Alabama Poultry, January/February 2015

AP&EA P.O. Box 240 Montgomery, AL 36101 Address Service Requested

January / February 2015 – Vol. 10 No. 1

Board of Directors Officers Dale Gambrill, President, Snead* Tim Esslinger, Vice President, Eufaula* Harold Hunt, Treasurer, Gadsden* Kenneth Sanders, Secretary, Brundidge* Randall Ennis, Immediate Past President, Huntsville*

Directors Johnny Adcock, Woodland George Attwood, Anniston Richard Curvin, Ashland Cory Early, Albertville Dennis Gordon, Montgomery Ben Gore, Cullman Lane Holladay, Tyler Casey Jones, Hoover Heath Loyd, Decatur David Massey, Enterprise Dennis Maze, Horton Kevin McDaniel, Huntsville Todd McMahen, Dothan Dr. Shannon Morgan, Huntsville Mitchell Pate, Auburn* Mike Pigg, Cullman John Pittard, Guntersville John Roberts, Cullman Keith Rhodarmer, Collinsville Roddy Sanders, Gordo Jason Shell, Huntsville Jason Spann, Hanceville* Jon Strange, Guntersville Ken Taylor, Anniston Stanley Usery, Athens Ricky Walker, Snead Brad Williams, Troy David White, Russellville

Advisors Dr. Don Conner, Auburn University James Donald, Auburn University Dr. Joe Hess, Auburn University Jacob Davis, Montgomery Dr. Tony Frazier, Montgomery Diane Guthrie, Auburn *Executive Committee Members

AP&EA StAFF

Johnny Adams – Executive Director Wanda H. Linker – Administrative Director Ray Hilburn – Associate Director Huck Carroll – Communications Director/Editor Jennifer Shell – Support Director

Alabama Poultry Magazine is published by the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association 465 South Bainbridge Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Phone: 334-265-2732 Fax: 334-265-0008

Send editorial and advertising correspondence to: Alabama Poultry Magazine Editor P.O. Box 240 Montgomery, AL 36101 Advertising rates and closing dates available upon request.

Editorial matter from sources outside AP&EA is sometimes presented for the information and interest of our members. Such material may or may not coincide with official AP&EA policy. Publication does not necessarily imply endorsement by AP&EA.

w w w. a l a b a m a p o u l t r y. o r g www.facebook.com/BamaChicken

Executive Director’s Message

It’s springtime at last and just like the blooming spring fields and spring flowers, the Alabama poultry industry seems to be experiencing new growth.

In many parts of the state, new poultry farms are being built to supply the needs of our poultry processing companies. Low feed prices and an increasing demand for chicken around the world has us all working hard. Low LP gas prices and new natural gas lines and alternative wood pellet heating systems made life a little easier this winter at our poultry farms. We’ve had a few snow days but they didn’t last long allowing the poultry industry to stay in motion and not experience too much down time.

In the few winter storm situations we experienced, Gov. Bentley was quick to issue a proclamation exempting our poultry truck drivers from the “hours of service for drivers” regulations of the U.S. Department of Transportation - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This exemption allowed us time to catch up on our deliveries to the farm and the processing plants. We are grateful to the governor for recognizing Alabama’s poultry industry as a key economic factor in the state’s economy.

We are happy to announce that our Executive Committee has chosen Cole Swindell to be our featured entertainment for our annual “Evening of Fun” concert to be held June 6 in Birmingham. Cole is an up and coming country music superstar with hits that include “Chillin’ It” and “You Ain’t Worth the Whiskey.” There will likely be more hits by the time the concert rolls around.

Opening for Cole Swindell is Clare Dunn who is also becoming a recognized name and voice on the charts and is considered a talented musician.

So come join us at the concert and support the Association and industry.

We plan to charter some transportation buses for south Alabama and northeast and northwest Alabama to the concert and back. There will be more details about that later, but remember that children 18 and under are admitted free if attending with an adult, so bring the kids and have a great time!

Featuring This Issue Governmental Affairs Association News International Process & Production Expo 2015 “Evening of Fun” Grower Profile: Kevin Skinner Poultry Honors Poultry Education Industry News Practical Applications Calendar of Events

Alabama Poultry Magazine

pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg.

January / February 2015

4 8 12 16 18 20 22 24 26 30

3

Governmental Affairs

Agriculture & Forestry Steering Committee Presents Report to the Governor

MONTGOMERY – On Feb. 10, at the Alabama State Farmer’s Market, members of the Steering Committee for the Alabama Agriculture & Forestry Strategic Plan presented their report to Gov. Robert Bentley. The report calls for enhanced cooperation between business and government that could potentially create as many as 58,000 new jobs in Alabama, and adding $70 billion to the state’s economy by 2020.

According to Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries John McMillan, the purpose of the strategic plan is to galvanize the state’s agricultural and business leaders to commit to a series of goals and strategies, in order to achieve sustained growth for greater prosperity for Alabama’s working families and help meet the world’s growing demand for high quality food and fiber.

In his remarks, Gov. Bentley thanked the committee for its work and reiterated his commitment to work in unison with farmers, foresters and small businesses allied with their industries in helping achieve their goals.

“Agriculture, forestry and related businesses represent nearly 40 percent of Alabama’s economic output of $70.4 billion a year, and this Strategic Plan provides a clear and concise direction of improving the lives of Alabama’s

4

January / February 2015

working families through economic expansion,” Gov. Bentley said.

The committee, made up of agricultural, forestry and agribusiness stakeholders, including AP&EA Executive Director Johnny Adams, completed this plan after hundreds of hours of work. It is a direct result of the Alabama Agricultural Economic Impact Study, released in March 2013, as a way to determine a logical sequence for building on that encouraging study and continuing a sustainable pattern of economic growth through 2020.

In 2014, agriculture, agribusiness, forestry and forest products industries were Alabama’s largest economic sector, employing nearly 580,300 Alabama residents.

“By focusing our efforts and working in unison with one another, these goals, which may seem ambitious, can be achieved,’ Commissioner McMillan said. “We have taken the first critical step of uniting behind a specific set of goals, objectives and action items that are critical to agriculture and forestry.”

Commissioner McMillan referred to the document’s “Keys to Future Growth” as the foundation for building and effective and viable long-range plan. Those keys include: 1. Fostering capital investment 2. Developing a quality workforce

Alabama Poultry Magazine

3. Ensuring freedom to operate 4. Maintaining transportation infrastructure 5. Expanding markets and trade 6. Strengthening the land grant mission 7. Promoting economic development with state agency collaboration Goals specific to poultry include: • Working with agricultural stakeholders to review and simplify implementation of the Alabama Animal Feeding Operation/Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (AFO/CAFO) rules and regulations to ensure good environmental stewardship without the program being an economic burden to livestock producers.

• Expand poultry production and processing to meet domestic and global demand while targeting locations in Alabama in need of economic stimulation.

• Decrease operating costs of poultry production and processing.

• Develop new equipment with emerging technology to optimize poultry production and processing.

• Educate consumers, farmers, and public officials of the value of the Alabama poultry industry.

Chicken Industry Adds 21,000 New Direct Jobs; Total Economic Output Increases $143 Billion over Last Two Years Updated study quantifies the economic impact of the chicken industry in the United States

WASHINGTON, D.C. – January 12, 2015 – The National Chicken Council (NCC) and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) today have made available an updated economic impact study that highlights the increased positive impact the chicken industry has on jobs, wages, and federal and state revenue in the United States.

A dynamic and integral part of the national economy, the chicken industry increased from 2012 to 2014 its number of direct jobs from 259,000 to 280,800.

Taking into account direct, supplier and induced impact, the chicken industry generates 1,339,875 jobs nationwide, according to the study.

The industry also increased from 2012 to 2014 its total amount of wages

from $49.1 billion to $74 billion, total economic activity from $205.6 billion to $348.8 billion, and government revenue from $18 billion to $24.4 billion.

The data is hosted on an interactive website www.chickenfeedsamerica.com – that can be sorted nationally, by state, congressional district, state house district or state senate district.

“As we kick-off the 114th Congress, it is important to highlight, as this study captures, the fact that chicken producers’ positive economic impact stretches from coast to coast and hits every sector of the U.S. economy,” remarked NCC President Mike Brown. “We know that chicken is nutritious, affordable and versatile, but chicken also means jobs – whether it’s on the farm, in the process-

Alabama Poultry Magazine

ing plant, the transportation sector, manufacturing, retail or restaurants.”

Added John Starkey, president of USPOULTRY, “We are pleased to be able to provide this valuable tool across the industry that demonstrates the positive economic impact the poultry industry has on our communities.”

The economic impact study was funded by USPOULTRY. The study was conducted by John Dunham & Associates, based in New York City, and uses data from 2014. The study was updated using the most current methodology available, and as a result, a small portion of the increase can be attributed to the new methodology.

January / February 2015

5

Agricultural stakeholders meet with Commissioner John McMillan at a reception at the RSA Activity Center.

(Above) Commissioner McMillan introduced his wife, Kathryn. (Below) Commission McMillan and his grandson, John, 10, ride the Ag float.

“We face a budget shortfall that rises into the hundreds of millions of dollars.” Gov. Robert Bentley

MONTGOMERY – On Monday, Jan. 19, 2015 – the bands played and the floats rolled up Dexter Ave. to Alabama’s capitol, in celebration of the reelection and inauguration of Gov. Robert Bentley, Commisioner of Agricultur & Industries John McMillan, as well as the rest of the incumbent top state office holders.

Before the parade, Commissioner McMillan invited all of the commodity stakeholders to a reception at the RSA

6

January / February 2015

Second Inagural For Gov. Bentley, Ag & Industries Commissioner McMillan and Other State Officers

Activity Center, where he spoke briefly and introduced his wife of 44 years, Kathyrn.

In his inaugural speech, McMillan talked of agriculture’s economic value to the state of Alabama, and the need to keep it viable and growing.

Gov. Bentley, in his speech, pointed to increased job growth in the private sector, saying that unemployment in Alabama was at its lowest since 2008.

“Four years ago,” he said, “ we stood

Alabama Poultry Magazine

here recognizing the uphill battle before us; unemployment was high, the economy was struggling and state government could barely afford to sustain itself. Undaunted, we went right to work, streamlining state government, creating well-paying jobs and getting our economy back on track.”

He then went on to discuss the budget shortfall that would precipitate his later call for additional taxes.

Association News

Jess Campbell and Jeremiah Davis

Jim Donald of the National Poultry Technology Center

Local Association Meetings: Addressing Grower Needs

It’s been an active two months for county association meetings. The Wiregrass Poultry & Egg Association met on Jan. 6, at Granny’s Restaurant in Kinston. They heard a presentation by Jim Donald of the National Poultry Technology Center on the topic of basic ventillation for the winter. A week later, Jess Campbell gave a similar presentation to the Central Alabama Poultry & Egg Association meeting in Luverne. He also took the opportunity to introduce the newest member of the NPTC team, Dr. Jeremiah Davis. Both meetings were sponsored by First South Farm Credit and Alabama Ag Credit.

Nationwide Insurance/Randy Jones & Associates spon-

sored the Clay County Poultry & Egg Association quarterly meeting at Miss Anita’s Restaurant in Lineville, on Feb. 12.

They also sponsored the Randolph County Poultry & Egg Association meeting on Feb. 19, at the Wedowee Marina Restaurant, on the shore of Lake Wedowee. Randy Jones’ associates John Strange and Pam Skidmore split the speaking duties. Strange spoke in Lineville while Skidmore spoke in Wedowee. Their message was the same, growers need a variety of insurance to protect themselves and their employees. Workman’s comp and life insurance are just two examples of protection. The bottom line: Nationwide has the products and expertise to fill the need.

Pam Skidmore of Randy Jones Insurance Agency

Koch – Ashland Broiler Manager Jason King talks with Ray Hilburn

8

January / February 2015

Alabama Poultry Magazine

Department of Revenue Says Poultry Tag Almost 1/3rd of the Way to Being Issued

We are making slow, but steady progress on pre-orders for the Alabama Poultry License Tag. Currently we have Show your pride in the Alabama poultry industry and provide nearly 300 tags pre-ordered. scholarships for outstanding poultry science students That means we still nead an additional 700 orders before the state much needed scholarships for students https://precommit.mvtrip.alabama.gov/ in Alabama poultry science programs at or visit our website www.alabamapoulwill start issuing tags.

The cost of the tag is $50, and is tax both Auburn and community colleges try.org or our Facebook page at deductible. From that $50, AP&EA will that participate in the 2 + 2 Program. It www.facebook.com/BamaChicken for get $41.25 back from the state. AP&EA will also help fund AP&EA educational a link. If you can’t get online, call our will send $10 of that back to the local programs. The $10 that goes back to the office at 1-800-254-2732 and we’ll help association in the county where the tag county associations will be used to fund you order. their own scholarship programs.

Remember, we can’t do this withwas purchased.

To pre-order online, go to out your help.

The $31.25 will be used to provide

Alabama Poultry Magazine

January / February 2015

9

International Production & Processing Expo

American Proteins was ready to render answers to any offal rendering question

Pat Meggs was busy with customers like Michael Starling and his very tall son, T.J.

The equipment was humming at D&F Equipment Sales

Byron Irwin and Larry Raughton were standing by the ladder to rescue anyone who might fall into the composter

12

January / February 2015

The night before the beginning of the IPPE show got started, a number of companies held receptions. There was a big networking reception at the Georgia Aquarium. Ray Hilburn and I attended the International Paper reception at the new College Football Hall of Fame, where Ray amazed me by kicking field goals on the regulation sized 30-yard field. Ray is the only right-handed person that I know of who kicks left-footed. It must be a Luverne thing!

Getting to the Georgia World Congress Center the next morning I had a flash-back to the ‘50s and a movie called “The Blob.” It was all about an organism from space that kept expanding, almost uncontrollably. I remember early in the movie a scientist ran out of his lab wailing, “It’s growing, it’s growing!”

That’s kind of how I felt entering the World Congress Center. The word “overwhelmed” came to mind. This event, formerly known as the International Poultry Expo, is now known as the International Production & Processing Expo.

It has grown from two halls at the World Congress Center to three packed halls, encompassing 490.000 square feet and more than 1,250 exhibitors. And, it’s no longer just about poultry. It’s also about feed and about any other kind of meat that you can think of. It’s even got pet food. It makes you wonder what will be next. Wow, what a show!

After last year’s snow disaster, the good weather must have been a wonderful sight to the organizers. It was obvious that the attendees and vendors were ready to make up for lost time. Business was booming.

Visiting with Alabama Poultry & Egg Association allied members, it was hard to find someone who had time to talk.

Pat Meggs with Cumberland was busy talking with Michael Starling and his son, T.J. Auburn students were busy interviewing for internships, as Codi Plaster and Ashley Wiskirchen of the Auburn poultry science department were giving some of the 2+2 Program students their first look at the international nature of the poultry industry. From their wide eyes, you could tell that they were impressed.

The rest of the Auburn contingent was there, as well. Dr.

The laptops at Aviagen were working overtime

Alabama Poultry Magazine

Don Conner was enjoying seeing the 2+2 kids, as was Dr. Joe Hess.

Former Aviagen CEO and AP&EA Past President Randall Ennis was in the Aviagen booth, even though he is supposed to be retired. He is now involved in “special projects” for Aviagen.

Larry Raughton of Ecodrum was busy. Even though a smaller exhibitor in Hall C, Ecodrum was getting attention.

The ladder up to the big drum seemed to stay pretty well occupied.

Bud Holcomb at the Cobb booth had a crowd of folks around him and Eric Killen was busy showing off EIS’s latest creation of a stainless steel station for burning small feathers off chicken wings.

The American Proteins booth was busy, though, it’s just not the same without Fred Cespedes. Fred, if you read this, we miss you.

As usual there were lots of programs, both educational and informative. Some were also competetive and entertaining. There were scientific programs such as the International Poultry Scientific Forum and the Environmental Conference for the Meat and Poultry Industry.

Worker safety was the subject of the Worker Safety Considerations:Equipment, Design, Installation & Operation conference. There was even a smattering of government regulations discussions with Food Safety Modernization Act – Building a Foundation for Compliance. And, yes, there was entertainment, competitive hot wing eating, ice sculpting and other fun stuff.

The boys from the National Poultry Technology Center were there dispensing their poultry wisdom to all comers.

They were joined by the newest member of the team, Dr. Jeremiah Davis.

It was an incredible event. I hope that many of our growers took advantage of the free bus transportation. If you didn’t, or even if you did, make plans for next year. Every year it keeps getting bigger and better.

The NOVUS globe is still revolving from all the business

The flags were out for international commerce at Cobb

The young guns of the NPTC: Jeremiah Davis, Dennis Brothers and Jess Campbell

The ladies at Zoetis were answering questions

The 2+2 Program students at their first IPPE were wide-eyed

Alabama Poultry Magazine

January / February 2015

13

Dr. Sarge Bilgili Receives 2015 Charles Beard Research Excellence Award

TUCKER, GA. – Jan. 26, 2015 – USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation are proud to recognize Dr. Sacit “Sarge” F. Bilgili, professor of poultry science at Auburn University, as the 2015 recipient of the annual Charles Beard Research Excellence Award. The award is named in honor of Dr. Charles Beard, former director of the Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory and retired vice president of research at USPOULTRY. The USPOULTRY Foundation Research Advisory Committee selected Dr. Bilgili for this prestigious award based on his exceptional research to enhance efficiency and product quality in the broiler industry. During the course of his research, Dr. Bilgili and his colleagues have received numerous research grants from USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation to investigate methods to improve the quality and safety of broiler products and improve poultry production methods. Dr. Bilgili has an impressive record of communicating his research findings to the broiler industry and assisting in implementing innovations.

“The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association has been very supportive of our research program over the years, and I am extremely grateful for this support. Dr. Beard’s research career is impressive, and I am pleased to receive this award that bears his name,” commented Dr. Bilgili.

“Dr. Bilgili’s research program is a great example of how USPOULTRY research funds can be directed toward important, applied research to find solutions to current problems faced by the poultry industry. The quality of Dr. Bilgili’s research is outstanding, and the results have been used by the broiler industry to make improvements in several areas including product quality, food safety and broiler production,” remarked Dr. John Glisson, vice president for research programs for USPOULTRY.

14

January / February 2015

Dr. Bilgili joined the Department of poultry science at Auburn University in 1985 as an assistant professor and extension poultry processing specialist, later attaining the ranks of associate professor (1991) and professor (1996). His scholarly work uniquely bridges live production and processing phases of the broiler industry.

The goal of the Charles Beard Research Excellence Award is to recognize outstanding completed research projects, funded by USPOULTRY or the USPOULTRY Foundation, which have made a significant positive impact on the poultry industry.

As the recipient of the award, Dr. Bilgili received a $1,500 cash prize. The award was presented to him during the International Poultry Scientific Forum, held in conjunction with the 2015 International Production & Processing Expo, by Dr. Beard and Dr. John Smith, Fieldale Farms Corporation, and chairman of the Foundation Research Advisory Committee.

Alabama Poultry Magazine

(From left) Dr. Charles Beard, former director of the Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory and retired vice president of research at USPOULTRY and Dr. Sarge Bilgili.

Dr. Greg Rosales, with Dr. John Smith of Fieldale Farms Corporation and Dr. John Glisson, a USPOULTRY staff member.

ATLANTA, Ga. – Jan. 26, 2015 – U.S. Poultry & Egg Association presented the organization’s annual Lamplighter Award to three individuals at the International Poultry Expo, part of the 2015 International Production & Processing Expo. The award pays tribute to individuals for “sustained and exemplary service” to the poultry and egg industry.

This year’s honorees are: James Adams, Wenger Feeds – James received his BS in poultry technology and management and a MBA, both from Penn State University. He

joined Wenger Feeds in Three Industry Leaders Receive 1980 and worked in a variety of responsibilities in egg USPOULTRY Lamplighter Award production, feed manufacPh.D. in veterinary medical microbiolturing, transportation, purchasing, and ogy in 1988, also from the University of sales and marketing. He is currently Georgia.

He then served as director of president and CEO of Wenger Feeds. technical services for Indian River InHe has served on the USPOULTRY ternational in Nacogdoches, Texas. In board of directors since 2002 and as 1991, he joined Ross Breeders, now chairman in 2013.

Aviagen, and served as a staff veterinarJay Houchin, Farbest Farms – ian, director of veterinary services and Jay received his BS in food science since 1997, as vice president of veterifrom Purdue University. He worked at nary services. Greg has long been an enSwift & Co. and Wabash Valley Prothusiastic supporter of USPOULTRY duce before joining Farbest Farms in programs and was an active member of 1997 where he is live production manthe USPOULTRY Foundation Research ager. He has served on the USPOULAdvisory Committee for eight years.

TRY board of directors since 2003 and “We value and sincerely appreciate has served on several committees on the commitment and support of this behalf of USPOULTRY throughout year’s Lamplighter Award winners,” the years. said 2014 USPOULTRY chairman Dr. Greg Rosales, Aviagen – Elton Maddox, Wayne Farms, OakGreg received his DVM from the Nawood, Ga. “They have enthusiastically tional Autonomous University of dedicated themselves to contributing to Mexico in 1979, his M.S. from the the industry, and we value their support University of Georgia in 1983, and his and service.”

Alabama Poultry Magazine

January / February 2015

15

“Evening of Fun” Golf Tournament at Limestone Springs Friday, June 5, 2015

Time for all golf pro wanna-be’s to step up and sign up for a great golf tournament at

a spectacular golf venue!

Directions from I-65 Take I-65 to I-59 North (towards Gadsden).

Take I-59/20 North to Highway 79 North (Tallapoosa Exit). Drive north approximately 17 miles. Turn right onto Highway 151 North.

Highway 151 will turn into Highway 75 North. Drive north approximately 13 miles.

Turn left onto County Road 15 at the billboard sign. Travel 2.5 miles. Turn right onto St. Andrew’s Parkway (this is the entrance to Limestone Springs.) Follow St. Andrews to Colonial Drive and turn left. This will take you to the clubhouse.

Directions from Cullman Take Highway 278 East to the town of Holly Pond. At first traffic light, turn right onto Highway 91. Immediately turn left onto Holly Pond/Blountsville Road and travel approximately 8 miles to Highway 231. Turn right onto Highway 231. Just south of Blountsville Highway 231 will turn into

Highway 79. Do not turn onto Highway 231 towards Oneonta. Continue south on Highway 79 through the town of Cleveland. After the Traffic light, travel 7 miles to County Road 15. Turn left onto County Road 15 and travel 3.6 miles to Limestone Springs entrance on your left. Turn left onto St. Andrew’s Parkway (this is the entrance to Limestone Springs.)

Follow St. Andrews to Colonial Drive and turn left.

Directions from Decatur Take I-65 South to exit #334. Turn left onto Highway 67 South to Highway 231 South.

Just south of Blountsville Highway 231 will turn into Highway 79. Do not turn onto Highway 231 towards Oneonta. Continue south on Highway 79 through the town of Cleveland. After the Traffic light, travel 7 miles to County Road 15. Turn left onto County Road 15 and travel 3.6 miles to Limestone Springs entrance on your left. Turn left

onto St. Andrew’s Parkway (this is the entrance to Limestone Springs.) Follow St. Andrews to Colonial Drive and turn left.

Directions from Gadsden Take I-59 South to exit #166 (Ashville/Oneonta). Turn right onto Highway 231, travel approximately 15 miles. In the city of Oneonta, you will reach a ‘T’ in the road, turn left onto Highway 75 South. Travel south to County Road 1 (1.3 miles south of Oneonta City School) and turn Right.

Travel 1.6 miles (small green sign on right for Limestone Springs) and turn left onto St. Andrews Parkway.

Follow to the third stop sign and turn right onto Colonial Drive.

List handicap. Only one-half of entry fee is refundable if the tournament is canceled due to an “Act of God” or some other unforeseeable difficulty. Limit – first 120 entries. Entry Fee: $100 per person. Mulligan packages $10 per person. No refund if canceled after May 25, 2015. .

Name Company Address Mulligan Handicap _______________________ ________________________ ________________________________ ______ _____ _______________________ ________________________ ________________________________ ______ _____ _______________________ ________________________ ________________________________ ______ _____ _______________________ ________________________ _______________________________ ______ _____

Invoice To: NAME___________________________________________ ADDRESS _______________________________________ FAX_____________________________________________

COMPANY/FARM _____________________________ PHONE ______________________________________ EMAIL _______________________________________

( ) Check Enclosed $ _________ ( ) Bill Me $ _________ ( ) Visa ( ) Mastercard ( ) Discover Card ( ) American Express

Billing Address_________________________________________City_______________________State_____________Zip_________

Name on Card_________________________________Card Number_____________________________________Exp. Date____/____

MAIL TO: AP&EA, P.O. Box 240, Montgomery, AL 36101 • 334-265-2732 • Fax: 334-265-0008

16

January / February 2015

Alabama Poultry Magazine

AP&EA Announces Lineup For 2015 “Evening of Fun!”

The Alabama Poultry & Egg Association is pleased to announce our lineup for the 2015 “Evening of Fun.” This year’s entertainment will be headlined by outstanding young country music talent, Cole Swindell. Our opening entertainer will be Clare Dunn. We will also have a wonderful Blue Jacket-Blue Grass FFA String Band to play for our early arrivers.

This year’s “Evening of Fun” will be on Saturday, June 6, at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex. Gate open at 6:00 p.m.

Earlier this year, Cole Swindell was nothing more or less than a terrific songwriter with a Nashville publishing deal and a growing reputation as one of the city's most exciting young performers. Now, he's on the road to stardom.

The gateway is "Chillin' It," a song as infectious and groove-laden as anything out there, with a laid-back summertime charm that perfectly captures the guy who wrote and performs it. Independent radio airplay and social media quickly turned it into a sensation. With sales continuing to rise, “Chillin’ It” is trending to be his first Gold certified single.

In fact, Cole's high-energy show wins converts every time he steps in front of a crowd, whether as a headliner in a club or as an opening act in front of 20,000 people.

"Honestly," he says, "I just want it to be fun. I get people who see me on stage who say, 'Hey, it looks like you're having the time of your life up there,' and I really am.”

Not bad for a guy who just three years ago was selling merchandise on tour with Luke Bryan, whom he'd once opened some shows for in Georgia. But such was his drive that there wasn't a wasted moment on

Clare Dunn

Cole Swindell the road. He watched Luke and every act he performed with, learning what worked with crowds, and he poured what he was learning into the songs he was writing.

Eventually, those songs earned him a staff writers' gig at Sony ATV, and with each co-write he expanded his circle of supporters.

"The publishing company told me, 'People are calling back and wanting more dates,’” he says. “’It seems like this town is getting behind you.' So I kept writing and paying my dues, working hard to get to the point where I deserved to be in the room with the major writers, people whose songs I was singing in college bars just a few years ago."

Meanwhile, he kept up his performing chops with solo and opening slot gigs, and finally his abilities as both a writer and performer came together on "Chillin' It," which captures all the restless energy that makes his one of the most compelling and high-energy shows in the business.

"I don't want to have a song where people feel comfortable going to get a beer," he says. "Once we get started, I don't want them to risk missing what's next. I want them to leave saying, 'That's the best show I've ever seen.'"

Alabama Poultry Magazine

Clare Dunn was born on a farm in southeast Colorado near the Oklahoma panhandle, Clare’s roots run deep in the heart of Dust Bowl country. Working cattle, hauling water, driving combines, tractors and eighteen wheelers from a young age all were a part of everyday life.

When your closest neighbor is six miles away, and many hours are spent behind the wheel of a John Deere Tractor on the family farm, a work ethic becomes ingrained in your soul. During the miles burned up hauling water to cattle, Clare dreamed of creating her own music.

And, she has done just that; touring, she has opened for Keith Urban, Florida Georgia Line, Colt Ford, Parmalee, Hank Jr., Jamey Johnson and others as well as played major festivals. The first reaction from promoters and buyers is always the same … ”I didn’t realize that you were that good and actually played guitar.” With the single “Get Out” going to radio, the world will see how unique Clare Dunn, her music and her live performance is in the world of country music.

This is going to be an “Evening of Fun” to get your heart pumping. Make plans now to come “Chill It” with us.

January / February 2015

17

Grower Profile

Kevin Skinner – At Home and Happy

HODGES – Kevin Skinner had just finished working in his chicken houses and had come back to his house for a shower when his phone began to ring. Friends from nearby Hackleburg called to ask for help after a tornado had struck the small rural town. He and his daughter, Paige, got in his truck to go help, but, as they were leaving, a tornado struck. Kevin remembers seeing his poultry houses “leaving.”

Fearful for his wife, Tracy, and his younger daughter, Hailey, he tried to turn back, but found downed power lines blocking his way. He rushed to his brother’s house and borrowed a four-wheeler and headed home.

When he and Paige arrived home, they found that not only were the chicken houses gone, so was their home.

Fortunately, Tracy and Hailey had survived by huddling around Kevin’s massive gun safe. Everything else was gone. Still, Kevin was thankful even in the gloom. “The good Lord was shining on us,” he says.

With his home gone and his poultry houses gone, Kevin set to work quickly clearing debris. His home was new, and the home in which he and his family had previously lived (he and his dad had just renovated it for his grandparents) were both destroyed.

Kevin had only been in the poultry business for three years when the tornado hit. His three houses, 54’ x 600,’ were basically new, and he was growing a big bird for Pilgrim’s. He knew that he wanted to rebuild, but wasn’t sure that he wanted to continue growing an eight-pound bird.

He began talking with Tom Lewis and Joe Bolding of Marshall Durbin. They offered him the opportunity to grow a four-pound bird. So, less than a year later, with his new houses built, the first load of chicks from the Marshall Durbin hatchery in Moulton was off loaded.

Since then, he has seen an ownership change at the company. Marshall Durbin is now Mar-Jac Poultry. Tom Lewis is still production manager and Joe Bolding is broiler manager for Mar-Jac Poultry.

Before getting into the poultry business in 2008, Kevin had worked in the construction industry with his father, since coming home from the U.S. Army. In the Army he had served as a generator service technician with a physiological warfare group assigned to the 82 Airborne Brigade. He had completed more than 40 jumps before his discharge.

It was while on leave that he met Tracy, or rather remet Tracy. They had grown up together, but with her being six years younger, they had never been interested in each other. That all changed one night when he had

18

January / February 2015

come home and was cruising around Hackleburg. They met and started dating, getting married as soon as he got out of the Army.

He had worked with his father in construction, building homes, before the Army, now he came back to it. He also bought some land and began raising cattle and hogs.

The place had a home on it, so they renovated it and moved in. This was the home that he and his father rerenovated for his elderly grandparents. Later Kevin would build a larger home for his growing family. Both homes were no more that 100 feet apart on a hill overlooking verdant pasture land. It was on this land, in 2008, he built his first three chicken houses.

Since his home’s destruction, Kevin and Tracy have rebuilt on the same spot. This time they have added a reinforced basement for added security. The basement has a kitchen and a bath. In fact the basement is so well finished that Kevin’s daughter, Paige, her husband, John Isabell, and their nine-month old-son, Asher Lane, live there while they attend college.

Paige is hoping to get into nursing school, after finishing at Northwest-Shoals Community College. John is studying to be a teacher. Kevin’s second daughter, Hailey,

Alabama Poultry Magazine

“The good Lord was shining on us.” Kevin Skinner

is a junior at Hackleburg High School.

Kevin enjoys having his girls at home. He is very fond of his son-in-law also, but it’s his “little ol’ knotty headed grandson” that seems to give him the most pleasure.

On the site where his grandparent’s home stood, there is now a mobile home. His 96-year-old grandmother lives there. In fact, the whole family lives within several miles of each other. Kevin is at heart a homeboy, he’s happiest when he is there on the farm close to all he loves.

When he’s not farming, he enjoys woodworking.

Down the hill from the house he has set up a fantastic wood shop. Here he builds things for his home and family.

He has built hope chests for both daughters. For his latest project, he and Hailey built a scale replica of Edgar Allen’s boyhood home for a school project.

The Skinners are very involved in their church, Hodges Convention Baptist. They are also happy to be involved with the good folks at Mar-Jac Poultry. It is a relationship that they hope will last a long time.

(Above) Cell phone photographs capture the devastation of Kevin Skinner’s three chicken houses. He is grateful for the money provided by the AP&EA Tornado Relief Fund. He is also thankful for all of the support that his family received during the crisis from their church and even total strangers.

A lady in Tennessee found a photograph of Tracy and her grandmother, carried there by the tornado. Somehow she was able to find an address and sent the picture along with $50 to help the family.

(Left) Kevin and his “little ol’ knotty headed” grandson, Asher Lane Isabell. (Above) Kevin and Asher with Tracy, Paige and Hailey.

Alabama Poultry Magazine

January / February 2015

19

Poultry Honors

Ag Alumni Association President Sutton Gibbs, Mary Virginia Moore, Ag Alumni Association Vice President Paul Pinyan and (inset) Dr. Claude Moore

Ag Alumni Association President Sutton Gibbs, Milborn Chesser and Ag Alumni Association Vice President Paul Pinyan

Alabama Poultrymen Recognized at Auburn Ag Hall of Honor

AUBURN – On Thursday, Feb. 2, at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel & Conference Center at Grand National, the Auburn University Agricultural Alumni Association held its annual Alabama Agricultural Hall of Honor Banquet.

Two outstanding Alabama poultrymen were included in the Hall of Honor.

Winner of the Alabama Agricultural Pioneer Award, Cullman native, Dr. Claude Moore was head of the Auburn University department of poultry science for 27 years.

He was a 1947 graduate of Alabama Polytechnic Institute, before moving on to earn a master’s degree from Kansas State University and a Ph.D. from Perdue University. He returned to Auburn in 1956 as an associate professor in poultry science.

Moore, a geneticist, was a leader in the development of the Alabama poultry industry. An important part of his work was listening closely to the industry to determine where research could be most effectively applied. Under his leadership, the poultry science department grew in relevancy. He was able to attract outstanding faculty and students, thus setting a benchmark for excellence.

Dr. Moore, an Alabama Poultry Hall of Fame member, passed away in 2008. He is survived by his wife, Mary Virginia, five children and 13 grandchildren.

20

January / February 2015

Milborn Chesser, a Korean War veteran, graduated from Auburn in 1955 with a degree in agricultural education.

Two years later he earned his master’s degree in poultry husbandry.

As an undergraduate, he sold his car and used the money as a down payment on a small poultry farm in Fyffe. Over the years that farm grew to 200 acres

Alabama Poultry Magazine

and 17 poultry houses.

Concerned by the lack of financing available to poultry farmers, in 2003, he and a group of investors established the Bank of Fyffe, It later became Horizon Bank, and still serves farmers in northeast Alabama.

Chesser and his wife, Anne, have two daughters and four grandchildren.

AP&EA Seeking Nominations for Alabama Poultry Hall of Fame Do you know an Alabamian who has pioneered an idea or some new technique in poultry and egg production, processing or marketing that has led to a stronger and better Alabama poultry industry? Do you know someone who has through the years promoted the general welfare of the poultry industry by giving their time or services?

Perhaps the person you’re thinking about has done none of these things, but still you know he deserves to be recognized for his lifelong interest in and support of the industry.

It is possible that the very person you’re thinking about could be en-

shrined in the 2015 Alabama Poultry Hall of Fame! While it is possible, it cannot happen unless that deserving person is nominated! Mail your nomination the AP&EA office today.

SELECTION CRITERIA 1. Nominations may be made on any type paper or letterhead, 8 1/2 x 11.

2. Nominations close May 15, 2015.

Mail nominations to: Alabama Poultry Hall of Fame Selection Committee P. O. Box 240 Montgomery, AL 36101-0240 4. The inductee(s) is chosen by a

Alabama Poultry Magazine

committee of Hall of Fame members appointed by the AP&EA president.

5. A living and/or posthumous inductee may be selected.

6. An inductee does not have to be selected every year.

7. The inductee will be honored at a special Hall of Fame event in the recipient’s hometown.

This is your opportunity to nominate a mentor or someone that you admire who has made outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the Alabama poultry industry. Who knows, one day, someone might be writing a recommendation for you.

January / February 2015

21

Poultry Education

ing and finish. On egg-type hens they learn to judge pigmentation; handling qualities and abdominal capacity; constitutional vigor; plumage condition; and head and head parts. They also learned to judge ready-to-cook carcasses and how to grade using USDA quality grades.

Grading shell eggs according to USDA standards was also a part of the curriculum.

An additional part of the program included hands-on experience in judging further processed poultry meat products, both boneless and bone-in.

Auburn Holds Poultry Judging Workshop

AUBURN – Beginning on Feb. 10, Auburn University College of Agriculture hosted the two-day FFA Spring Judging Clinic. FFA students from acrosss Alabama came together to learn how to better judge all forms of livestock for competition.

The poultry judging clinic was held

in the pavillion at Ag Heritage Park, with Poultry Science Club members conducting the workshops. Several hundred junior high and high school students went through the different stations.

The students learned about judging live birds for body conformation, flesh-

Alabama Poultry & Egg Association represented the industry at two separate career expos in February. The first, East Alabama Workforce Investment Network held its Career Discovery 2015 on Feb. 17 - 18, in the Auburn University Bibb-Eaves Memorial Coliseum, targeting eighth graders. Some 4,000 kids came by the AP&EA booth and were able to hold live chicks.

The second event was held at Dothan’s Landmark Park on Feb. 26 - 27. Sponsored by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, the Ag Career Expo focused on high school students from Houston, Henry, Barbour, Geneva and Dale counties over the successive days.

More than 400 students participated.

These events are an important way to get the poultry message out to kids who otherwise might never hear it.

AP&EA Participates in Career Expos

22

January / February 2015

Alabama Poultry Magazine

Carson Riley of Maplesville takes a close look

Industry News

Yield Plus Male from Aviagen Gains Popularity

HUNTSVILLE. – Aviagen, the world’s leading poultry breeding company, announced today that placements of its Yield Plus Male are exceeding expectations as poultry breeders in North America are discovering the new high-yield line helps them produce broilers with more breast meat.

Commercially available in 2014, the Yield Plus Male is Aviagen’s first offering in its Specialty Males line portfolio. When crossed with any Aviagen branded female breeder, the Yield Plus Male has been shown to

24

January / February 2015

deliver superior broiler performance with increased breast meat yield, improved liveability, and better FCR, plus boost breeder performance.

“Delivering excellent live and processing performance, the Yield Plus Male sires broiler progeny that can compete across multiple poultry markets, from multi-purpose bird programs to large bird deboning programs,” said Kevin McDaniel, president, Aviagen North America. “As the flagship offering among Aviagen Specialty Males, the Yield Plus Male represents what’s possible with care-

Alabama Poultry Magazine

ful breeding and disciplined selection.”

Currently available in the United States and Canada, the Yield Plus Male is part of a new portfolio of Aviagen Specialty Males designed to meet specific performance traits in their broiler breeder stock, such as high breast meat yield or specific climate tolerance. Aviagen Specialty Males receive full technical and customer support.

For more information about Aviagen or its products visit www.aviagen.com.

Practical Applications

Are You on Top of Your Rodent Control Program?

Jess Campbell, Dennis Brothers, Jeremiah Davis, Jim Donald & Gene Simpson National Poultry Technology Center – Auburn University College of Agriculture – www.poultryhouse.com

Don’t allow rodents to ruin your investment! Poultry farms are excellent places for rodents to not only survive but THRIVE unless you are taking the necessary precautions to prevent them from calling your farm home. Poultry houses are warm in the winter, cool in the summer, provide plenty of food and water, have unlimited places to hide, and on some farms, have virtually no predators. That is, unless you are on top of your rodent control program. If you can’t remember the last time you restocked your bait stations and you have been seeing signs of rodents you might be surprised at what you find. If you see one rodent during the day there are likely hundreds more living on your farm and you may never find them unless you look. If you only see one mouse, the chances are you have a much bigger problem than you realize and it is time to focus on your rodent control program.

Rodent damage in insulated wall: This thermal image reveals multiple rodent tunnels inside a solid insulated wall that is otherwise invisible. The exterior metal on the outside of the wall was not fastened tightly at the top or bottom. The cold spot at the top of the wall is the top entry point allowing the rodents into the attic and the lower dark spots to the right show entry points from the ground.

This is a perfect harbor for rodents. We found insulation along the outside of this wall where rodents were entering and leaving. tunnel door seals, and generator components. Rodents have been known to damage electrical wires, which can cause fires and do serious damage to generators and transfer switches, putting your farm at risk of a catastrophic electrical failure.

menolepiasis, capilariasis, and ascaridiasis. Because of their ability to harbor many pathogens, rodents can also carry over disease organisms from one flock to the next flock, even if the facilities are vigorously cleaned and disinfected. Rodent control should be a part of the disinfection program to eliminate disease carryover.

Eat Feed: A single rat can eat as much as 40 pounds of feed a year. That is the equivalent to feed consumed by four 5pound broilers in one flock. Some experts say that for every rodent you see there are likely 50 or more that you don’t see.

So, if one rat eats 40 pounds of feed a year, then his colony is eating about 2,000 pounds of chicken feed every year. Are rodents eating away at flock feed conversion and income?

Rats eat breeder eggs too!

Constantly Chew: The upper incisor teeth of rodents continue to grow throughout their life and they must continually chew to keep their teeth from becoming too long, so they chew on poultry houses and equipment such as lumber, insulation, electrical and control wiring, ceiling material, curtains, rubber tunnel door seals, and generator components. Rodents have been known to damage electrical wires, which can cause fires and do serious damage to generators and transfer switches, putting your farm at risk of a catastrophic electrical failure.

Large rodent nest in attic: Honestly we weren’t brave enough to find out the species or population in this colony. The picture is self-explanatory; the main entrance is to the left (sun shining through hole), the main den is to the right, and this attic inspection is over. Obviously this farm is well overdue for a new rodent control program.

Don’t underestimate the importance of inspecting attics and protecting them with poison.

Rodent Problems to Consider

Harbor and Transmit Diseases: Rodents can easily contaminate feed and water with urine and feces. They carry diseases such as salmonellosis, colibacillosis, coryza, pasteurellosis, mycoplasmosis, hemorrhagic enteritis, hy-

26

January / February 2015

Alabama Poultry Magazine

Elusive and Nocturnal: Rodent infestations are not always apparent until we find the obvious signs of damage to the houses or equipment on the farm. There are literally hundreds of places they can hide from us. They may have a nest in the attic of a house like the one in the picture below. They can burrow in the dirt pads, litter, and any small crevice and go unseen. Much of the damage that is done by rodents is done at night when we are away from the farm, the lights are off, and the birds are not active. Are rodents working behind the scenes and on 3rd shift on your poultry farm?

Quickly Reproduce: Rodents become sexually mature around 2 to 3 months of age with a gestation period between 21-25 days. A single female may produce as many as 70 offspring that mature and colonize in a year. A single pair of rodents can infiltrate a poultry farm and establish a vast colony quickly and without notice. If you see one it is likely you are not dealing with just one mouse but an entire colony or more!

Rodents have strength in numbers! Some of these rules of thumb should get your attention. If you see: (Tabler et al., 2014)

the attic from each attic access hole in both directions to increase baited area.

8. For houses that have a concrete or lumber ledge on the interior wall of the house one bait station every 100feet along the interior of the house may also be necessary.

All bait stations must be cleaned out thoroughly every year by pressure washing. All bait stations must be serviced and restocked with new bait of an alternating active ingredient at least every four months. All cobwebs must be removed with a stiff bristle paint brush. Watch out for black widow spiders in stations so use gloves for your safety and to keep from contaminating bait and stations with human scent.

Below are some possible locations to consider installing bait stations if you don’t already have a successful program.

• Rodent signs only ≈ 1 to 100 on the premises • Occasional sightings at night ≈ 100 to 500 on the premises • Nightly sightings and occasional daytime sightings ≈ 500 to 1,000 on the premises • Several daytime sightings ≈ over 1,000 and up to 5,000 on the premises

There are two main basic steps to any successful rodent control program. Step 1: Eradicate (kill) all possible existing rodents. Step 2: Keep any others from visiting or moving in – alive.

Step 1: Eradicate (kill) all possible existing rodents.

1. Identify the rodents on your farm. Mice leave behind rice-sized feces and rat feces are closer to the size of a bean. Know your enemy and consult your local equipment supplier for advice on helping you pick the correct bait stations, traps and poison to do the job the right way.

2. Install one bait station close to each corner of the generator shed and one under the generator.

3. Install bait stations a maximum of every 100-feet along exterior perimeter of all poultry houses. Some experts may suggest more frequent spacing of 80-feet.

4. Install approximately two bait stations inside every evaporative cooling plenum room (dog house).

5. Install two bait stations in every control room. Install one additional bait station around feed bins.

6. Install one bait station on both sides of every end wall door.

7. Loose rodent meal or block bait should be thrown into

Alabama Poultry Magazine

January / February 2015

27

Step 2: Keep other visitors from moving in – alive.

Once all possible rodents have been eradicated from the farm and there are no signs of rodent life, the next step is to keep other rodents away. It is okay if you can’t keep them all away, but only you can keep them from living there. This is an ongoing and extremely important step that must not be taken lightly, especially if other poultry farms are in close proximity. Routinely monitoring and maintaining all rodent bait stations, meal baits and traps are the only ways to successfully keep rodents from establishing a home on your farm and damaging your equipment.

Another way to keep rodents away from your poultry farm is to make sure the farm is kept as clean as possible.

This includes eliminating brush and garbage piles, keeping garbage cans clean and having lids, keeping spilled feed cleaned up, keeping water from standing around houses, keeping the grass cut short between and around all houses.

Rodent control pertains to incinerator sheds, hay barns, bird freezer sheds, and other offices or buildings that are in close proximity to poultry houses. Control rooms should be kept clean and orderly and generator sheds should not have supplies piled up on the floor, especially around the generator.

Rodents in generator: It may not be clear at first but there are two generations of dead mice here just inside the grill over the internal fan of the generator: the noticeably dead rodent at the top and the less apparent remains of a relative at the bottom right. The generator is the most important and expensive piece of equipment on any poultry farm and the first place to start and maintain rodent control.

The generator is a great place to stay because it is warm as long as the block heater is operational, there are multiple things to chew on, and this is one of the least frequent places for humans to visit.

Well, it was a great place to stay until the generator exercised. The generator shed is the most important place for rodent control!

28

January / February 2015

If you look closely you will see that a rodent has chewed through the exterior sheath of insulation on this black cable as well as the insulation directly surrounding the wires inside the cable exposing the copper on both wires. The scary thing is these are the main alarm wires running from the control room.

At least four times a year all houses must be inspected for possible places where rodents can or have entered the houses. Mice can gain access through and around evaporative cooling systems, damaged exterior metal, corrugations in metal, around doors, through curtains, through fans, through vents, around the eaves, through plumbing entrances, through feed auger entrances and any number of other places. Mice can fit through a hole the size of a dime and rats through the size of a quarter. On some farms it may be impossible to fill all the holes, so you may have to be more aggressive with bait stations.

Regardless of the manufacturer of meal baits, soft baits, or stations, make sure you read and understand all instructions and directions before installing stations and poisons.

The instructions are there to help you succeed, so take the time to do some homework and do it right the first time. The last thing you want to do is to harm a child, yourself or a pet companion, so think safety first.

Don’t let rodents catch you off guard. The most successful rodent control programs are PROACTIVE programs.

Considerable damage is often done on the farm before the grower even realizes the rodents are present. Rodent control programs must be put into place on new farms beginning on day one when the farm is completed (or before). Don’t forget that just because you don’t see rodents, doesn’t mean they are not present. You just haven’t discovered the problem yet.

A little time taken to thoroughly inspect for rodents and restock bait stations will go a long way toward preventing serious damage to your farm. Most poultry companies already have specific details and guidelines in place for implementing their recommended rodent control program, so ask your service technician for details.

References Rowland, R. 2011. IVESCO Technical Services Report. Rodent Control Program for Broiler and Breeder Houses.

Tabler, T., Farnell, M., Wells, J., Yakout, H. and Liang, Y. 2014. Publication No. 2824. Controlling Rodents on the Poultry Farm. Mississippi State University Extension Service. Starkville, MS.

Alabama Poultry Magazine

Comparing Old Light Bulbs and New light Bulbs: A look at light quantity, direction, hours of life and operational cost Jess Campbell, Dennis Brothers, Jeremiah Davis, Jim Donald & Gene Simpson National Poultry Technology Center – Auburn University College of Agriculture – www.poultryhouse.com

The significance of the directed light from LED bulbs vs. the “light in all directions” of the older bulbs such as CC, incandescent and CFL is that all of the LED light is directed to bird level, while only about half the light of the others reaches the birds. The table below shows show that a 6 watt LED bulb puts more lumens on the floor than a 60 watt incandescent bulb (530 vs 435 lumens) and the LED is 90 percent more efficient to operate. In addition the LED bulb has a 40,000 hour life while the incandescent has a life of only 1200 hours. Many poultry growers in Alabama have not changed their lights to higher efficiency lighting. There can be a significant payback for poultry growers who make the change to new lighting technology. See NPTC Newsletter #81 for a full update on LED lighting in poultry housing.

LED bulbs are very energy-efficient and direct 100 percent of light to the floor, giving much more cost-effective lighting.

ADVERTISING INDEX

AIS Generator Service Alabama Ag / Alabama Farm Credit Alfa Insurance American Proteins Aviagen Cumberland Hired-Hand Dreisilker Electic Motors Ecodrum First South Farm Credit Jones-Hamilton PLT Lee Energy Solutions Northwest Envirofan Randy Jones Ins. Agency Son Up Real Estate Southwest Agri-Plastics Sunbelt Rentals

30

January / February 2015

The light from incandescent, cold cathode (CC) and compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs (above) is multi directional – about 50 percent of the light from these bulbs reaches the birds.

The light from LED bulbs (above) is directed – 100 percent of the light reaches the birds.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg. pg.

22 5 11 31 24 15 8 20 7 29 2 14 32 9 25 26

AP&EA “Big Bass” Fishing Tournament Friday, May 8, 2015 Lake Guntersville

“Evening of Fun” Golf Tournament Friday, June 5, 2015 Limestone Springs Golf Course

“Evening of Fun” Concert Saturday, June 6, 2015 Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, Birmingham

County Association Meetings Cullman County Poultry & Egg Association Annual Meeting Saturday, April 18, 2015, 6:30 p.m.

Alabama Poultry Magazine

Cullman Civic Center