Iowa Would be Decimated Without Pork — Pork Study Released

Growing up on a hog farm, I saw firsthand the hard work, dedication, and resilience it takes to run a hog operation. I also witnessed how integral pork farming is to our local economy and communities. A recent press release from the Iowa Pork Producers Association underscores this reality, revealing just how essential the pork industry is to Iowa’s economic vitality.

A Pillar of Iowa’s Economy

The study highlights that Iowa’s pork industry contributed a staggering $15.4 billion in value added to the state’s economy in 2024. This figure encompasses $9.9 billion from hog production, $3.9 billion from hog slaughter, and $1.5 billion from hog processing. The industry generated $40.5 billion in total sales, $8.0 billion in household income, and more than $2.7 billion in taxes, making it a cornerstone of Iowa’s financial structure.

Supporting 120,231 jobs across the state, the pork industry is a major employment driver in Iowa. Of these, hog production provides over 64,000 jobs, while hog slaughter and processing add another 39,000 and 16,000 jobs, respectively. These jobs are not just numbers; they represent the livelihoods of families, of which I once was. These people depend on the pork industry for their economic stability and wellbeing.

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Leading the Nation

Iowa maintains its status as the top pork-producing state, housing 33% of the U.S. hog inventory. In December 2023, the state set a record with 25 million hogs on its farms. In 2023 alone, hog cash receipts totaled $9.328 billion, representing 34.3% of the nation’s hog cash receipts and 22.9% of Iowa’s total cash receipts from all commodities.

The study also points out the sustainable practices employed by Iowa’s pig farmers. Pigs consume vast amounts of locally grown corn and soybeans, using 2,272,856 acres of corn and 1,514,892 acres of soybeans annually. This local consumption cycle reduces grain transportation costs and enhances environmental sustainability.

Additionally, hog manure — an often-overlooked byproduct — serves as a nutrient-rich fertilizer, boosting soil health and crop yields. This natural fertilization process reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, promoting an eco-friendly, self-sustaining agricultural cycle.

The Backbone of Iowa

The study, conducted by Decision Innovation Solutions, illustrates that without the pork industry, Iowa's economy would face severe challenges. The pork industry not only feeds millions across the world but also strengthens the fabric of Iowa’s economy and communities. For those of us who grew up amidst the smell of hogs and the hustle of farm life, this study is an essential reminder of the vital role pork farming plays in our state’s prosperity and growth.