Farm Credit Services of America has committed to establishing an endowed faculty position in swine production in the South Dakota State University College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. SDSU Extension Swine Specialist Bob Thaler says they are excited about the $1.5 million gift announced this week at the South Dakota Pork Congress in Sioux Falls.
He says this is the first endowed position in swine production in the nation and is a reflection of the recent significant growth in the swine industry as South Dakota now ranks eighth in the nation for the number of finishing pigs.
Thaler says the endowment will support research and extension programs at SDSU and help support the future of the swine industry.
He says pork production provides an excellent opportunity for young people to be able to return to the family farm. The gift is a continuation of the legacy of the Swine Education and Research Facility built by producers and allied industry partners.
