During February 2016, Rich Gates and myself have had a few of opportunities to give some different presentations. On Tuesday and Wednesday of this week we attended the IL Pork Expo in Springfield, IL. With the new location in Springfield IL, it was exciting to see the new layout for the floor and the legislative reception was a noteworthy new event this year. On the expo floor we hosted a display with information on our ongoing research. Dr. Gates brought information about a study that is looking at a novel method of piglet euthanasia. I brought information about utilizing cover crops with manure as the primary fertilizer source. In addition to the certified livestock manager training provided on Tuesday morning, we each gave presentations at the IL Pork Expo. Dr. Gates gave a presentation on ventilation in the barn management session. I spoke in a session on opportunities for contract growers about the value of manure.

Later on Wednesday, I had the opportunity to travel to Columbus, IN to the Midwestern Women in Agriculture Conference. The conference included women from all different types and sizes of farming operations. I had the opportunity to give a presentation on farmstead planning. Overall, Purdue Extension put on a great program with some very informative speakers. Over the course of the week, I had the chance to meet many new farmers and others involved in agriculture. I hope to see many of you again next year.