From 1960 to 2015, pig farmers have improved to use 75% less land, 25% less water, 7% less energy, and 8% reduced carbon emissions to produce one pound of pork, according to the National Pork Board.
As the second largest pork producing state in the U.S., the Minnesota Pork Board shared their new vision on April 5 for more sustainable pork production, focusing on goals in the areas of environment, animal wellbeing, food safety, public health, people and communities.
“We know there are big challenges ahead when it comes to social, economic and climate issues. We’ve outlined the measurable goals and needed resources and support that will help farmers achieve those goals,” David Preisler, Minnesota Pork CEO, said in a release.
Through practices such as nutrient management plans and reduced tillage and cover crops, farmers can continue to raise pigs and provide a high-quality food, while also making the most productive use of resources and provide opportunities for rural communities, Minnesota Pork Board said.
Many of these practices have been put into action at New Fashion Pork.
By implementing soil management strategies, such as reduced tillage and cover crops, across Minnesota’s farmland, these emissions might be reduced by more than 10 million metric tons per year which is equivalent to removing more than 2.2 million passenger vehicles on the road, according to The Nature Conservancy (TNC).
“Soil health practices reduce carbon dioxide emissions and improve the health of our rivers, lakes and streams,” Leif Fixen, agricultural strategy manager of TNC in Minnesota, said in a release. “We’re excited to work with the Minnesota Pork Board and its farmers. We hope other producers in Minnesota follow their lead and take action to help address the climate challenge and protect our waters.”
The On-Farm Sustainability Reports program, funded by the Pork Checkoff, will be used to track improvement through on-farm data, provided to pig farmers to implement at no cost. Minnesota and all of U.S. pork production will use the information to establish baselines and contribute to the industry- wide tracking system.
Minnesota pig farmer, Randy Spronk, said, “The On-Farm Sustainability Reports provide metrics that are third-party verified and can track progress at the industry level, while also giving farmers individualized insights that help them make better decisions specific to their farm for the future of pork production.”
More from Farm Journal’s PORK:
The Proof is in the Data, Minnesota Pig Farmer Says
Pig Farmers Commit to Sustainability: Here’s the Proof
Sustainability and the Pork Industry: Make Money, Save Money, Save Time
It’s Time to Get on the Bus: National Pork Board Unveils Sustainability Goals
