Get up-to-date information about using hoop structures or hoop shelters for housing pigs with Hoop Structures for Gestating Swine, a new publication from MidWest Plan Service.

Written by agricultural engineers, animal scientists and ag economists from several midwestern universities, the booklet is a good resource for investigating the low-cost structures for raising pigs.

The 16-page publication provides an objective review of the pros and cons of the buildings. It offers different layout options and describes how they vary depending on the type of feeding systems used. For instance, feeding stalls are the most expensive yet may be the best choice for individual sow management. Price: 4 dollars plus shipping and handling. Contact NRAES, Dept. FIN, 152 Riley-Robb Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, 607/255-7654, HYPERLINK http://www.nraes.org www.nraes.org.