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The Ag Engineering Update 2015

Constructing a Hoop Barn

When I am not working as an agricultural engineer, I spend my free time farming on a cattle and hay operation. Recently, we have been working to expand the hay sales, and last year we decided to put up 2 new hoop barns. Previously we had 1 hoop barn on the property that was put up by a company. We...
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Manure provides 'total nutrient package' for cropland

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...
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New Safety Sticker For Manure Pit Foaming

As we move into manure application season, it is important to remember safety.  Two visible safety reminders are now available for you to use on your farm.  A safety decal reminding farm workers of the danger of manure foaming has been developed from a research project funded by Iowa Pork...
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Stopping backdraft on ventilation fans in the winter

Backdraft is when air flows the wrong way through an opening. Typically barns are set up so outside air moves through an inlet, across the animals and the fans pull it back outside. When backdraft occurs, outside air moves into the barn through the fan. The main reason drafts come through the fans...
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Emergency power supply

Recently, I have been thinking about purchasing a generator for my farm. The requirement for an emergency power supply is not always necessary, but should be considered, particularly if you have animals. Power requirements for livestock are critical as power is often used for ventilation, and for...
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