Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Ala.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and a group of Senate colleagues have introduced the Feral Swine Eradication Act, a bipartisan measure aimed at permanently extending a federal program designed to combat the growing threat posed by feral swine to agriculture, ecosystems, and public health.
The legislation seeks to build upon the Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program (FSCP), which was initially authorized under the 2018 Farm Bill. The FSCP is a joint effort between the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to control feral swine populations through removal efforts, land restoration, and technical and financial assistance to affected producers. Since its inception, pilot projects under the FSCP have been implemented in ten states.
Feral swine populations have become a growing concern in several parts of the country, particularly in the Southeast. In Alabama, it is estimated that more than 255,000 feral hogs roam all 67 counties, contributing to over $50 million in annual agricultural damage. The animals are known to destroy crops, trample farmland, and pose risks to livestock, native wildlife, and water quality.
Senator Britt emphasized the importance of a permanent solution, stating, “The Feral Swine Eradication Act would establish a permanent program to eliminate this threat.” She highlighted the estimated economic toll on Alabama farmers and expressed continued support for those working in the agricultural sector.
Senator Cornyn also underscored the impact of feral hogs on farming communities in Texas and beyond. “Feral hogs can inflict serious economic and environmental damage… This legislation would support our farmers, ranchers, and producers… by promoting removal and restoration efforts to mitigate the risk posed by this invasive species,” he said.
In addition to legislative efforts, Britt has backed federal funding aimed at managing feral swine populations. The Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations package included support for the National Feral Swine Damage Management Program and efforts to develop new strategies to address the issue.
The introduction of the Feral Swine Eradication Act aligns with ongoing concerns from agricultural and environmental stakeholders across multiple states. The bill has drawn attention as an effort to institutionalize a long-term federal response to an invasive species that continues to threaten farmland and rural economies.
The legislation now awaits consideration by the Senate Agriculture Committee.
