Optimizing Manure as a Nutrient Source

Swine manure is an economical alternative to commercial fertilizer, especially with ongoing supply chain disruptions. Using manure more strategically this fall can help decrease overall commercial fertilizer costs.

Pig farmers have always been committed to safeguarding and nurturing natural resources now and for future generations. One of the many ways pig farmers manage natural resources on the farm is through nutrient application plans. This includes deciding whether to use manure, commercial fertilizer or a combination of these tools.

Sustainability means doing what’s right for people, pigs, and the planet by following the long-standing...

Pork Checkoff: Understanding PRRS 1-4-4

The swine industry is battling a tough strain of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus – PRRS 1-4-4 Lineage 1C. It is an unusual strain because infections peak in spring/summer, as well as fall/winter months, compared to other strains that typically only peak in fall/winter months. However, pork producers have the prevention tools to combat the pathogen and prevent spread, including biosecurity and research.

For the October Pork Checkoff producer webinar, animal health experts presented guidance, biosecurity considerations and recent research on PRRS. Speakers included:

- Pat Bane, Illinois pork producer...

Study Validates Pork Industry’s Biosecurity Measures Against African Swine Fever

On the heels of the announcement of African swine fever (ASF) confirmed in the Dominican Republic, a new study has found no major areas have been overlooked to prevent the introduction of ASF to the U.S. The year-long study was funded by the Pork Checkoff and Swine Health Information Center (SHIC).

“While we are encouraged by the report’s overall assessment of the industry’s progress in reducing the risk of ASF introduction into the country, we know that there’s always...

What ASF in the Dominican Republic Means for U.S. Producers

During the August Pork Checkoff producer webinar, guest speakers shared how their agencies collaborate domestically and internationally. Speakers included:

- Dr. Rosemary Sifford from USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
- John Sagle from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Al Wulfekuhle, Iowa pork producer, board member of National Pork Board (NPB) and chair of the National Swine Disease Council, also provided...

Animal Agriculture Organizations Launch Ambitious New Protein PACT

Twelve organizations representing farmers and companies who make the vast majority of America’s meat, poultry, and dairy, as well as animal feed and ingredients, today (Monday) unveiled the Protein PACT for the People, Animals, and Climate of Tomorrow - the first joint initiative of its kind designed to accelerate momentum and verify progress toward global sustainable development goals across all animal protein sectors.

The Protein PACT has been submitted to the UN Food Systems Summit as a sustainability game changer, and sustainable livestock and poultry production will be featured...

In-Store Research Focuses on Ground Pork Placement

National Pork Board and partners launched a Checkoff-funded research project to understand how ground pork’s placement in the meat case influences purchases.

Making a Difference in the Meat Case

Ground pork continues to grow in popularity with consumers. National Pork Board (NPB) launched a Checkoff-funded test and learn research project with Hy-Vee and Iowa Pork Producers Association. The goal is to understand how ground pork’s placement in the meat case can impact and encourage additional purchases.

Retailers Benefit from Higher and More Frequent Spending in their Stores...