Willow Lane Farm

Enter the Idaho Pasture Pig (or IPP)!

The IPP is a new breed that was first introduced in 2007 by Shelly & Gary Ferris.  The breed was formed by crossing the Berkshire with the Duroc (an excellent bacon breed currently listed by the Livestock Conservancy) and the Kunekune (a small, very short-snouted, and friendly breed with excellent meat qualities). 

According to the Idaho Pasture Pig Registry’s breed standard, “The overall conformation of the Idaho Pasture Pig should be a well proportioned pig with:  a medium width in the leg set, a wide back, noticeable shoulders, developed hams, and a overall, nicely proportioned head with a short - medium upturned snout.  Sows should mature at 250 - 300 pounds and the boars should mature at 300 - 400 pounds.”

Now compare the IPP on the right to the Berkshire pig on page 1.  See the difference?  In addition to dialing-up the cute factor in a huge way, the slightly upturned and wider snout, make the breed a real winner on pasture.

We were lucky enough to find a wonderful breeder in Conway (shout out to Heather at Grazing Hill Farm), from whom we purchased our first IPP gilts (young females).  Our fingers are crossed that we will also be able to acquire a quality boar later this spring from a different line.  (If you are so inclined, please send up your prayers/vibes/happy thoughts/hopes that the sow may have a big and healthy litter!)

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Photo Source:

• Idaho Pasture Pig: IPPR

Idaho Pasture Pig