In this episode of the Farm4Profit Podcast, we welcome Rod Pinkston, the CEO and innovative force behind JAGER PRO. Rod is a pioneer in the world of feral hog control, known for inventing the M.I.N.E. Trapping System and introducing thermal shooting techniques that have transformed the industry. With a 24-year career in the U.S. Army, including time with the elite Olympic Shooting Team, Rod's unique background and expertise have positioned him as a leader in effective wild pig management.

We dive deep into the story of JAGER PRO, the first private company to adapt military-grade technology for controlling feral hog populations. Their team, comprised of 10 retired soldiers with over 220 years of combined military experience, is dedicated to providing innovative solutions to combat the severe damage caused by wild pigs. We discuss their Integrated Wild Pig Control (IWPC®) model, which aims for 100% capture or kill performance, preventing pigs from surviving, reproducing, or becoming trap-educated.

Rod also shares insights from his recent research paper, Rethinking Our Approach to Wild Pig Control Data and Field Tasks, where he tested various trapping methods and highlighted the importance of whole-sounder removal for effective population control. We explore the findings from this study, including the effectiveness of mobile corral traps and the need for improved data collection under initiatives like the 2018 Farm Bill.

This episode provides a fascinating look into the challenges and successes of modern hog control methods, the impact of military tactics on feral swine management, and the future innovations that could further improve efficiency. Whether you’re a farmer, rancher, or just curious about wildlife control, you won’t want to miss this episode.