USDA is conducting a survey to determine the feral swine impact on livestock operations.
This survey is much like the one the department did two years ago on the wild animal’s impact on crops. Last month, the Ag Statistics Service mailed 18,000 surveys to producers, mostly in southern states, but Oklahoma and California as well.
USDA explains how the data will be used.
According to USDA economist Sophia McKee, “If we have a full picture of all the costs that are inflicted by feral swine then it’s easier for us to ask for money to Congress to control the pigs.”
The surveys are due next week.
Related:
USDA’s new series looks to educate the public on feral swine damage
USDA invests $11 million to combat feral hog problem
Experts worry the U.S. feral pig population is quickly getting out of hand
Feral pigs cause $150 million in yearly damage in GA