Billion-Dollar Boar Problem: Lawmakers Debate Major Funding Boost to Combat Feral Swine
Feral hogs, numbering nearly 7 million across 35 U.S. states, inflict over $3.4 billion in annual damages. Lawmakers are now locked in a debate over significantly increasing federal funding for eradication efforts through the upcoming Farm Bill.
The short version
- Nearly 7 million feral hogs are estimated to roam 35 U.S. states, causing at least $3.4 billion in damages annually.
- The 2018 Farm Bill established the Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program (FSECP) with $75 million in funding.
- The U.S. House of Representatives proposed doubling FSECP funding to $150 million as part of the 2024 Farm Bill, while the Senate proposed maintaining it at $75 million.
- Senators Katie Britt and John Cornyn introduced the "Feral Swine Eradication Act" in April 2025, seeking to make the FSECP a permanent program.
- The Senate Agriculture Committee failed to pass the Farm Bill in August 2026 and plans another vote the week of September 14, 2026.
A destructive force numbering in the millions is ravaging agricultural lands and ecosystems across 35 U.S. states, costing the nation billions annually. Feral hogs, with a population estimated at nearly 7 million—roughly triple their total 40 years ago—are now the focus of a contentious legislative debate as lawmakers consider significantly boosting federal funding for eradication efforts.
While some discussions have floated the idea of tripling funds for the Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program (FSECP), the U.S. House of Representatives has specifically proposed doubling the program's allocation from $75 million to $150 million in the 2024 Farm Bill. The Senate, however, has so far proposed maintaining the FSECP's funding at its current $75 million level, setting up a clash over how aggressively to tackle the invasive species.
What is the Cost of the Feral Hog Problem?
These invasive mammals inflict an estimated $3.4 billion in damages each year, according to The Washington Post's June 2026 report. Their destructive behaviors extend beyond mere nuisance, impacting agriculture, natural habitats, and even human health. LandTrust, in March 2026, noted that agricultural damage alone surpasses $1.5 billion annually. Texas, a state heavily impacted, suffers over $500 million in damages each year, as stated by Texas Department of Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller in July 2025. Senator Katie Britt (R-AL) highlighted in April 2025 that Alabama experiences more than $50 million in annual damages from feral swine.
What Is Being Done About the Problem?
The FSECP, established under the 2018 Farm Bill, was initially funded with $75 million to manage the severe damage caused by feral swine. This pilot program focuses on surveillance, removal, disease monitoring, research, and fostering partnerships to control the spread. In July 2025, President Donald Trump's
Frequently asked questions
When will the Senate vote on Farm Bill funding for feral swine?
The Senate Agriculture Committee failed to pass the Farm Bill in August 2026 and plans to hold another vote the week of September 14, 2026, to try and move the bill forward.
How much damage do feral hogs cause annually?
Feral hogs are estimated to cause at least $3.4 billion in damages annually across the United States. This includes over $1.5 billion in agricultural damage, impacting crops, livestock, and infrastructure.
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