Services

The Extension Poultry Science faculty are very involved in problem solving/service related activities that have high impact results for the poultry industry in Georgia. In addition to the traditional problem solving/service activities related to poultry production management, Extension faculty are providing assistance with many of the issue oriented challenges facing the poultry industry.

Breeder Flock Management

Dr. Jeanna Wilson continues to provide programming for breeder flock managers and operators. Field studies and research projects are underway aimed at improving productivity, fertility and hatchability of hatching egg flocks. Dr. Wilson's current research projects relate to ultra-sound measurement of male testicular size for evaluation of male performance, early feed intake effects on male body weights and mating activity, and the use of electrostatic devices to reduce dust and pathogens in breeder houses.

Energy Efficiency and Ventilation of Poultry Houses

Maintaining optimum environments in poultry houses is critical to achieving maximum performances of commercial flocks of poultry. Mr. Czarick and Dr. Fairchild are involved through a team effort in an ongoing research and demonstrational program to reduce energy requirements and to improve ventilation for poultry production facilities. Current projects are investigating the use of computerized environmental control systems for maximizing the efficient use of ventilation, feeding and drinking equipment. Data and information related to energy, feed, and water usage are being collected under field conditions and should result in improved management programs for poultry producers. It is conservatively estimated that previous work in this area has produced an economic impact of more than $4 million annually as a result of improved broiler performance, as well as reduced fuel and electrical usage.

Environmental and County Zoning Issues

The ability of the poultry industry to effectively respond to public concerns related to nutrient management, dead bird disposal and protection of surface and ground water on poultry farms has been paramount to the continued growth and economic success of this industry. Several faculty in Extension Poultry Science are making significant contributions in this arena. Drs. Ritz and Dunkley are actively involved in providing programing and support for County Agents developing nutrient management plans for poultry operators. These efforts have helped the state's poultry producers respond quickly and effectively to environmental critics and have been beneficial to this point in preventing stricter and costly state mandated programs. The University of Georgia Agricultural& Environmental Services Laboratory have processed thousands of soil, water, and feed samples annually in support of the poultry industry. Dr. Ritz works with the Georgia Poultry Federation, County Agents, county developmental councils and zoning commissions as the need arises. The efforts in this area have helped county regulators understand the nature of the poultry industry and to develop reasonable zoning regulations regarding poultry expansion and operations in these communities.

Food Safety and Quality Control

In 1994, the United States Department of Agriculture instituted new food safety regulations. As a result of these new regulations, poultry processors are responsible for monitoring USDA food safety standards and evaluation of poultry carcasses for E. coli and Salmonella. Failure of processors to meet or exceed strict USDA standards can result in withdrawal of inspection for a minimum of three months and may result in shut downs for even longer periods of time. The economic impact of shutting down a processing plant for any period of time could be devastating to both integrators and growers. Many poultry processors have had difficulty in meeting the new food safety regulations. Dr. Manpreet Singh has been active in developing and conducting workshops related to HAACP programs mandated for processing plants. These programs have been developed for both poultry meat and table egg producers and are intended to help poultry companies reduce food contamination by reducing these problems at the production level.

Hatchery Sanitation and Operation

The purpose of this program is to improve hatchability of fertile eggs in poultry hatcheries through the employment of improved sanitation, ventilation, and management procedures. Dr. Wilson also provides problem solving services to hatchery managers and breeder service personnel related to hatchability and fertility problems.

Youth Program Activities

The Extension Poultry Science faculty annually conduct area and state poultry judging contests and serve as judges for District 4-H and FFA projects. Over 1000 youth participated in poultry activities each year with state winners participating in national contests. These youth programs are very beneficial to the poultry industry and our department. These programs acquaint youngsters with poultry management and poultry science and help them become responsible, productive citizens regardless of whether they become employees of the poultry industry or poultry scientists. For information on youth poultry programs, please contact Dr. Casey Ritz.

These programs are examples of some of the primary areas of emphasis of the Extension Poultry Science faculty. All of these programs represent high quality, high impact activities and are examples of this faculty's ability to provide relevant and important support for the poultry producers of Georgia.