AP&EA P.O. Box 240 Montgomery, AL 36101 Address Service Requested
July/August 2018 Vol. 13 No. 4
Board of Directors
Officers Mitchell Pate, President, Auburn* Jason Spann, Vice President, Hanceville* Jason Shell, Treasurer, Huntsville* Casey Jones, Secretary, Hoover* Kenneth Sanders, Immediate Past President, Brundidge* Directors Greg Abercrombie, Valhermoso Springs Johnny Adcock, Woodland Lou Ayers, Jasper Randy Caudill, Guntersville Jarrod Goodman, Snead Ben Gore, Cullman Randall Ennis, Tanner Tim Holmes, Decatur Harold Hunt, Gadsden Clint Lauderdale, Hanceville Neil Martin, Dothan David Massey, Enterprise Kevin McDaniel, Huntsville Dr. Shannon Morgan, Huntsville Shaun Morris, Eufaula Mike Pigg, Montgomery John Pittard, Guntersville John Roberts, Cullman Keith Rhodarmer, Collinsville Roddy Sanders, Gordo Steve Smith, Hanceville Rod Thomas, Montgomery Kevin Touchstone, Russellville Ryan Turner, Guntersville* Stanley Usery, Athens* Brad Williams, Troy Len Windham, Ariton Tony Wood, Brantley Advisors Vernon Abney, Auburn Dr. Don Conner, Auburn University James Donald, Auburn University Dr. Joe Hess, Auburn University Jacob Davis, Montgomery Dr. Tony Frazier, Montgomery *Executive Committee Members
AP&EA STAFF
President’s Message
I want to thank Kenneth Sanders on a fantastic year for the Association under his presidency. He’s built a great foundation for me as I take over as president. I also would like to thank my wife, Beth, and two wonderful children, Mitch and Susanna, who have supported me during my career. As you know the poultry industry at times can be very challenging to say the least. By having their support, it has truly been a blessing to work for such a wonderful group. It is an honor to be elected to serve the poultry industry as the president for the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association. Having grown up on our family poultry farm and worked in the poultry industry all my professional life, I’m excited at this newest industry challenge. I’ve seen the poultry industry from nearly every perspective and I hope my experience in production, processing, education, and research will serve me well in my effort as president to bring a heightened awareness of the poultry industry and the many benefits and opportunities that the industry brings to our state and citizens. I will continue to enhance our efforts in recruiting potential poultry science students through our involvement in career fairs across the state. I plan to continue supporting students through our 2 + 2 poultry education program at our community colleges in an effort to bring a smooth transition into Auburn’s poultry science program. I will continue to look for ways to make the Association more valuable to its members and to the general public as representing one of the state’s leading industries. In accomplishing this agenda, I will need your support and help! One last comment, we hear the term family used a lot these days but for me the poultry industry is a big family. I look around the Association and think of all the people whom I have had the honor to call friends. “It’s just amazing!” I promise that I will work hard to help protect this family and see it grow and become stronger. Again, thank you for your support; it is very important to me!
Johnny Adams – Chief Executive Officer 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
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Featuring This Issue
Governmental Affairs Association News AP&EA Annual Meeting Mitchell Pate Takes Charge AP&EA Sporting Clays Tournaments Poultry Business VIP Profile: Farm Systems,Inc. The Chicken Shack Wins Auburn Happenings: Graduations Practical Applications Calendar of Events
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pg. 4 pg. 6 pg. 8 pg. 14 pg. 18 pg. pg. pg. pg. pg.
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Governmental Affairs Rep. Roby Hosts Ag Chairman Conaway for Alabama Agriculture Tour
MONTGOMERY – On July 8, U.S. Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL) and House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway (R-TX) completed an agriculture tour in Alabama’s Second Congressional District. Throughout the day, Rep. Roby and Chairman Conaway made stops in Pike, Coffee, and Geneva counties to have conversations with farmers and local leaders in southeast Alabama. This visit comes during a key time for our nations agriculture policy as the House and Senate recently passed their versions of the farm bill and will soon be working out differences before sending the final bill to President Trump’s desk. Rep. Roby and Chairman Conaway held a large farmers’ roundtable discussion in conjunction with the Alabama Farmer’s Federation at the Pike County Cattlemen Association. They then went to private farms in Coffee and Geneva counties for tours and briefings on their respective crops and operations.
Rep. Roby expressed gratitude to the Chairman for the time he dedicated to her second district farm constituents. “It was a great Rep. Mike Conaway Rep. Martha Roby day visiting farms and discussing agriDuring the presentation in Troy, it was disclosed that Conculture policy in the Wiregrass. I deeply gress had provided $600 million for a new broadband pilot appreciate House program in the new farm bill. This funding is a significant Agriculture Commit- increase in resources to build rural broadband infrastructee Chairman Mike ture – however, it is much more. With the flexibility that this Conaway and his authority provides, there will be a unique opportunity to inwife, Suzanne, for novate the way the federal government invests in broadband making themselves infrastructure, for effective high speed internet connectivity available to the farm- where it’s most needed in rural America for 21st Century ers in Alabama’s Sec- productivity and quality of life. ond District. I believe it was a truly valuable experience for look forward to working alongside my the people I represent to have the oppor- colleagues to deliver a smart, strong tunity to discuss with me and the ag farm bill to the president for his signachairman the agriculture policies before ture soon.” Congress, especially the farm bill. I
Free Renewable Energy Assessments Available For Alabama Farms and Rural Businesses!
A new program is available to assist Alabama poultry growers, egg farmers, and other Alabama farms and rural businesses with renewable energy. The Alabama Renewable Energy Assessment Program is offering free renewable energy assessments for a limited time on a first-come, first-served basis. Funded through USDA Rural Development, the program is operated by Alabama’s Mountains, Rivers and Valleys RC&D Council and EnSave, Inc. Both organizations have a history of collaborating on energy projects serving the Alabama poultry industry. “Farmers are increasing looking at renewable energy, like solar, to save money over the long term,” says Mike Roden, executive director of Alabama’s Mountains, Rivers & Valleys RC&D. “With all the options available, it makes
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sense to get an assessment to ensure you are going down the right path and prepare you for securing other funding. Anyone interested in exploring renewables should give us a call!” The renewable energy assessments serve multiple purposes. The assessment provides a third-party evaluation that determines a proper size for a project (such as solar or wind) based on how much energy the farm wants to offset. It also provides unbiased information on the return-on-investment and lifetime financial projections to aid in business decision-making. Most importantly, the assessment can be used to apply for the Rural Energy for America Program, which offers grants up to 25 percent of project cost and loan guarantees up to 75 percent of project cost. “With good funding available for
Alabama Poultry Magazine
renewable energy projects, the assessment is the first step in unlocking available grant and loan funding,” says Craig Metz, president and CEO of EnSave. “Poultry and egg producers are smart to consider renewable energy for the farm, and this program provides a no-risk, free assessment to help evaluate those options.” Program funding is limited, and the assessments are expected to go fast. Interested farms should call EnSave directly at (800) 732-1399 to sign up or ask any questions. After applying, participants submit twelve months of energy use history and any pertinent information on a planned project, and receive their assessment within eight weeks of providing the information. Contact: Jacob Lent, EnSave, (800) 732-1399, jacobl@ensave.com
Association News
George Walker and his wife, Doris.
Drew Wear, Cash Kirksey and CCP&EA President Casey Smith
Scholarship winners: Jake Millican, Josie Perigo and Laura Beth Robertson. Not pictured – Carliegh Davis.
Cullman and Marshall County Associations Hold Annual Meetings
On Saturday, July 21, the Cullman County Poultry & Egg Association held its annual meeting at the Cullman Civic Center. As in prior years, donations were made to nine local charities from money raised by selling John Deere Gator raffle tickets. There were also donations made to countywide ag departments at Cullman County schools.
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There was also the induction of George Walker into the Cullman County Poultry Hall of Fame. After hundreds of door prizes were given out, Drew Wear won the Gator. On Friday, July 27, the Marshall County Poultry & Egg Association held its annual meeting at Civitan Park on the shore of Lake Guntersville. The highlight of the evening was
Alabama Poultry Magazine
the presentation of scholarships to children of poultry growers. The scholarship money was raised by selling raffle tickets for another Gator, which was won by Dan Allen of Allen Farm Solutions. Officers for the coming year were elected at both meetings, with large crowds attending both. There were also a number of vendors on hand.
The weather was balmy, unlike last years storms, at the 2018 A&EA Annual Meeting at the Sandestin Hilton. On Sunday, July 15, at the “Welcome to the Beach” get-together for sponsors and board members, it was a time to meet new folks and catch-up with friends. The food and conversion was flowing well when AP&EA President Kenneth Sanders welcomed and thank our generous sponsors. This was the first year to introduce our new “super” chicken to the hotel. Sporting the AP&EA logo and standing in at 12 feet tall, with the appropriate girth, he was the dominant rooster on the scene. Truly awe-inspiring, he let everyone know that chicken was big business in Alabama. The next morning, as most were trying to get in an extra hour of sleep, the fire alarm sounded throughout the building. Evacuation was suddenly the order of the day, and elevators were off limits. Coming in to the lobby area, groggy visitors were met with the distinct smell of smoke. This gave everyone an extra motivation to get outside. Fortunately, there was no serious damage, and, in about half an hour, we were all allowed to return to our rooms. A small grease fire in the kitchen turned out to be the reason for making us temporary refugees on the pool deck. There was just enough time to get in a quick shower before it was time to head down to the morning breakfast business meeting. It was good to see that the fire had not delayed breakfast being served, and that there was lots of coffee on hand. Kudos to the Hilton staff for making the best out of a strange situation. Even as our breakfast dishes were being taken away, AP&EA President Kenneth Sanders was welcoming us once again. He began by thanking all of our sponsors and recognizing them and their representatives in attendance. He spoke briefly about the great experience he had as Association president, calling it “the best non-paying job I have ever had.” He continued, “I have met a lot of good people. I have traveled a lot of the state and I thank God, whom I believe controls all things.” Then it was time for the committee and advisory reports. Dr. Paul Patterson, dean of the Auburn University College of Agriculture, led off with a report on the progress and plans for the Charles C. Miller, Jr. Poultry Research & Education Center in a PowerPoint presentation. He said, “I could not be happier. I am very excited about the development of this research facility.” He was joined by Dr. Don Conner, head of the Auburn University department of poultry science, who showed a rendering of the new administration/visitor center building, which he called the “Flagship.” The 8,000 sq. ft. facility will house a classroom and visitor center as well as the Alabama Poultry Hall of Fame. Mark Wilton, Auburn University College of Agriculture director of development, credited the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association with providing the seed money for the development of the first project phase – the feed mill. He thanked AP&EA, AP&EA Allied Committee and the AP&EA Heavy-Penny-a-Hen Committee. He also acknowledged an initial gift of $500,000 from D&F Equipment Sales of Crossville to begin construction of the processing plant on the Miller Center campus. D&F is also helping with the project design.
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Alabama Poultry Magazine
Dr. Conner reported that the 2+2 Program was going well and that the department was expecting around 80 students enrolling this fall. He also reported that there had been significant turnover in the poultry science faculty as “baby-boom” faculty was retiring, and nine new faculty members hired. Dr. Paul Brown presented the Alabama Cooperative Extension System report on a study, presented in the Alabama Poultry Magazine in the last issue, detailing the economic impact to a community of the construction of one 66’ x 600’ poultry house. It is the same, he stated, as the construction and stocking of a Dollar General store. And, because most poultry houses are built in pairs, that impact doubles. Alabama A&M University is open for collaboration in the area of food safety, food borne illnesses and microbiology, was the message from Dr. Allen Malone. He said, “We are open for collaboration with industry and business professionals, either poultry or egg producers .” Barbara Jenkins of U. S. Poultry & Egg Association explained to the group the various poultry science student recruiting and placement opportunities that are available. Their college student career program at IPPE will bring in 700 students from around the country to interview for internships and jobs with industry professionals. She also gave us the dates of the 2019 IPPE. It will be held in February because of the Superbowl being played in Atlanta. The dates are Tuesday, Feb. 12, through Thursday, Feb. 14. AP&EA Associate Director Ray Hilburn led a discussion and review of the recent “Evening of Fun” and grower seminar before the concert. There was discussion about how to stimulate more grower involvement. Casey Jones, in reporting on the activities of the Allied Committee, thanked each member for their hard work and cooperation. He told the audience that the $42,000 raised, through their golf tournament, fishing tournament, and smoked chicken sales had gone into poultry science scholarships and $12,000 had gone into the 2+2 Poultry Education Program. He announced the Allied Scholarship Golf Tournament for Friday, Oct. 19, at Chesley Oaks Golf Course. Grower Committee Chairman Stan Usery reported that following Kenneth Sanders’ example, he was working to build chapters in north Alabama. State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier reported a partnership with USDA in order for poultry growers and integrators to have access to indemnity money should there be an outbreak of low path AI. Jim Donald, reporting on biosystems engineering, revealed a program in the works to build a full-size solar powered poultry house. He also announced a poultry house construction school planned for Nov. 6-7, and a cold weather seminar planned for Oct. 16. .Jacob Davis, in giving the Alabama Department of Education report, said that 4,000 FFA students, more than ever, had participated in district events. He also reported that getting qualified ag teachers continues to be a problem. Continued on pg. 30
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The AP&EA Awards Banquet
For our silent auction this year, we incorporated a new online bidding system, and for a while, folks were a little unsure. But once they had downloaded the special app, things went wonderfully well. With the fun of the silent auction finished and the food served, outgoing President Kenneth Sanders welcomed everyone. He spoke briefly about how much he had enjoyed his year in office, and thanked the board and staff for its help in making the year memorable. A lot of those memories had to do with riding all over Alabama with AP&EA Associate Director Ray Hilburn to attend grower meetings. That’s why he surprised Ray by presenting him with the Presidential Award. Ray, for once in his life, was too surprised to say anything ... much. Dr. Gene Simpson, the guru of practicality with the National Poultry Technology Center was presented with the Distinguished Service Award. Gene, an agricultural economist, has, for years, been the man most responsible for guarding the growers’ wallet and making sure that increasing the growers’ profitability was always foremost in any research project or new product. With retirement imminent, it is for sure that he will be missed at the NPTC.
2018 Evening of Fun Ticket Sales Awards
EOF Ticket Sales Chairman Mitchell Pate handed out the ticket sales awards.
The Top Salesman for $200 Tickets The Top Salesman to Broiler Growers Award goes to Kim Taylor with Ameri- Award, also known as the Rhonell Word Award, for the second year, can Proteins. went to Judy Dutton, Tyson Foods, Snead.
The Top Salesman to Breeder Growers Also accepting the Tyson Team Quota Award, also known as the Harold Award was Barry Smith and Judy DutRobinson Award, went to Barry Smith, ton. Tyson Foods, Snead. Barry won the award for five straight years..
New Purchaser Award went to Kevin Mitchell Pate accepted the Top Rookie Thomas Brown and Roger Witt accept Jason Shell accepts the Team Quota Parnell, AlaTrade Foods, Albertville, salesperson award for Brad Trapp the Top Team based n total number of Award for the Allied Team. for the second time. (inset), Wayne Farms, Decatur. tickets sold, Top Team based on largest percent of quota sold and Team Quota Award for Koch Foods, Gadsden.
Christie Stockberger accepted the Team Quota Award for Keystone Foods, Eufaula.
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Keith Rhodarmer accepts the Team Quota Award for Koch Foods, Collinsville
Alabama Poultry Magazine
Keith Martin accepts the Team Quota Award for Mar-Jac Poultry
Time For A Change In Leadership
AP&EA President Kenneth Sanders began the festivities by introducing the Executive Committee of the Association. He thanked them for their unwavering support through out the year. He also introduced a number of dignitaries, including Dr. Paul Patterson , dean of Auburn University College of Agriculture, Barbara Jenkins, executive director of the U.S. Poultry Foundation, Dr. Paul Brown, associate director of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System at Auburn University; and Dr. Allen Malone, 1890 Administrator of the Alabama A&M Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Saying goodbye to a great leader is always a bittersweet experience. Watching Kenneth Sanders step down as president of Alabama Poultry & Egg Association was no exception. His leadership this year has been inspirational. When he took the stage for the final time to pass the gavel to a new president, many of us in the audience felt some pangs of sadness. Fortunately, with Mitchell Pate coming in as our new president, the association will be in good hands. President Mitchell Pate was gracious in his praise for his predecessor, and pledged to continue his work in encouraging growers to take a greater part in the Association. With wide ranging experience in all facets of the poultry industry, Mitchell brings an added dimension to the position. He also pledged to work to bring a higher awareness of the contributions that the poultry industry brings to Alabama. With the speeches and ceremonies finished, it was time to get down to the fun part of the evening – the live auction. Once again, to everyone’s delight, auctioneer supreme, Kent Stanford, worked his magic to sell the trips, hunts, grills and guns provided by generous sponsors. Needless to say, a good time was had by all. Ken Taylor might have missed the AP&EA annual meeting, but he was recognized for his contribution to the establishment of the National Poultry Technology Center. He received his Presidential Award, presented by AP&EA Immediate Past President Kenneth Sanders, on Aug. 23, at the NPTC board meeting at NPTC’s new facility on the Miller Poultry Research & Education Center campus.
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With the roar of Navy jets overhead, and a pass by an Air Force F-35, the poultry pros took to the links of the Baytowne Golf Course early on Tuesday morning, July 17, The weather was almost ideal for the time of year, with low humidity and moderate temperatures.Thirteen teams started out on the shotgun start. After all the meetings, it was good to get outside. Everyone was having a great time on the beautiful course. The play was spirited and spirits were high. The competition was always friendly. The golfing skills may have made everyone glad that they had regular jobs to go home to; still everyone had a great time.
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As usual, the hospitality of the staff at the Baytowne Golf Course was outstanding, with refreshment carts always close at hand.
1st Place: Bruce Estes, David Estes, Kevin Parnell and Hank Harbour 2nd Place: Harold Hunt, Ben Thompson, John Putnam and Rodney Nye 3rd Place: Shaun Morris, Russ Williams, Jaye Gruhn and Gary Sadler Closest to the hole: #7 - Harold Hunt; #11 - Eddie Fortner
Alabama Poultry Magazine
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Mitchell Pate Takes Charge
This coming December, Mitchell and Beth will celebrate their 37th wedding anniversary, but they’ve been sweethearts for a lot longer.
Joseph Mitchell Pate has been involved with chickens from the very beginning. Raised near Lowndesboro, Ala., where his family had two pullet houses, Mitchell began working with chickens at a very early age. It was about the same time that he met his life-long sweetheart, Beth. After graduating from Lowndes Academy, he took a job with Sylvest Farms in the processing plant, but left to attend college at Livingston University (now the University of West Alabama). Beth had enrolled in Auburn University, but graduated from Troy University School of Nursing, so it wasn’t long before Mitchell was back in Lowndesboro. This time he was again working for Sylvest, but also taking classes at Auburn University Montgomery. Beth kept encouraging him to go to Auburn. She soon had an ally in Maynard Sylvest, Mitchell’s boss. With them both pushing him, he agreed. That’s the kind of pressure a guy can’t resist. So, as Mitchell says, they “packed up their little car and headed up I-85,” and he went to college. He and Beth were married in 1981 and that fall he enrolled in Auburn University’s department of poultry science. He says, “Having worked in a poultry processing plant, I realized what great opportunities there were in the poultry industry.” Beth went to work as a nurse at Lee County Hospital, now East Alabama Regional Medical Center. In 1985, six weeks before graduation with a degree in poultry husbandry from Auburn, Mitchell called Maynard Sylvest to tell him that he was about to graduate and ready to come back to work. Sylvest congratulated him on his academic success, bit told him that there were no jobs available. Dr. Bob Brewer came to his aid and introduced him to
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Gerald Bailey, who offered Mitchell a job with Gold Kist. So, just after graduation, he and Beth packed up again and headed to Cullman. Mitchell says of Gerald Bailey, “He was one of the best mentors I have ever had.” Five years later, Harold Sylvest offered him the job of running Sylvest Farms’ hatchery in Luverne. Mitchell remembers, “It was just behind the Chicken Shack Restaurant.” In 1991, he took over the feed mill operation in Hope Hull, working there for the next 18 years. In 2006, with the retirement of George Hall, Mitchell was approached to apply for the position of manager of the Auburn poultry farm, with the title of director of the poultry research and extension center. He was interested, but he wasn’t sure how his wife, Beth, would react. He had nothing to worry about. Beth was excited about the possibility of going back to Auburn. She strongly urged him to apply for the position. He applied, went through the vetting process and was hired. When he first took the position it was with the purpose of moving the poultry farm to the new property. However, with the downturn in the economy, that project was put on the back burner. He was tasked with keeping the aging facility running for a new generation of poultry science students. In 2008, it was determined that the old feed mill was beyond repair. Plans were put in place to begin the laborious process of designing, funding and constructing a new stateof-the-art facility that could serve to educate students on animal nutrition and provide research services for the poultry industry. In 2012, that goal was achieved as the doors opened on the new 12,500-square-foot Poultry and Animal Nutrition Center. Mitchell was excited about the new facility. “With feed currently accounting for 75 percent of the cost of producing chickens, the new feed mill is going to help develop better ways to produce feeds that make it cheaper to produce animals, to decrease the cost per pound.” He was also excited about the opportunities for students to learn about the feed milling process, so, one day, no one will face the boss handing them the keys to something that
On Nov. 16, 2012, Mitchell was all smiles with the opening of the $7.1 million state-of-the-art Poultry and Animal Nutrition Center.
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they’ve never seen before, like a feed mill.” As excited as he was then, he is even more excited now with the completion of the Charles C. Miller Jr. Research and Education Center coming within sight. And, Mitchell has overseen most of the work and even helped with fund-raising. It has been a struggle, but well worth the effort. That effort will give the Auburn University department of poultry science research and education facility a preeminent position among poultry education facilities world-wide. Finishing the new administration building that will house the Alabama Poultry Hall of Fame and Visitor Center, coupled with the planned processing facility will only add to the lofty status of the Miller Center. One of the things that he enjoys most about his job, he says is, “working with the poultry industry and helping them solve problems that affect their production, We can take their problems and bring them here to our research facility and do new and innovative research.” He continues, “This cutting-edge research helps the industry by looking at new products that, two years from now, can have a positive effect on the industry.” Even more, he enjoys working with the students, most of whom spend some time working at the farm. He delights in seeing them come in as freshmen and leave as graduates, having grown through the years to become productive poultry technicians. This new facility can only enhance their experience as well as being a recruiting tool for new students. He has become close with many of them, monitoring their careers and always being available for consultation. He says it is a blessing for him to be a resource. Beth has now retired from nursing. She and Mitchell enjoy their two grandsons, and when time permits, they like to take their travel trailer on camping trips. Mitchell says that he enjoys the quiet and being alone with Beth.
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Family comes first with the Pates. (Left to right) Mitch, Jr.; Brianne, in the swing, holding Joseph Mitchell Pate, III (5 months); Mitchell and Beth; Everett Camp (22 months) and Susanna. When he’s not doing poultry-related activities, Beth and Mitchell love to go camping.
As president of the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association, he is committed to carrying on the work of his predecessor, Kenneth Sanders, especially in the are of grower involvement and outreach to the industry. He wants to bring a heightened awareness of the value of
Alabama Poultry Magazine
the poultry industry to the state, and continue to recruit new students into poultry science. Welcome AP&EA President Mitchell Pate; we look forward to your leadership for the next year.
There will be two clay shooting tournaments held for poultry growers and allied industry leaders. This was one of the projects Immediate Past President Kenneth Sanders wanted to do to encourage more grower involvement in AP&EA. Both events will start at 11:00 a.m., with lunch. Clay shooting should start around 12:00, and conclude around 3:00 p.m. Each team will consist of one allied member and three growers. The cost of each event will be $175 per allied sponsor and $20 per grower. The price will cover lunch and the cost of the shooting clay course. Each participant must furnish their own shotgun and ammunition. The course of fire will require a minimum of 100 rounds. The south Alabama tournament will be held Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, at Ravenwood Sporting Clays located at 10671 Hwy.431 South, Newville, AL 36353. Their phone number is 334-648-1440. The sporting clays manager is Chris Corley. There is a limit of 12 teams that can compete, so we will be limited to 12 allied sponsors and 36 growers. David Walker of K Supply will be cooking the meal.
Get Your Guns Ready, Cause We’re Gonna Do Some Real Shooting!
The north Alabama event will be held Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018, at CMP Talladega Marksmanship Park located at 4387 Turner Mill Road, Talladega, AL 35160. Their phone number is 256-474-4408. The sporting clays manager is Tyler Smith. There is a limit of 15 teams that can compete, so we will be limited to 15 allied sponsors and 45 growers. Lunch at this event will be provided by Jeff Sims of Animal Health International. Growers can form their own teams or can enter individually and be placed on a team or may request an allied member to shoot with, and, if there is room for you on that team, we will place you on it. All entries must be prepaid. You can call the AP&EA office at 334-265-2732 to receive a registration form or you can give them your information and team members. Cash prizes will be awarded to individuals and teams. We hope this will be a fun and successful event for the growers and allied members and, if these events fill up this year, we will expand them next year. We need your participation.
Auburn Poultry Science Awards Fortenberry For Generosity
CROSSVILLE – On Aug. 14, Larry Fortenberry of D&F Equipment Sales thought he needed to get dressed up and come into the office for group photos, but he was in for a surprise. Mitchell Pate, Mark Wilton and Dr. Don Conner of the Auburn University department of poultry science presented Fortenberry with a token of their appreciation for his generous donation and promise of design help to build the new processing facility on the Charles C. Miller Jr. Poultry Research and Education Center.
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Alabama Poultry Magazine
Poultry Business
Farm Systems Opens Ozark Store
OZARK – On July 27, Farm Systems, Inc., a longtime AP&EA VIP Sponsor, held a grand opening for its newest store. The store, on U.S. Highway 231, features a broad selection of commercial poultry equipment, but also includes hardware, sporting goods and an ample selection of firearms and shooting accessories in its 20,000 square-foot showroom J&R Lumber Company was founded by Ron Seawright in Ashville, Ala., about 30 years ago. He began building a variety of agricultural related buildings and structures, including poultry houses, across Alabama and Mississippi. His sons, including Scott, worked in the summer on various construction projects. In 2007, with Scott as a partner, he bought Farm Systems, Inc., in Oxford to supply equipment for those poultry houses that they had been building. They later went on to purchase Luverne Poultry Supply and incorporated it into the Farm Systems family. Since then they have expanded their operation into Mississippi, opening facilities in Forrest and Brookhaven, with one in the planning stage for Laurel.
Store Manager William Wingard proudly stands outside the new store with owner Scott Seawright and Area Sales Manager Michael Odom. Plans are in the works to add warehouse space to the facility.
Almost from their very beginnings, J&R Lumber/Farm Systems has supported the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association, and we appreciate that support. We are proud to have them as a VIP Sponsor.
Luverne’s Chicken Shack Voted
After some heated and deep-fried competition, on Aug. 21, The Chicken Shack of Luverne was awarded the prize for Bama’s Best Fried Chicken. The contest, sponsored by AP&EA and Alabama Poultry Producers, and produced by Simply Southern TV, pitted eight restaurants from across Alabama in a tournament bracket-style head-to-head competition to see who made the best fried chicken. Voting was carried on Simply
Southern TV’s Facebook page, with the championship vote taking place on July 21. The Chicken Shack received a plaque and prize money for their victory, plus an honorary membership in AP&EA. It’s not surprising really, the Chicken Shack prepares more than 4,000 pound of chicken a week. So, if they sell that much chicken, they must be doing it right – Bama Style.
(Left to right) Store Manager, Marissa Brown; owners Michael and Drew Money; and, presenting the honorary membership certificate, AP&EA's Ray Hilburn.
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Alabama Poultry Magazine
Auburn Happenings
Ray Hilburn and the May poultry science graduates: Thomas Knott, Chelsea Hooks, Michael Norris, Sarah Denison and Trevor Lee. Not shown: Elizabeth Shadell and August graduate Caroline Gamble.
AP&EA Hosts 112th and 113th Student Recognition & Graduation Breakfast On Sunday, May. 6, Alabama Poultry & Egg Association sponsored its 112th Student Recognition & Graduation Breakfast for Auburn University College of Agriculture graduating seniors and those receiving post graduate
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degrees, as well as parents, spouses and friends. It was held at the Ham Wilson Arena As usual, poultry science faculty and staff handled the omelet cooking chores (some better than others) and poultry science students served the grits, bacon and other groceries. This past May there were six poultry science graduates, while the August graduation featured only one graduate. Associate Director Ray Hilburn, an Auburn poultry science graduate himself, spoke at both ceremonies, as did Auburn College of Agriculture Dean Paul Patterson. Both congratulated the graduates and their parents on their commitment to finishing.
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Practical Applications
Joe Hess, Ken Macklin and Ruediger Hauck
As much of the broiler industry transitions to antibiotic free production based on consumer demand, broiler house management is changing more substantially than it has for a number of years. Small tweaks in any system are easier to make than wholesale changes, and house management to ensure optimum production and bird health is adapting rapidly to the challenges put forth by this type of production system. Antibiotics typically used in broiler feeds were fed at low levels to maintain healthy microbial populations in the bird’s intestines and were not absorbed into the body. Other products have been in development for some time to help maintain broiler intestinal health, and poultry companies switching to antibiotic free programs are including a number of alternative feed additives in broiler feeds to maintain broiler intestinal health. Despite this, the burden of controlling intestinal health now falls even more heavily on house management conditions as antibiotics are removed. Litter management becomes an even more important health management tool with antibiotic free systems than in standard commercial production. Increased downtime with antibiotic free systems allows disease organisms more time to die off before chicks are placed for the next flock. Longer downtimes also allow time for other litter management techniques such as windrow composting to be performed. Placing chicks on dry, warmed litter with ammonia controlled for the early part of the birds’ lives will help to protect the respiratory system through the birds’ most vulnerable period and also will reduce the early onset of footpad burns. Carefully-timed release of birds from brooding will insure that wet litter doesn’t occur in the brood end of the house. Good early house conditions also help foster a boost in immune Poultry Science Department, Auburn University, AL
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function in young birds. Throughout the life of the flock, continued emphasis on litter management will pay dividends in broiler health and growth. Maintaining litter depth, managing drinker systems and ventilation will promote good health when combined with vaccine programs and good nutritional programs. Proper nipple height adjustment helps keep birds from spilling water into the litter. Clean water lines will provide the birds with fresh water without bacterial contamination that can cause bacterial problems. In addition, clean water lines will insure the efficacy of any vaccines that may be given to broilers in addition to reducing leaking nipples. Ventilation management plays a central role in moisture control and economical ventilation is a must to keep litter dry to control ammonia through as much of the flock’s life as possible. Low ammonia concentrations in the air will avoid irritation of the birds’ airways, thus reducing respiratory diseases. Litter management will also help to manage coccidiosis in broilers if coccidiosis vaccination programs are used. Coccidiosis can influence growth and profitability if uncontrolled and the broiler industry has managed cocci closely for many decades for this reason. Cocci can also be a trigger for other intestinal health problems such as necrotic enteritis. For this reason, close control of coccidiosis vaccine reactions will give cocci control and minimal intestinal health issues. Dry litter hampers cocci incubation and avoids increases in the amount to which birds are exposed above what is needed to foster immunity. Litter beetle control can be a tool in controlling diseases in broiler production as litter beetles carry various bacteria
Alabama Poultry Magazine
Continued on pg. 30
1. Inspect pads and cooling systems often. The key to extending the useful life and performance of a set of 6” evaporative cooling pads is to keep a watchful eye on the pads and system for any changes in appearance, performance, and cooling ability. At least once a week, a grower should do a quick inspection of each system for water leaks, sagging in the bottom of the trough, pads falling out, or color changes on the pads. Once a month, random pads in each system on the farm, should be taken out and inspected for common problems that could be corrected before real mechanical damage arises. Some of these problems include mineral buildup on pads and debris that may be collecting inside the flutes. Mineral and debris buildup will cause reduced airflow down the house, excessive pressure on tunnel fans, and damage to pads.
For example, can you identify the pads in this picture that are upside down? The pads that are mostly black at the bottom are upside down (above white arrows). The most common pad used in the industry is a 45’ x 15’ flute angle design and they have a proper direction they must be installed in for proper performance. Most pads have a label or stamp near the top of one side indicating the direction up and air flow (see photo insert above). If left in place, these pads will dump water in the “dog house” or plenum room and foul with mineral build up faster than those properly installed. 2. Keep the pads and systems clean. The key to a clean system is maintaining clean trough water. In general, each recirculating cooling system should have the trough water replaced at least once each week during long hours of continuous operation. This is a starting point for systems with clean water. For farms with poor quality and high use, this may require more frequent replacement to keep mineral concentrations in the makeup water to a minimum. Once a system becomes fouled and minerals and debris has been allowed to heavily form on the surface of the pads and inside the pad flutes, it will be difficult and sometimes impossible to rejuvenate the pads. At least once a month, during high use, the sumps and troughs should be inspected for heavy sediment that may have collected in the trough and sump itself. Don’t be surprised if you open up your system and find substantial buildup as shown on the left.
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Alabama Poultry Magazine
3. Fully wet pads for maximum cooling. When the environmental controller is calling for maximum cooling, each pad must be fully saturated with water for this to happen. Farmers often find stopped up distribution header holes, clogged screen filters, and trash around the sump pump during inspections. All of these things work against full cooling potential and can easily be identified and corrected.
The thermal image above was taken from inside the house and shows dry pads in the first 5-foot closest to the tunnel fans. The distribution header was filled with debris and prevented the pads from being wetted. The majority of your air flow comes through the first third of the pads. This large dry area is reducing the effectiveness of the system cooling potential.
4. Make sure all air passes through pads. All pads must be completely nested in the cooling system for maximum cooling performance. Missing pads (picture above), gaps between pads, air leaks above and below the cooling trough and header systems, and holes in pads all allow hot air to bypass the system.
This requires a thorough inspection from inside the evaporative cooling dog house if available to look for hot air leaks. All air must flow through the pad to achieve maximum pad cooling.
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Cleaning tips. Refer to your specific pad manufactures’ requirements for cleaning and maintenance to make sure you do not violate the warranty while maintaining these systems. Pay special attention to supply and makeup water quality and approved cleaner recommendations.
Some additional cleaning tips are as follows: 1. Do not allow pads to sit in the trough water as seen in picture above. Permanent damage will occur. 2. Most pad manufacturers recommend maintaining system water pH between 6 – 8 to reduce mineral buildup and extend pad life. This can be checked with a common pool testing kit. 3. Do not put harsh chemicals on pads or in systems. Once pads are out of warranty, after-market cleaners are available for use but specific directions must be followed. 4. Do not allow minerals or algae to form on pads. Once they are established, they are hard to remove without causing permanent damage to pads. 5. Keep pad flutes clean with routine rinsing with higher volume and lower pressure water. 6. Heavily fouled systems may not be corrected in one cleaning step. 7. Do not blow grass clippings directly into evaporative pads. 8. Recirculation troughs and sumps should be thoroughly cleaned once per year to extend life of pads and pumps. 9. Keep bait stations inside dog houses and routinely service them.
Alabama Poultry Magazine
Continued from pg. 24 ... Mortality Management in Antibiotic Free Production
and viruses both internally and externally. Beetles can spread disease through a house and farm if not controlled and can fly to neighboring farms as well. Broilers will eat litter beetles and pick up diseases directly from these pests. Along the same lines, rodents spread disease organisms in their droppings, which birds can and do eat. A well-maintained insect and rodent control program can help to avoid introducing diseases and food safety organisms into your flock. Fortunately for growers and poultry companies alike, allied industries have developed a number of non antibiotic feed and water additives that can help to control intestinal bacteria and optimize growth and health. Coccidiosis vaccines have been around for some time and have come to the fore in controlling coccidiosis as the use of feed-additive coccidiostats decreases. Probiotics are now uncommonly used, particularly in antibiotic free programs. These consist of either pure bacterial cultures or mixtures of non-pathogenic gut bacteria. They work by competing with and crowding out harmful bacteria in the intestine and help insure a good mix of bacteria to reduce necrotic enteritis in the field. Prebiotics are natural compounds and feed additives that either control pathogenic organisms or feed good bacteria so that they can out-compete harmful pathogens. Poultry companies are now looking at combinations of prebiotics and probiotics
Dr. Ken Macklin presented the Alabama Cooperative Extension System report and Vernon Abney of NRCS presented the environmental science report. He said that NRCS has provided financial assistance for 162 animal mortality systems, including composters, freezers and incinerators. AP&EA CEO Johnny Adams reported that the Alabama Legislature had secured full CAFO funding for this year. He also complimented AP&EA President Kenneth Sanders for
AP&EA Annual Meeting ......... Continued from pg. 12
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to get the best intestinal heath results in broilers raised antibiotic free. Essential oils have been used internationally for some time to insure bird health, and blends of essential oils are also being used by poultry companies to reduce the effects of diseases such as coccidiosis. U.S. consumers have expressed a desire for antibiotic free production of broilers and the broiler industry has responded as close to 50 percent of broiler companies have antibiotic free birds as a significant portion of their output. House management techniques are changing to help maintain bird health and growers will be an important part of the effort to keep birds healthy in antibiotic free programs. Litter management has always been an important health tool for broilers and keeping litter dry and reducing ammonia emissions will gain enhanced importance with today’s management systems.
his outstanding work as president in traveling the state to promote the association. Later in the afternoon, the actual annual meeting was held, and new officers were elected. Mitchell Pate was elected president; Jason Spann, vice president;,Jason Shell, treasurer; and Casey Jones, secretary. With the formalities out of the way, everyone hustled off to get ready for the evening’s festivities.
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AP&EA Sporting Clay Shoot Tuesday, Oct. 2 Ravenwoods Sporting Clays Newville
Central Alabama Poultry & Egg Association Tuesday, Oct. 9. 5:00 p.m. – Tom Harbin Farm Center Spreader Calibration Clinic – Kent Stanford
Allied Scholarship Golf Tournament Friday, Oct. 19 Chesley Oaks Golf Club Cullman
AP&EA Sporting Clay Shoot
Alabama Poultry Magazine
Thursday, Nov. 1 CMP Marksmanship Park Talledega