New Extension specialist excited to grow North Dakota swine industry

by Taw Scaff

Assistant Professor & Extension Swine Specialist

The NDSU swine program recently gained a new team member and is looking forward to continuing its dedication to the stakeholders, students, youth, producers and public. My name is Taw Scaff, and I have been welcomed to NDSU as the new Extension Swine Specialist. A little bit about me: I grew up in a small rural community in Oklahoma, where I was heavily involved in 4-H and FFA with projects focused on beef and swine. I attended Oklahoma State University for my bachelor’s (animal science production) and master’s degree (swine nutrition), and Purdue University for my Ph.D. (swine nutrition and reproduction). Throughout my time involved in swine research, I have focused on applied areas of nutrition, reproduction and management in all ages of pigs.   

As the Extension Swine Specialist, I am responsible for being a steward for the producers, youth, public and allied partners involved in the swine industry. I believe this can be accomplished by building relationships on the state and national level to provide meaningful Extension and research efforts focused on the needs of North Dakota swine production. Also, collaboration with 4-H programs and agriculture education in school systems can provide educational material, activities, and networking for youth interested in swine. Additionally, giving similar opportunities to producers while engaging and listening to large and small operations will aid in solving on-farm problems that can occur when raising pigs in a production or show setting. 

               Interest in swine is growing in the state. The dedicated people not only here at NDSU but also across the state in our allied industries are excited about the possibilities of the swine industry. As we continue to develop the swine program, be on the lookout for more opportunities to get involved. 

               I am excited to start this journey and look forward to building relationships and assisting new and seasoned swine producers. Follow our NDSU Animal Science and NDSU Extension Livestock Facebook pages for updates and events. Reach out and feel free to contact me anytime (office: 701-231-4292, cell: 701-831-5674, or email: taw.scaff@ndsu.edu).