The Profitability of Pastured Pigs

June 4, 2019 Announcements

Want to learn the basics of raising pastured pigs and marketing pork products? Take the new six-week “Getting Started with Pastured Pigs” online course with the Cornell Small Farms Program.

Getting Started with Pastured Pigs
November 7 – December 19, 2018
Webinars on Wednesday Evenings
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. EST

Pigs can function as a profitable standalone enterprise or can be integrated into your existing farm structure to provide a variety of products and make use of marginal lands that would otherwise go unused. Pigs are also ideal for turning agricultural wastes such as spent grain, whey, or seconds into a valuable product, and with proper management they can improve the land where they are kept.

Online courses are led by expert farmers and extension educators, who guide students through the latest research-based information to help improve efficiency and increase profit on small farms. Students connect with other farmers, work on farm plans, and gain practical tips without leaving their home. Course content can be accessed anywhere with a high-speed internet connection.

Through this course participants will:

  • Learn the basics of raising pigs. We will cover a variety of important aspects of the production topics including feed, water, shelter, fencing, and health care.
  • Understand how integrating pigs into your operation can generate profit from marginal lands, various on farm wastes, and multi-species grazing.
  • Develop a marketing plan that will take into account the rules and regulations in New York State (students from other states will need to research parallel laws in their area) regarding the sale of live animals, animal products, and value-added products.
  • Understand the common perils and pitfalls that affect pastured pig growers.
  • Outline a basic production plan for pigs on your particular property including fencing set up, water set up, and integrating the animals into your existing on-farm enterprises.

Register Now

Registration closes on Sunday, October 28 at 11:59 p.m. EST.

If you still have questions, you can contact our online course managers: