The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report, revealing a 1% increase in the U.S. hog and pig inventory compared to December 2023. As of December 1, 2024, there were 75.8 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms, showing a slight decrease from September 1, 2024.
Key findings from the report include:
Market hogs accounted for 69.8 million of the total inventory, while 6.00 million were kept for breeding.
Between September and November 2024, 35.2 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms, a 2% increase from the same period last year.
The average number of pigs weaned per litter from September through November 2024 was 11.92.
Farrowing intentions for the coming months:
- 2.93 million sows between December 2024 and February 2025
- 2.95 million sows between March 2025 and May 2025
State-wise inventory leaders:
- Iowa: 24.6 million head
- Minnesota: 9.50 million head
- North Carolina: 8.20 million head
The report's data was collected from 6,046 operators across the nation during the first half of December, using various methods including online submissions, mail, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.
This comprehensive survey provides valuable insights into the current state of the U.S. swine industry, indicating a slight growth in the overall hog population and steady production levels.
