The $2.5 Billion Hog Problem

Feral swine cause at least $2.5 billion in damage a year, and an estimated 6 million to 9 million roam the country.

The damage

Hogs root up planted fields, trample crops, eat turkey eggs and fawns, and foul streams.

The response

USDA started a national program in 2014, and the 2018 Farm Bill added $75 million for pilot projects. Feral swine have been removed from 11 states, but Texas alone still holds about 3 million.

Sources

• Claims Journal (AP): Feral hog control, eight years and $2.5 billion in damage a year
• AASV: APHIS national program to combat feral swine