The 2024 Farm Bill and the Fight Against Feral Pigs

The Farm Bill and the War on Wild Pigs

If you're a landowner battling the destructive impact of feral hogs, you know the financial sting all too well. Those hungry invaders can devour newly planted fields and even prey on young livestock, costing you hundreds, even thousands, of dollars. But there's hope on the horizon.

The upcoming Farm Bill could be a game-changer in this ongoing struggle. This sweeping legislation has far-reaching effects on agriculture and conservation, including measures to combat invasive swine.

Pig Brig believes in empowering landowners with knowledge, so let's break down the Farm Bill, how it works, and what it could mean for reclaiming control and protecting your hard-earned profits.

Understanding the 2024 Farm Bill

The Farm Bill isn't just another piece of legislation; it's a massive, multi-year law that shapes everything from farm income support and trade to food assistance and environmental protection. Because of its broad scope, it usually enjoys bipartisan support. So, the debate isn't about whether it should pass but how the funds should be allocated.

The last Farm Bill, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, ran through 2023. With no new bill ready, we're currently operating on an extension, which means no new program funding.

Crafting a New Farm Bill

The House and Senate Agriculture Committees draft their own versions to get a new Farm Bill passed. The House has already released theirs, titled the "Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024." The Senate is still working on theirs, tentatively called "The Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act."

Once each committee approves its version, the full House and Senate vote on them. Then, a conference committee works out the differences between the two bills, creating a final version that both chambers vote on again. If it passes, it goes to the President for signature.

The 2024 Farm Bill: 19th in a Long Line

Once passed, this will be the 19th Farm Bill in U.S. history. The first one, the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933, was part of the New Deal and focused on ensuring farmers could make a decent living. Over the years, the Farm Bill has grown to include programs for soil conservation, sustainable agriculture, wetland protection, and food assistance, reflecting its importance to diverse stakeholders.

Who's Backing the Bill? Broad Support Across the Board

The Farm Bill's impact is felt across many industries, so support comes from various groups. Based on the current drafts, we're seeing endorsements from conservation organizations like Ducks Unlimited and Pheasants Forever, agricultural groups like the National Cattleman's Beef Association, the National Corn Growers Association, and even the National Pork Producers Council. It's clear this bill matters to a lot of people.

Current Feral Hog Control Programs

The 2018 Farm Bill included $75 million for the Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program. This program focused on assessing damage, developing control methods, restoring damaged land, and providing financial assistance to affected producers. It was a significant step, but more needs to be done.

Feral hogs wreak havoc on agriculture, consuming and trampling crops, contaminating water sources with their waste, and spreading diseases to livestock and humans. Their rooting and wallowing behavior damages valuable farmland, irrigation systems, and infrastructure. The economic toll is staggering, with estimates reaching billions of dollars annually.

A Renewed Focus on Feral Swine Eradication

The House and Senate drafts for the 2024 Farm Bill include funding for a second Feral Swine Eradication and Control Program. The Senate proposes keeping the funding at $75 million, while the House proposes doubling it to $150 million.

This is great news for landowners battling feral hog infestations. Increased funding means more resources for research, control efforts, and assistance programs.

The Road Ahead: Debates and Deadlines

While there's broad support for the Farm Bill, plenty of debate remains, mostly around funding levels and priorities. Both sides have strong opinions, but everyone agrees the bill needs to pass. Whether they can reach agreements in time for a 2024 passage remains to be seen.

The 2024 Farm Bill is a critical piece of legislation that will shape the future of agriculture and conservation, including the fight against feral hogs. Pig Brig will continue to monitor developments closely and keep you informed. In the meantime, explore our effective and humane hog trapping solutions to protect your land today.

Remember, staying informed and advocating for your needs is key. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against feral hogs.