The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved the construction of a 2,400 head swine confinement barn near Alden Tuesday morning.

The barn will be at 21453 690th Ave. on the farm of Shane and Kristine Christensen.

Christensen said the expansion is meant to draw more income for his family that includes three boys. Christensen stressed his operation is local.

The barn will be the third 2,400 head swine confinement barn located on the Christensen farm.

Christensen is looking to construct the building this year. Barns are usually completed approximately 90 days after construction begins Freeborn County planning and zoning administrator Wayne Sorensen said.

Sorensen said he has seen a few requests for barns come through this year.

“We all know the farm economy is the biggest economic input to this county,” Sorensen said. “The current trend is that crop farming alone is getting to be a closer margin of profit. The addition of livestock helps the farmer stay in business and be competitive.”

Christensen is currently waiting for paperwork in connection with the project from the state to finish.