Sustainable Pig Farming Before It Was Cool
North Dakota pig farmer Todd Erickson says he takes enormous pride working in a sustainable industry.
“This might sound cliché, but I enjoy people, pigs and the planet,” Erickson says. “During my career, I have worked with many great people. From my start at North Dakota State University over 30 years ago to my present position at North Dakota Sow Cooperative, I’ve taken great pride in what I do. As farmers we have been working in a sustainable field long before it became cool to be sustainable.”
Today, Erickson serves as the general manager of North Dakota Sow Cooperative Management, LLC, a 12,500 head farrow-to-wean farm that markets 300,000 pigs annually.
“I enjoy raising animals,” he says. “It’s challenging and rewarding at the same time.”
Erickson shares his perspective on the future and his role in serving the pork industry.
Q. Why did you choose to say yes to serving on the National Pork Board?
A. It is an honor to represent all U.S. pig farmers on the National Pork Board. During my first term, I enjoyed meeting fellow pig farmers from around the country. I believe It is very important to understand how Checkoff dollars are being used and even more important, to have a voice in how they are spent.
Q. What is the greatest opportunity ahead for producers in 2021?
A. I have always believed our greatest opportunity is to sell more pork both domestically and abroad. Over the last few years, doing this has changed drastically. The National Pork Board has not only embraced the use of technology in promoting pork, but also in sharing about pork’s safety, nutrition and sustainability in production.
Q. From your perspective, what is the biggest obstacle facing pork producers today?
A. Foreign animal disease is the biggest obstacle facing producers today in my opinion. Keeping foreign animal diseases out of the U.S. will require everyone working together. It will take collaboration from people and businesses that aren't used to working together. Our current industry will not survive if we don't get this right.
Q. What leadership experiences have you had to prepare you for this role?
A. I am active in the North Dakota Pork Council and served on the board from 2003 to 2012. I was president of the organization in 2010 and 2011. I am also a graduate of the Pork Leadership Academy and serve as a PQA+ advisor.
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