NPPC Tackles Clean Water Act, Rodenticide Regulations, Trade Barriers, and Animal Health Guidelines in Recent Advocacy Efforts
In a busy week of advocacy and action, the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) addressed critical issues affecting the U.S. pork industry. From presenting arguments before the Supreme Court to urging delays in new EPA regulations, commenting on international trade barriers, and participating in a key animal health conference, NPPC continues to defend the interests of pork producers across the country. Here’s a breakdown of this week’s significant efforts:
Supreme Court Hears Arguments in Clean Water Act Case
The NPPC, in collaboration with various industry groups, presented its arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court in a Clean Water Act (CWA) case that could have major implications for agricultural producers, including livestock operations. The case centers on a wastewater discharge permit for San Francisco’s sewer system, which deals with both sewage and stormwater runoff. While the permit regulates the specific types and amounts of pollutants allowed, it also includes unattainable language prohibiting any negative impact on “water quality.”
This vague requirement could lead to costly legal challenges for agricultural producers, as any discharge, even within permitted limits, would technically violate the permit’s broad standards. NPPC argued that such impossible-to-meet requirements could expose farmers and livestock producers to expensive lawsuits from activist groups, who often exploit the legal system to harass businesses with compliance lawsuits. The NPPC and its allies are urging the Supreme Court to overturn a lower court ruling that upheld these burdensome standards, which could set a dangerous precedent for agriculture and other industries.
Why It Matters for Pork Producers:
Livestock producers, particularly those managing large-scale operations, rely on clear and achievable regulations. If the vague language in the Clean Water Act permits is upheld, it could result in unprecedented legal and financial pressures on farmers, including the possibility of daily fines exceeding $60,000. A ruling against NPPC’s position could invite more legal actions against pork producers, potentially disrupting farm operations and increasing costs.
NPPC Calls for Studies on Rodenticide Uses Before Finalizing EPA Regulations
NPPC, along with 10 other livestock and poultry organizations, submitted further comments to the EPA regarding proposed regulations on the use of rodenticides. The new rules would limit the purchase and application of rodenticides to certified applicators and require more detailed recordkeeping, aimed at protecting endangered species. However, NPPC argued that these regulations need to be supported by scientific studies showing the specific harm caused by rodenticides before moving forward.
Rodenticides are essential tools in agriculture, preventing rodents from damaging crops and spreading diseases to livestock. Without them, farms could face increased operational challenges and rising costs. NPPC emphasized that farmers already adhere to best practices, guided by state agriculture departments and land-grant universities, to ensure responsible use of rodenticides. The council is pushing for “serious studies” on rodenticide impacts before new regulations are imposed.
Why It Matters for Pork Producers:
Rodents can cause significant damage to farms by destroying crops, contaminating animal feed, and spreading diseases that affect both animals and humans. If the EPA’s regulations are implemented without sufficient scientific backing, pork producers could face increased costs and administrative burdens, potentially jeopardizing farm productivity and animal health. Ensuring the continued availability of rodenticides is crucial for maintaining efficient and cost-effective farm operations.
NPPC Comments on Trade Barriers in USTR’s 2025 National Trade Estimate Report
International trade is vital to the U.S. pork industry, with exports contributing significantly to producers’ bottom lines. In 2023, pork exports amounted to over $8.2 billion, equating to roughly $63.76 in value per hog. However, various trade barriers limit the industry’s access to key global markets. This week, NPPC submitted its comments to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) for the 2025 National Trade Estimate (NTE) report, highlighting significant barriers to pork exports.
NPPC’s submission pointed out several issues, including:
- China: Ban on the feed additive ractopamine, despite international standards permitting its use.
- Japan: Import restrictions through its “gate price” mechanism.
- India: Onerous export certification requirements.
- South Africa: Restrictions on pork offal and trichinae-related freezing.
- Australia: Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) barriers related to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS).
These barriers are not based on science, and NPPC has called on U.S. negotiators to work towards reducing or eliminating them to open these markets for U.S. pork.
Why It Matters for Pork Producers:
Access to international markets is a critical component of profitability for U.S. pork producers. Trade barriers that lack a scientific basis limit opportunities for growth and reduce competitiveness. By advocating for the removal of these barriers, NPPC is working to ensure that pork producers can access more markets and increase their profitability.
NPPC’s Veterinarians Participate in USAHA Conference, Focus on Animal Health
NPPC’s Dr. Anna Forseth and Dr. Ashley Johnson took part in the United States Animal Health Association (USAHA) annual meeting in Nashville, where they led discussions on key animal health issues, including African Swine Fever (ASF), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDv), and gene editing. The NPPC veterinarians also helped draft new guidelines for biosecurity and surveillance measures that would allow businesses to continue operating in the event of an ASF detection.
The USAHA is a forum that brings together regulators, scientists, and industry representatives to tackle animal health, welfare, and food safety concerns. The draft guidelines developed by NPPC and its collaborators aim to provide a clear roadmap for maintaining business continuity after a disease outbreak. These guidelines will be submitted to the USDA’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) for consideration.
Why It Matters for Pork Producers:
Maintaining biosecurity and preventing disease outbreaks are critical to the sustainability of pork production. ASF and other diseases pose significant threats to livestock health and farm operations. By proactively working with regulators to establish clear, science-based guidelines, NPPC is helping to protect pork producers from the potentially devastating impact of disease outbreaks, ensuring that they can continue operations while maintaining animal health standards.
Conclusion:
The NPPC’s recent activities underscore the organization’s commitment to defending the interests of pork producers in multiple arenas, from the U.S. Supreme Court to international trade negotiations and animal health forums. By tackling legal, regulatory, and health challenges, NPPC continues to advocate for science-based policies that support the long-term viability of the U.S. pork industry. Pork producers stand to benefit from these efforts, ensuring a more favorable regulatory and trade environment that allows them to continue feeding both domestic and international markets.
