The team at North Dakota State University Extension has hired a new swine Extension specialist to help hog producers.

Taw Scaff, who began his role in May, says he is eager to bring his extensive swine experience to the state.

READY TO ROLL: Taw Scaff joined NDSU in May of 2024, after finishing his Ph.D. at Perdue University. His education includes studies in animal science, swine nutrition, and swine reproduction. (Photo courtesy of Taw Scaff)

“I actually grew up in a rural community in Oklahoma working on a beef operation,” he says. “In my sophomore year attending [Oklahoma State University], I got involved with swine research, and realized how much I enjoyed it. Then, my adviser had a spot for me to get my master’s and continue with research and teaching.”

Scaff studied animal science and swine nutrition at OSU, and earned his doctorate in swine nutrition and reproduction at Purdue University.

“In my master’s, I conducted research on nursery pig water intake, and during my doctorate, I worked with Purdue’s swine Extension specialist researching boar nutrition,” he says.

Through his studies and research, Scaff will assist North Dakota producers with all aspects of management, from nutrition to reproduction.

Joining the herd

Following his graduation from Purdue, Scaff moved to Fargo, N.D., for his job. “I attended the North Dakota State Fair and assisted with the 4-H swine show there,” he says.

“I’m also working on getting a seminar series started for those who are interested in the swine industry, and working closely with North Dakota Livestock Alliance to help get new barns started.”

Scaff says he enjoys attending county fairs and livestock shows, as well as visiting with producers. Aside from working with producers, he has a research appointment and will be working with 4-H and agriculture education programs.

He says he looks forward to teaching, a passion he realized during his studies at OSU. “I really enjoy teaching and that aspect of academia, so I’m excited to continue building relationships with producers and partners alike,” Scaff says.

For hog producers in North Dakota, Scaff says he hopes to address a few key challenges. “Every producer has those low-vitality pigs in their herd they have to help a little more to keep up with the herd,” he says. “Since the hog community in North Dakota is smaller, I want to help all producers have a successful relationship with companies and industry partners, who can benefit from working with each other.”

Producers can contact Scaff at 701-231-4292 or at [email protected].