Latest News From Environmental Resource Management

Data Makes the Difference: PIC Seeks Answers to Environmental Impact of Genetics
Data Makes the Difference: PIC Seeks Answers to Environmental Impact of Genetics

"I can't tell you if I can fit a metric ton of carbon equivalents in my front pocket," says Chris Hostetler. Carbon is not visible, so data is critical to back up carbon asset claims for innovations coming to market.

How Valuing Carbon Could Open Doors for Pork Producers
How Valuing Carbon Could Open Doors for Pork Producers

Pork producers often think about meat as the only commodity they produce. But Chris Hostetler at the National Pork Board argues they produce so much more and deserve to see benefits for their efforts.

Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up About Pork’s Advantage
Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up About Pork’s Advantage

The pork industry needs to share the good news of what producers are doing on the farm more, especially around the topic of sustainability.

How to Manage Small Swine Farm Manure in the Summer
How to Manage Small Swine Farm Manure in the Summer

Here are six best practices to keep manure in check for your small swine operation in the summer season.

Aidan Connolly
The Impact of Apple on Pork Producers

Apple's influence has undeniably shaped consumer expectations across industries, including the pork industry. However, the reality pork producers work in is far removed from the seamless experience provided by Apple.

EPA’s WOTUS Rule Still Problematic for Farmers, Formica Says
EPA’s WOTUS Rule Still Problematic for Farmers, Formica Says

In a hearing addressing the implementation of the WOTUS rule by the Army Corps of Engineers and EPA, NPPC chief legal strategist Michael Formica expressed ongoing concerns about the rule's implications for producers.

SEC Spares Farms from Wall Street Rules, AFBF Says
SEC Spares Farms from Wall Street Rules, AFBF Says

The SEC voted on its final climate disclosure removal and removed the Scope 3 reporting requirement, that would have required public companies, including farmers, to report greenhouse gas emissions of their supply chain.

NPPC Says There’s ‘No Legitimate Reason’ for Farm Emissions Reporting Rule
NPPC Says There’s ‘No Legitimate Reason’ for Farm Emissions Reporting Rule

EPA is trying to reinstate the reporting requirements under the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act (EPCRA). Under EPCRA, livestock farmers would be required to estimate the emissions of certain gases.

Why EPA Needs to Scrap Proposed Rodent Rule Now
Why EPA Needs to Scrap Proposed Rodent Rule Now

Here's why a coalition of poultry and livestock groups filed comments with the EPA about its proposed regulation of rodenticides to control rodents on farms.

Barriers and Opportunities in Sustainability Data Collection Throughout Pork Supply Chain
Barriers and Opportunities in Sustainability Data Collection Throughout Pork Supply Chain

Farm Journal’s Trust In Food and The Sustainability Consortium are partnering to gather insights into the vital role data collection and sharing plays in measuring sustainability in the pork supply chain.  

Farmland Values Are Holding Up, But There Are Hints of a Reset At a New Level
Farmland Values Are Holding Up, But There Are Hints of a Reset At a New Level

While resilient farmland prices were the theme in 2023 and farmers were in the driver's seat in most sales, Jim Rothermich with Iowa Appraisal has recently noticed a couple changes in the market.

Iowa Study: Soil Conservation Practices On The Rise
Iowa Study: Soil Conservation Practices On The Rise

The survey uses records from ag retailers to measure the use of cover crops, nutrient management and conservation tillage and no-till by Iowa growers.

Navigate Swine Winter Manure Application to Maximize Fertility, Protect Water Quality
Navigate Swine Winter Manure Application to Maximize Fertility, Protect Water Quality

As winter approaches, the challenges associated with the application of manure become more pronounced. Adopting best practices that maximize nutrient utilization and safeguard our water resources is crucial.

North Carolina Appeals Court Upholds Waste-to-Energy Plans on Hog Farms
North Carolina Appeals Court Upholds Waste-to-Energy Plans on Hog Farms

The unanimous ruling by a three-judge panel rejected challenges from environmental groups, emphasizing that the permit applications were appropriately scrutinized before approval.

Minnesota Prepares for Potential Wild Pig Invasion
Minnesota Prepares for Potential Wild Pig Invasion

When a group of pigs escaped from a farm in Marshall County in northwestern Minnesota in 2016, it wasn't long before a sow wandered into the West Valley Wildlife Management Area, where she gave birth to several piglets.

Treatment Strategies and Safety Reminders for Swine Manure Foaming
Treatment Strategies and Safety Reminders for Swine Manure Foaming

Management of swine manure demands constant attention. As manure pumping and application continue, safety and effective treatment strategies are essential to address the rising concern of swine manure foaming on farms.

Wild Pig Populations in U.S. Can Be Managed
Wild Pig Populations in U.S. Can Be Managed

Recent conservation efforts have proven effective at controlling wild pig populations in the Southeastern U.S., according to new research.

Top 10 States with the Largest Wild Pig Populations
Top 10 States with the Largest Wild Pig Populations

Wild hog populations are continuing to spread and move north in the U.S. As one of the most destructive invasive animal species in the U.S., the significant increase in the wild hog population is a great concern.

Pass Bill C-234 Quickly, Canadian Pork Producers Urge
Pass Bill C-234 Quickly, Canadian Pork Producers Urge

The Canadian Pork Council says it's critical that the government makes Bill C-234 law quickly. Here's why Canadian pork producers are behind this legislation.

Anaerobic Digesters Transform Proverbial Sow’s Ear into Silk Purse
Anaerobic Digesters Transform Proverbial Sow’s Ear into Silk Purse

When the workday is over for Wen Murphy, more often than not, he continues to think about his job and what he will leave for his family members and others who will someday walk the path of those who went before him.

From Soil to Plate: Cover Crops Initiative Aims to Boost Soil Health and Your Bottom Line
From Soil to Plate: Cover Crops Initiative Aims to Boost Soil Health and Your Bottom Line

“The more links that we can link together to form a chain, just like on a farm, the longer that chain is, the more that we can do with it,” explains Jamie Burr with National Pork Board.

A New Toxicant Tool Decreases Feral Hog Populations in Texas
A New Toxicant Tool Decreases Feral Hog Populations in Texas

Explosive numbers, deadly destruction, devastating economic impact. Is it possible to control the spiraling feral hog population in Texas? A new study shows a warfarin-based toxicant could help.

Jen Kendrick-NC Pork Council
5 Things I Learned About Hog Farming from Aerial Surveillance

When an environmental group announced it was taking people on an aerial surveillance of Eastern North Carolina to “document and expose” animal feeding operations, Jen Kendrick decided to do the same. Here's what she saw.

The Maschhoffs
Embracing a Refreshed Purpose and Core Values

In a world where the pork industry faces an array of challenges, companies strive to balance sustainable growth with social responsibility. Here's what The Maschhoffs are focused on.

Livestock Producers Applaud EPA’s Denial of Activist CAFO Petitions
Livestock Producers Applaud EPA’s Denial of Activist CAFO Petitions

The EPA has rejected two petitions seeking stricter regulation of animal feeding operations, and will be establishing a federal advisory committee to study the matter. 

A Sport Utility Vehicle for Disease: Wild Pigs Wreak Havoc in Louisiana
A Sport Utility Vehicle for Disease: Wild Pigs Wreak Havoc in Louisiana

"Basically, a pig has a 3-inch environmental vacuum on the front of his face. Anything in front of it is going down. A lot of that damage goes unseen by the public eye,” says William Futch in Feral Swine in America.

Are You Skeptical About Sharing Your On-Farm Data?
Are You Skeptical About Sharing Your On-Farm Data?

For Minnesota pork producer Gordon Spronk, the hesitation is understandable, but the impact far exceeds any questions he initially had when Spronk Brothers began sharing data on their pig farm and cropping operations.

Poof! Why the Disappearing Act of Feed Wastage Needs Attention
Poof! Why the Disappearing Act of Feed Wastage Needs Attention

It’s always hard to prove the disappearance of something, says National Pork Board's Chris Hostetler. But just because you can’t always see it happen, doesn’t mean it’s not. Feed wastage and spillage is a great example.

Here's 3 Things to Know About Purchasing Farmland Now 
Here's 3 Things to Know About Purchasing Farmland Now 

Paul Schadegg, with Farmers National Company, shares his perspective on agricultural real estate demand, the impact of interest rates on the market and the outlook for land values later this year.

5 Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away This Summer
5 Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away This Summer

Warmer temperatures and rain means mosquito season is underway in many parts of the country. With an increase in mosquitoes comes an increase in bites. Here are five tips to protect your home from mosquitoes.

3 Things to Know About Purchasing Farmland Now 
3 Things to Know About Purchasing Farmland Now 

Paul Schadegg, with Farmers National Company, shares his perspective on agricultural real estate demand, the impact of interest rates on the market and the outlook for land values later this year.

Feral Swine Eradication Program Should Be Permanent, Senators Urge
Feral Swine Eradication Program Should Be Permanent, Senators Urge

U.S. Senators introduced the Feral Swine Eradication Act on May 16, which would extend and make permanent a pilot program to safeguard public health, agriculture and local ecosystems against the threat of feral swine.

Is Missouri’s Feral Hog Population on the Decline?
Is Missouri’s Feral Hog Population on the Decline?

Missouri's efforts to decrease its feral hog population is working. Here's a look at what Missouri is doing to fight this invasive nightmare.

Swine Manure for Spring Planting
Swine Manure for Spring Planting

Swine manure application in the fall means nutrients for spring-planted crops and soil nutrient building for nutrients applied beyond crop needs. Have you accounted for all available nutrients in your fertilizer plans?

Global Advocate for U.S. Pork: Producer Shares Farm Impact Story
Global Advocate for U.S. Pork: Producer Shares Farm Impact Story

Minnesota farmer and National Pork Board board member, Dale Stevermer, advocated for U.S. Pork at the G7 Agriculture Ministers' Meeting in Japan using his personal Pork Cares Farm Impact Report. 

What Holds Farmers Back from Trying New Farming Practices?
What Holds Farmers Back from Trying New Farming Practices?

“This is how we’ve always done it.” This is just one of the many excuses Nate Huntley hears about why farmers are skeptical about cover crops, trying new manure application or lowering carbon emissions.

Why These Two Unconventional Farmers are Turning Heads in Iowa
Why These Two Unconventional Farmers are Turning Heads in Iowa

Wild, unconventional, early adopters. It’s not uncommon for Nate Huntley or Josh Nelson to turn a few heads in Wright County, Iowa.

Jennifer Shike
When Talent and Passion Collide

When you're a storyteller, you often get to hang behind the scenes to tell someone else's story. It’s a safe place because it’s not about you — it’s about them. It’s less risky and more predictable.

Pig Farmers Don’t Just Talk the Talk
Pig Farmers Don’t Just Talk the Talk

The meaning of sustainability has been interpreted by many. Abby Kornegay says the most critical point to understand is that sustainability is a continuous journey, rather than a destination. Here's why.

Former Tyson Leader Named First Chief Sustainability Officer for National Pork Board
Former Tyson Leader Named First Chief Sustainability Officer for National Pork Board

Jamie Burr, an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience in sustainability and environmental program leadership, is the National Pork Board's first Chief Sustainability Officer. Here's a look at what's ahead.

Wisconsin DNR Rejects Permit Request for 26,000-Hog Facility
Wisconsin DNR Rejects Permit Request for 26,000-Hog Facility

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources rejected Cumberland LLC's proposal to build a 26,000-hog facility in Burnett County in northern Wisconsin due to incomplete application materials.

A Multidimensional Approach to Sustainability in the Swine Industry
A Multidimensional Approach to Sustainability in the Swine Industry

There are many complex interactions between the animals, air, water, soil and energy in the swine industry. Because of this, our approach to sustainability is multidimensional, says NC State's Suzanne Leonard.

$500,000 Grant Seeks to Improve Air Quality on Pig Farms
$500,000 Grant Seeks to Improve Air Quality on Pig Farms

Particulate matter at high concentrations can affect the health of animals and people. Although the problem is well known, researchers say the exact concentrations within and outside of swine barns is poorly understood.

Fact Sheet Aids Producers in Using a New Pork Industry Sustainability Tool
Fact Sheet Aids Producers in Using a New Pork Industry Sustainability Tool

Pork producers play a fundamental role in environmental stewardship as they continue to prioritize sustainable production practices. Here's how a new tool can help.

Judge Rejects Attack on Clean Energy: Victory for Hog Farmers, Smithfield Says
Judge Rejects Attack on Clean Energy: Victory for Hog Farmers, Smithfield Says

A judge rejected a challenge to a general permit issued by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality authorizing the construction and operation of methane digesters for animal waste management. 

Here's How to Make Tough Talks Easier
Here's How to Make Tough Talks Easier

Little steps can ease frustration and improve communication on your farm.

Controversial U.S. Cull Kills 19 Feral Cattle in New Mexico Wilderness Area
Controversial U.S. Cull Kills 19 Feral Cattle in New Mexico Wilderness Area

Nineteen feral cattle have been shot from a helicopter by federal employees in a New Mexico wilderness area in a cull opposed by ranchers and criticized by the state’s governor.

Minnesota Pork Board Honors Adam Barka with Environmental Steward Award
Minnesota Pork Board Honors Adam Barka with Environmental Steward Award

The Minnesota Pork Board recognizes this year’s Environmental Steward of the Year award recipient, Adam Barka, who is passionate about thriving rural communities and the people within them.

Taxing Farming is Vital for Denmark's Climate Target, Government Adviser Says
Taxing Farming is Vital for Denmark's Climate Target, Government Adviser Says

Denmark should aim to reduce beef and dairy production by levying an emissions tax on farming of $108 per metric ton in order to reach its ambitious climate targets, the government's independent advisor says.

Variety Meats: Unsung Hero of U.S. Pork Exports in 2022
Variety Meats: Unsung Hero of U.S. Pork Exports in 2022

Carcass utilization is a key profitability figure that needs more focus, says Bob Ruth, a Pennsylvania pork producer recently retired from Clemens Food Group. It may even be more important than pounds sold.