The IPP is a unique breed of pig that originated in Rigby, ID from the vision and dedication of Gary Farris and Shelly Dixon (Farris). Established in 2007, the IPP breed embodies the perfect combination of desirable traits from various heritage pig breeds, creating an all-natural, pasture-based meat pig with remarkable qualities.

Gary and Shelly’s journey began when they married on their beloved farm in 2004. With a shared love for pigs, they embarked on a quest to find the ideal pasture-based pig breed that would not only provide them pork but also possess gentle dispositions suitable for their homestead. Gary's research led them to discover the Kunekune pig, a small, friendly pasture pig from New Zealand, renowned for its short, upturned snout and grazing ability.

Their initial encounters with Kunekune pigs left a lasting impression. Their affectionate nature and gentle demeanor inspired Gary and Shelly to further explore the potential of raising pigs for both companionship and pork production.

Gary and Shelly observed stark differences between Kunekune pigs and larger heritage breeds in temperament, growth rate, and grazing behavior. While Kunekune pigs exhibited docile and gentle traits, larger breeds displayed more aggressive behaviors and rooting tendencies. Recognizing the desire among farmers for a smaller, friendlier meat pig, Gary and Shelly embarked on a mission to create the perfect pasture-based pig breed.

Drawing inspiration from the Kunekune's grazing abilities and gentle disposition, as well as the excellent pork qualities of heritage breeds like the Berkshire and Duroc, Gary and Shelly embarked on a journey to develop the IPP. Through meticulous selection and breeding, they aimed to incorporate the best qualities of each breed into the IPP, including shorter snouts for efficient grazing, friendly personalities, ideal conformation, and excellent pork quality.

Over several years of dedicated research and experimentation, Gary and Shelly refined their breeding program, carefully selecting pigs with desirable traits to establish the IPP breed. Their homestead underwent significant transformations to accommodate their vision, including pasture revitalization, infrastructure improvements, and continual breed selection.

In 2012, after years of dedication and perseverance, Gary and Shelly introduced their breeding stock to the public, marking a significant milestone in the establishment of the IPP breed. Since then, the IPP breed has gained recognition and popularity among farmers seeking a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to pig farming.

Today, IPPs are cherished for their medium size, grazing ability, friendly disposition, and excellent pork quality. They graze pasture contently, exhibit gentle behaviors, and reach a market weight of 250-300 lbs. in an 8-10 month timeframe.

The story of the IPP is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and innovation in shaping the future of pasture-based agriculture. Gary and Shelly’s pioneering spirit and commitment to sustainable farming practices have left an indelible mark on the swine industry, inspiring farmers to embrace family-friendly pasture-based farming.