Factors Driving Sow Breeding Operations to Become Large

This study examines the influences of economic and non-economic variables on the size of U.S. sow breeding operations using a probit model. Data from a national survey of U.S. hog operations identifying two different size categories were used in this study. Findings indicate that factors such as operations located in Delta States, climate controlled facilities, specialized operation, breeding practices, and risk attitudes toward investments influence decisions to establish breeding operations with 500 or more sows. Producers located in Iowa were more likely to choose breeding operations with 499 or less sows.