USDA to Measure Feral Swine Damage in the Southeast

The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is conducting a Feral Swine Damage survey to measure the costs of feral swine damage to crop operations. The survey is conducted in cooperation with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) – Wildlife Services.

In an effort to obtain the most accurate data, NASS will reach out to more than 11,000 producers across the U.S. between June and August, including over 3,400 producers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.

The USDA APHIS National Wildlife Research Center states that feral swine exist in at least 31 states, and the nationwide population is estimated at approximately 6 million animals. Feral swine damage pastures, agricultural crops, lawns, landscaping, and natural areas, due to feeding, rooting, wallowing, grazing, and trampling activities. This survey focuses specifically on damage to corn, soybeans, wheat, rice, peanuts, and sorghum.

“Completing your survey will help us understand the impact that feral swine or wild hogs have on crops across the country,” said Anthony Prillaman, Director of the NASS Southern Regional Field Office. The results of this survey will help provide a foundation for feral swine research.

NASS recommends responding onlineusing the new and convenient “Respondent Portal.” On the portal, you can complete your surveys and track upcoming surveys. Respondents can also complete their questionnaire and return it by mail. If NASS does not hear back from those who are sent surveys by July 13, 2022, a representative may contact you to arrange a telephone interview.

The information provided by producers will be used for statistical purposes only. In accordance with federal law, ensuring the confidentiality of all responses and that no individual respondent or operation can be identified.

Operators who receive this survey should complete it by August 12, 2022. If you have questions, contact the NASS Southern Regional Field Office (800) 253-4419.