The following is based on conversations with my family in the hog-finishing business. In northwest Iowa, the expansion phase continues. I'm talking long-term here based on visible construction of new facilities and also county zoning board applications for future construction.

All the normal triggers are in place -- excellent corn crop prospects, cheap money for any qualified borrowers and steady profits over the past 3 years.

This is purely anecdotal ... but the same incentives apply broadly.