Stories and Perspectives from the Farm By Wanda Patsche

🌽 Planting Season Update

The weather lately has been picture-perfect—sunny skies, mid-70s temperatures, and, best of all, minimal wind (a rare treat here in Minnesota!). Last week I tried attending my granddaughter’s track meet, but with gusty winds and 50-degree temps, I didn’t last long.

Right now, we’re wrapping up our corn planting and expect to switch to soybeans tomorrow if the weather holds. Once fieldwork is complete, I’ll finally get to focus on my garden, which always takes a backseat during planting season.

📉 Tariffs and Farm Economics: What We’re Really Seeing

I’ve received a few media inquiries about how tariffs are affecting our farm. I want to share our honest experience—not as a political statement, but to give perspective.

At this stage, tariffs have not directly impacted us. We’re on hog contracts, and the grain markets have remained relatively stable, though low. However, costs have increased almost everywhere else—from property taxes and insurance to supplies and equipment repairs.

Feed costs are up slightly, and we’re definitely feeling the sting at the pump: gas here in Minnesota is $3.29 a gallon (compared to $1.89 just a few years ago).

Do we expect tariffs to have an impact eventually? Possibly. But at this point, there’s no clear effect on our operation—just a general trend of rising costs across the board.

🐖 12 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Raising Pigs

Over the years, people have asked me many questions about raising pigs. Here are the top 12:

1. How many pigs are raised in the U.S.?
   Over 235 million pigs were raised in 2017 across more than 64,000 farms. Iowa leads in production, followed by North Carolina and Minnesota.

2. What’s the gestation period and average litter size?
   3 months, 3 weeks, and 3 days. Sows typically birth 10–14 piglets per litter.

3. What do piglets weigh at birth and weaning?
   About 3 lbs at birth and 13–14 lbs by the time they are weaned at 3 weeks.

4. How long to market weight?
   It takes 5.5–6 months to reach 270–280 lbs, thanks to genetics, nutrition, and management.

5. Are pigs given hormones?
   No. Hormones for growth are illegal in pigs—period.

6. Are pigs given antibiotics?
   Only when needed. All pork sold is antibiotic-free due to strict withdrawal periods.

7. What do pigs eat?
   Mostly corn and soybean meal (95% of their diet), along with minerals and vitamins.

8. Are pigs raised on factory farms?
   No. Over 97% of pig farms are family-owned. The term “factory farm” is misleading.

9. What is a corporate farm?
   Many family farms are incorporated for legal reasons. They’re still family-run.

10. Is outdoor raising healthier?
    No system is perfect. What matters most is the quality of care and management.

11. Is raising pigs sustainable?
    Yes. Manure is recycled as fertilizer, and farmers follow nutrient management plans. Other sustainability efforts include disease prevention and animal welfare certification programs.

12. What are some pig by-products?
    Items like heart valves, insulin, suede, gelatin, antifreeze, adhesives, and even crayons come from pigs.

🌤 Final Thoughts

As we enjoy a beautiful stretch of spring weather, I appreciate your interest and support. Farming isn’t just work—it’s a way of life. Thanks for following along.

Wanda Patsche
Welcome, Minnesota