stock rate for pastured pigs - Ask Extension
What is the average stocking rate for pastured pigs in forested pens for rotational grazing based on number of pigs per acre. Based on the soil condi...
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stock rate for pastured pigs #923736
Asked January 18, 2026, 1:44 AM EST
What is the average stocking rate for pastured pigs in forested pens for rotational grazing based on number of pigs per acre. Based on the soil conditions, I'm allocating 4-5 pigs per acre for two months and them move them to the next acre so the first acre regenerates. I would like to increase the stock rate to 20 pigs / acre but wondering if that is a reasonable objective.
I trying to improve the soil conditions and cover crops within the forests to reduce the cycle times but wondering if there are any stats that I can leverage as a guideline.
Linn County Oregon
Expert Response
Hello,
I can't give an exact stocking rate. There are so many factors that can affect stocking rate that are unique to your site, the time of year, and how rough your pigs are on the soil and vegetation. Each site is unique!
In general, for silvopasture, they recommend 10-20 pigs, but I think the best thing to do is to experiment, start lighter than you think, and document with pictures and notes so that you can compare the effects over time. Note the vegetation before and after, the amount of weeds, see if it increases, and of course, the amount of soil disturbance.
NCAT/ATTRA has an article summarizing studies they did with silvopasture, with tips and suggestions that you might find helpful.
https://attra.ncat.org/working-the-woods-with-pigs-practical-tips-for-silvopasture-success/
I can't give an exact stocking rate. There are so many factors that can affect stocking rate that are unique to your site, the time of year, and how rough your pigs are on the soil and vegetation. Each site is unique!
In general, for silvopasture, they recommend 10-20 pigs, but I think the best thing to do is to experiment, start lighter than you think, and document with pictures and notes so that you can compare the effects over time. Note the vegetation before and after, the amount of weeds, see if it increases, and of course, the amount of soil disturbance.
NCAT/ATTRA has an article summarizing studies they did with silvopasture, with tips and suggestions that you might find helpful.
https://attra.ncat.org/working-the-woods-with-pigs-practical-tips-for-silvopasture-success/
