Last week the IL Pork Expo, the Illinois Pork Producers and IL Soybean Assoc. hosted a breakout session on CONTRACT PRODUCTION OPPORTUNITIES FOR FARMERS. In this session we heard from many of the swine integrators that contract in the state on the options available to contract with them. We also heard from two farmer that had recently constructed swine finishing facilities in Illinois, as well as a banker on loan considerations and options for farmers looking to expand their farm portfolios. As part of this breakout session U of I extension presented on the value of adding manure to your farming operation. Below is a link to the presentation that was given and the resulting farmweek article with a short interview. If you have questions on nutrient management planning with manure or estimating your manures values, feel free to contact Ms. Laura Pepple.