There are advantage and challenges when it comes to swine production and expansion.”For the crop farmer, the advantage is basis,” says Dr. Bob Thaler, swine specialist, South Dakota State University Extension. “Pigs eat a lot of corn and soybeans and it doesn’t take a big farm to utilize a lot of feed,” he says. “There have been examples in South Dakota corn basis was 28 cents per bushel more from when livestock moved in just in a four year period.” Another benefit is manure. “2,400 head swine finishing barn produces about $25,000 worth of fertilizer. Livestock manure also provides a 10 percent yield bump in corn and soybeans.” However the advantages do come with challenges, including concerns about water contamination and odor. Speaking at the at 2nd Annual North Dakota Livestock Alliance Livestock Summit, Thaler assured both of those concerns are addressed and monitored. Hear more in this RRFN interview.