October brings bright fall colors and trick-or-treating, but the autumn month also celebrates an important Illinois commodity – pork.
Illinois ranks fourth in the nation in hog production, and according to the most recent Census of Agriculture, the sector contributed $1.5 billion to the state economy in 2012.
National Pork Month began as a way to promote the product when the animals came to market. Today, the month also focuses on the nation’s hardworking pig farmers and the continued environmental efforts they make. A study conducted by clean energy development company, the Camco Group, shows U.S. pig farmers have nearly doubled production during the past 50 years, while cutting water usage by 41 percent and reducing their carbon footprint by 35 percent.
Learn about the events and promotions happening throughout the month at ilpork.com.
