November 6, 2026 – USDA has awarded $51.9 million to 29 projects across 13 states to combat feral swine and reduce their impact on agriculture, natural resources, and human and livestock health. The funding is part of a broader $105 million investment through the Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program, a partnership between USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). The initiative supports coordinated efforts among agricultural producers and conservation partners to control and eradicate feral swine populations. Funding was provided through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which represents a significant long-term investment in USDA conservation programs.
Georgia was selected to receive $5.3 million for two projects:
Georgia Association of Conservation Districts (GACD) will be leading the Brier Creek Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program – $2,389,735: This project will identify large areas for coordinated aerial and ground control operations within the Brier Creek Soil and Water Conservation District, provide landowner education and training, establish a low-cost trap rental program, encourage coordinated removal efforts among neighboring landowners, and working with University of Georgia Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources to monitor the effectiveness of control practices. "This investment represents a tremendous opportunity to strengthen Georgia's efforts to address the damage caused by feral swine. Through partnership with our local Conservation District, federal and state partners, and landowners, we can expand access to effective control methods and promote a more coordinated approach to protecting Georgia's agricultural lands and natural resources," said Brian Ponder, President of the Georgia Association of Conservation Districts.
Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District will be leading a Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program – $2,930,832: This project will expand its existing trap loan program to three locations across the Conservation District, provide educational workshops and technical assistance, coordinate five annual USDA-APHIS-led aerial removal operations, and monitor project outcomes. "The Flint River District is thrilled to build upon the success of our Albany Area Pilot Program through this new, expanded opportunity," says Marty McLendon, Chair of the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District. "Our previous efforts showed the benefits of sustained, intensive whole sounder removal efforts on the feral swine population, local farm economies, and our natural resources. Taking these lessons learned to serve more stakeholders across the District is an exciting next step."
Together, these projects will strengthen local partnerships, increase landowner access to effective control resources, and support coordinated efforts to reduce feral swine populations and protect Georgia's agricultural lands and natural resources.
Funding was provided through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, representing a significant long-term investment in USDA conservation programs.
The mission of the Georgia Association of Conservation Districts (GACD) is to advocate for the conservation of Georgia’s natural resources by providing organization, leadership and a unified strategic direction to the Conservation Districts of the state. For more information on GACD or to explore opportunities on how you can support our efforts, please visit us online at www.gacd.us or on Facebook @GACDConserve.