Swine Production in Arkansas

Extension assists the swine industry through educational programs regarding waste management, 4-H swine projects, and feral hogs.

The decrease in number and size of swine operations in Arkansas depicts the change in the swine industry from small and medium sized independents to large contract swine operations. Current estimates indicate 95 percent or more of the swine in Arkansas are grown under contract. The contracting company supplies the hogs, feed, fieldmen for herd health and production management and a market for the hogs. Major work with swine has involved providing Extension agents and independent operators with information on health, feed ingredients, ration formulation and facilities.

Arkansas producers more than 1.8 million pigs annually. Arkansas Pork Production exceeds $80 million per year.

Resources

• Arkansas Pork Producers Association
• Protecting Swine from External Parasites
• AR 4-H Livestock Opportunities
• Feral Hogs and their Control
• PEDv
• Swine Influenza