Know Your Pork, Nose to Tail
Curious about raising your own pork but not sure where to start? This no-nonsense, hands-on class will walk you through every step of raising pigs for home meat—from picking the right piglets to planning out your freezer space. Whether you’re dreaming of bacon or just want to know where your food comes from, you’ll leave with real-life know-how, realistic expectations, and a whole lot more confidence. We’ll cover breeds, feed, housing, humane care, timelines, and the fine art of staying sane on processing day.
When: November 10th, 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Where: OSU Extension, Redmond Fairgrounds, Building 3
Ticket Price: Contribute-What-You-Can
Sold Out? Can’t Make the Date? Pre-Register!
Pre-registration is free; we only charge your credit card when we’re ready to schedule (and you say ok). When 12 people pre-register, we’ll set up the next workshop!
The Details
Pig Sense from the Ground Up
Learn the essentials of raising pigs for your freezer. We’ll cover how to select breeds, set up housing that works for both pigs and humans, and feed them well without going broke. Scott Duggan will break down the practical stuff with a no-judgment, real-life approach that’s perfect for beginners or folks looking to up their game.
Timelines, Feed & Freezers
We’ll help you map out a feeding and growth timeline that aligns with your processing date (and your freezer’s capacity). You’ll leave understanding the math behind weight gain, the importance of balanced nutrition, and how to work backward from butchering day so you’re not caught off guard.
The Big Day…Be Ready
Processing pigs doesn’t have to be scary—especially when you know what to expect. We’ll talk through humane handling, transportation, and how to communicate with your butcher about cuts, cure, and what to ask for. Bonus: fewer surprises when it’s time to fill your freezer.
Community Potluck!
Nothing says community like a potluck. Breaking bread while building bridges, so to speak. This workshop will include a potluck, a chance to talk about what you are learning, share experiences, and get to know one another. We’ll supply the main protein. Please bring something along to share with your neighbors!
Workshop Leader
Scott Duggan
Scott Duggan is an Assistant Professor at Oregon State University and a longtime supporter of School of Ranch. He’s known, liked, and respected throughout Central Oregon’s farming and ranching community for his deep knowledge and approachable style. His Extension program focuses on horse and livestock production, pasture and forage management, and helping people build practical systems that work on real land with real animals.
Partner
OSU Extension
This workshop is brought to you in partnership with OSU Extension, which has been working alongside Oregon communities for over a century. From food systems to sustainable agriculture and youth education, OSU Extension delivers research-backed knowledge to solve real-world problems across every county in the state. We’re proud to collaborate with this incredible team of educators and scientists.
Join school of ranch
Save 20% On This Workshop!
Join School of Ranch and get 20% off all workshops for a year. Your membership helps us cover our costs. Being non-profit doesn’t mean you can lose money! We need your support and nothing shows support as much as a membership.
frequently asked questions
What should I wear?
Dress for an indoor classroom setting. Comfortable clothing required!
What should I bring?
Notebook, questions, and a willingness to learn. No prior livestock experience required.
Can kids attend?
Youth may attend if accompanied by an adult. Everyone must have their own ticket!
Will there be food?
Yes. This workshop includes a potluck meal. Participants are encouraged to bring a dish to share. We’ll bring the main protein!
What is School of Ranch?
School of Ranch is a Central Oregon based 501c3 nonprofit. We hire experienced locals to teach practical and artisan skills, live and in person. Beyond teaching skills and helping grow our workshop leader’s businesses, we create common ground for neighbors. School of Ranch brings together people regardless of politics, age, background or beliefs.