There are five times as many pigs as there are people in Iowa. Let’s find out more about them.
The pig dates back 40 million years to fossils which indicate that wild pig-like animals roamed forests and swamps in Europe and Asia. By 4900 B.C. pigs were domesticated in China, and were being raised in Europe by 1500 B.C. On the insistence of Queen Isabella, Christopher Columbus took eight pigs on his voyage to Cuba in 1493. But it is Hernando de Soto who could be dubbed “the father of the American pork industry.” He landed with America’s first 13 pigs at Tampa Bay, Florida in 1539. (more)
Some may think it’s a dirty topic, but Iowa farmers realize the value of hog manure, or as we refer to it – swine nutrients. Swine nutrients contain the essential elements (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) that are needed to replenish the soil for next year’s corn and soybean crops. Iowa ranks number one in corn and number two in soybean production. The largest market for this grain just happens to be Iowa hogs! Every pig raised in Iowa results in an additional $2.75 in local tax revenue that directly benefits that county’s communities and schools. Over 25 million hogs marketed a year means almost $70 million is funneled into rural communities! (more)
Iowa has a Pork Queen
Pigs at the Zoo
The Iowa Purity Test
Know your Cuts of Pork
No sausage or pepperoni Pizza without pigs.