Alabama Poultry Magazine Nov/Dec 2019

November / December 2019 Vol. 14 No. 6

Mar-Jac is building for the future

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

Board of Directors Officers Jason Spann, President, Hanceville* Jason Shell, Vice President, Decatur* Casey Jones, Treasurer, Hoover* Stanley Usery, Secretary, Athens* Mitchell Pate, Immediate Past President, Auburn* Directors Johnny Adcock, Woodland Lou Ayers, Jasper Randall Ennis, Tanner Barry Fuller, Decatur Tim Holmes, Decatur Harold Hunt, Gadsden Clint Lauderdale, Hanceville Neil Martin, Dothan David Massey, Enterprise Shaun Morris, Eufaula Charlie Peacock, Tuscaloosa Mike Pigg, Auburn John Pittard, Guntersville Keith Rhodarmer, Collinsville John Roberts, Cullman Cliff Rule, Guntersville Kenneth Sanders, Brundidge Steve Smith, Hanceville* Michael Starling, Shorterville Doug Thiessen, Montgomery Rod Thomas, Montgomery David Thompson, Anniston Kevin Touchstone, Russellville Ryan Turner, Guntersville* Larry Upchurch, Lineville Josh Whitley, Snead Brad Williams, Jack Tony Wood, Brantley *Executive Committee Member Advisors Vernon Abney, Auburn Dr. Bill Dozier, Auburn University Andy Chamness, Montgomery Dr. Jeremiah Davis, Auburn University Dr. Tony Frazier, Montgomery Dr. Ken Macklin, Auburn University *Executive Committee Members

AP&EA STAFF Johnny Adams – Chief Executive Officer 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

Dear Friends, After 12-and-a-half years of serving the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association as communications director, producing 75 Alabama Poultry Magazines; promotional materials and programs for 12 AP&EA Evenings of Fun; annual meeting tee shirts; advertising for sports programs and many other creative productions, including our Facebook page – the time has come to step away and find something else to do with my time. Wanda’s unexpected death in June reminded me that there is more to life, and at 71, I find myself wanting to spend more time at home with my wife, and in doing other creative things.

My time at the association has been fruitful. I have made many friends and been privileged to write profiles on some incredible people – people who just happen to be poultry professionals. I have had fun covering all of the concerts, golf tournaments and events, as well as touring (getting lost at times) Alabama to try to find all of the far-flung poultry farms that I have visited.

My philosophy behind the magazine has been three-fold. Number one has always been to present the Alabama poultry industry in a very positive light, and to inform our association members as to the events that have a bearing on the industry. The second goal was to create a sense of community within the association. It was that shared sense of community that helped us raise relief money for poultry victims of the tornados of 2011. The third goal was to educate our growers through technical articles. I am so thankful to the National Poultry Technology Center and others in poultry science for always coming through for me with timely educational articles.

I am even more thankful to have had Wanda as my editor and friend for 12 years. She knew the poultry industry from top to bottom, and knew most everyone involved. I have really missed her the last six months. She was a real encourager.

Many thanks to Ray, who proof read the magazine for technical content, but caught other problems as well – even while buried under a work load that would kill a horse. He has become a good friend.

Many thanks to Jennifer for all the outstanding work that she has done. She has taken up Wanda’s duties as administrative director with dedication. She pulled together the Evening of Fun, the Annual Meeting, Industry Seminar, and everything else with great organizational skill and commitment. She has done this all while still doing her original job as support director. Wanda would have been proud.

Thanks to Johnny for giving a 58-year old Bama guy, who knew nothing about the poultry industry, a chance to realize the dream of running his own shop, and for signing my paychecks on a regular basis.

It has been a good run, and I thank you all for your help and support. I hope that you have enjoyed reading the magazine half as much as I have enjoyed creating it. I will miss you all, and wish you all success in this amazing industry that feeds the world.

God bless you all.

Huck Carroll Communications Director Alabama Poultry & Egg Association

Featuring This Issue Governmental Affairs: Trade with China Annual Turkey Pardoning: Clyde 70 struts his stuff Association News Christmas Open House Association Board Meeting Industry Profile: Mar-Jac Poultry’s Expansion Industry News Koch Foods Expansion Plans Auburn Happenings Practical Applications Calendar of Events

November / December 2019

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Governmental Affairs

Poultry Groups Applaud Agreement to Resume Imports of U.S. Poultry Products to China WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 14, 2019) – The National Chicken Council (NCC), National Turkey Federation (NTF) and USA Poultry and Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) today applauded the that China will lift its ban on imports of U.S. poultry products. The ban was enacted in 2015 after the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the U.S. While the U.S. has been free of HPAI since 2017, China had yet to lift the ban.

The groups released the following statement welcoming the news: “Lifting the ban has been a top priority of the U.S. poultry industry for the past four years,” the groups said.

“We thank President Trump, Agriculture Secretary Perdue, U.S. Trade Representative Lighthizer, Treasury Secretary Mnuchin, congressional leaders and their staffs, all of whom have worked tirelessly to reach an agreement with China and ensure the poultry industry has access to this market.”

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This action represents a significant opportunity for U.S. chicken and turkey producers. At its peak, the annual value of poultry exports from the U.S. to China was $71 million for turkey and $722 million for chicken. Renewed access to the Chinese market could result in $1 billion annually for chicken paws alone and, due to China’s meat protein deficit as a result of African Swine Fever, there could be as much as another $1 billion of potential exports of other chicken products, including leg and breast meat. Turkey exports could generate another $100 million in sales and poultry breeding stock at least $60 million more.

“America’s poultry producers are committed to raising high-quality, nutritious products, and we are extremely pleased that we will once again have the opportunity to share these products with Chinese consumers.

We look forward to resuming a trade partnership with China in the coming weeks.”

Alabama Poultry Magazine

The Legacy Lives On … Clyde 70 Struts Away

MONTGOMERY – Tuesday, Nov. 18, dawned clear and bright, in fact, it was warm for the middle of November. It was a gorgeous day to see the ritual of a couple of turkeys name Clyde (the 70th) and Henrietta get off the hook, so to speak.

Becky Bates Sloane, of Bates Turkey Farm, presented the two birds to Gov. Kay Ivey, just as her father, Bill Bates, had done for so many past Alabama governors. And, just as all governors had done before, she pardoned them from the Thanksgiving roasting pan, deep fryer, or whatever cooking method one might employ. The governor did receive on of Clyde’s less fortunate relatives for her chosen method of culinary fancy.

This tableau was all carried out in front of the Alabama Governor’s Mansion, where the students from the Riverchase Day School Kindergarten, proud parents and teachers looking on, serenaded the governor with turkey themed Thanksgiving songs.

Becky Bates Sloane reminds us every year that Thanksgiving was her father’s favorite holiday because it was so uniquely American. Bill would be pleased to know that his legacy lives on.

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Alabama Poultry Magazine

Alabama Poultry Magazine

November / December 2019

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Association News

Association Meetings in November and December There was a full slate of county and regional poultry & egg association meetings in November and December. Attendance was good at all of the meetings despite some inclement weather.

The Central Alabama Poultry & Egg Association held its meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 12, at the Tom Harbin Agricultural Center in Luverne. The sponsors were First South Farm Credit, Luverne; Alabama Ag Credit, Montgomery and Enterprise; Farm Systems, Luverne; Burbage Electrical Services, Brantley; and Beth Gardner, FFB Ag Finance, Inc., Enterprise. Speakers were Michael Odom, Farm Systems who presented information on equipment for broiler and breeder growers and Andrew Burbage, Burbage Electrical Services, who discussed electrical and generator services.

Miss Anita’s Cafe was the location of the Clay County Poultry & Egg Association meeting on Thursday, Nov.14. A meal was served prior to the meeting compliments of First South Farm Credit, Oxford, and Alabama Farm Credit, Talladega. The speaker was Jess Campbell, National Poultry Technology Center, Auburn University.

The Randolph County Poultry & Egg Association was held Tuesday, Dec. 3, at the ALFA Building Auditorium in Wedowee. The speaker and sponsor for this meeting was Justin Lackey, Ag Pro, Oxford. He informed the group about all the equipment and services he has to offer producers in the area.

The Wiregrass Poultry & Egg Association met on Tuesday, Dec, 10, in the Family Life Center of Ino Baptist Church in Kinston. A meal, sponsored by First South Farm Credit of Andalusia and Enterprise, Alabama Ag Credit of Enterprise, and FFB Ag Finance of Enterprise was served. Ray Hilburn, associate director of the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association spoke briefly.

At each event strict biosecurity was observed, with producers strongly urged not to wear the same clothes or shoes to the meeting that were worn to their poultry farms, and not go directly back to their poultry houses from the meeting without changing clothes and shoes.

Grower VIP Sponsorship Program Don’t forget about our new Grower VIP Sponsorship Program that was approved by our grower committee last year. It gives our growers a chance to get more involved and gives them more recognition throughout the year.

The cost of the VIP program is $700 per year. The grower will receive four Evening of Fun tickets and sponsorship recognition for the two grower/allied clay shoots, the bass tournament, the EOF golf tournament, the poultry industry seminar, and at all county and regional grower meetings. A

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board with all Grower VIPs will be displayed and recognized at all of these events. You will also be recognized in the magazine and at the EOF throughout the concert as your sponsorship will be shown on the screen.

Four growers participated in 2019 and we are hoping more will participate in 2020. If you have any questions or comments, please contact Ray Hilburn at the AP&EA office at 334-265-2732 or on his cell phone at 334-320-5478.

Alabama Poultry Magazine

Alabama 4-H’s Poultry Team at the National 4-H Poultry & Egg Conference The 4-H National Championship was brought home to Alabama in the Chicken BBQ competition by Samual Sutton and in the Avian Bowl competition by the team of Alexis Steele, Hannah Enskat, and Zoe Nye. Zoe Nye came in third in the Egg Preparation Demonstration competition. Mitchell Sasser came in sixth in the Turkey BBQ competition.

Congratulations need to be given to all of the Alabama 4-H members who put in long and hard hours of preparation in order to represent our state at the national level. Good work everyone!

Left to Right: Hannah Enskat, Zoe Nye, Alexis Steele, and Coach Lisa Towe

Left to right: Mitchell Sasser, Alexis Steele, Zoe Nye, Hannah Enskat, and Samuel Sutton.

The Avian Bowl competition is a fast-paced event and our 4-H members had their ups and downs. This team fought unbelievably hard for their win in this double elimination game. This team from Limestone County did not lose a single round until the second to last round against Pennsylvania.

Then the two teams faced each other again in the final round and Alabama won by 15 points. The team consisted of Alexis Steele, Hannah Enskat, and Zoe Nye, with their coach Lisa Towe, who is the 4-H Agent Assistant in Limestone County.

Hannah Enskat was the 2018 National Winner in Egg Preparation Demonstration so this win in Avian Bowl makes her a two time national champion!

Alabama Poultry Magazine

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Association News

The annual AP&EA Christmas Open House could well have been called the AP&EA Chirstmas Full House. The large meeting room was packed with good cheer and lots of good folks wanting to join in the festivities.

From the time the doors opened at 5:00 p.m., on Wed., Dec. 12, the friends of Alabama poultry came rolling in. There were elected officials, government staffers, judges, justices, political leaders, educational leaders, researchers, professors, and waiting to warmly greet them were the poultry professionals, who make the industry run.

Also waiting was the food. Great mounds of suptious

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tasty treats; Swedish meatballs, shrimp, beef medallions, kabobed chicken, all sorts of cheeses and fruit. The bar was open for adult beverages, as well.

As the crowd mingled, they got a chance to view photos from the year, projected on our new video projector.

It was a glorious way to kick off the holiday season and say a hearty “thank you� to the folks that help our industry.

Alabama Poultry Magazine

AP&EA Holds Fall Board Meeting AP&EA President Jason Spann gaveled in the fall meeting of the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association board. During his brief remarks the thanked the staff for its continued good work in recovering from Administrative Director Wanda Linker’s death in June.

Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries Commissioner Rick Pate talked about his “Sweet Grown Alabama” branding program. AP&EA CEO Johnny Adams said, “We have really enjoyed working with Commissioner Pate.”

Dr. Paul Patterson, dean of the Auburn University College of Agriculture, welcomed Dr. Bill Dozier as head of the department of poultry science. He reported that of the 159 faculty positons, there were 19 faculty searches underway. He also reported that the Miller Center was progressing rapidly and that plans were to vacate the current location of the poultry farm by August 2020.

The Allied Committee report was presented by Steve Smith. He told the board that the Allied Scholarship Golf Tournament raised $18,000, even with a low turn out. The committee will meet in February to decide on dates for their three fundraising events – smoked chicken sales, “Big Bass” Fishing Tournament and the Allied Scholarship Golf Tournament. He also reported that Scott Seagrave of Gainco would be taking James San-

ford’s place heading up the fishing tournament.

Grower Committee Chairman Stan Usery reported on the success of the two allied/grower clay shoots held in September and October. He thanked the sponsors and all those providing the lunches.

Mitchell Pate, Auburn University poultry research unit head and chairman of the AU Poultry Facilities Committee, reported that all planned building at the Miller Center are “out of the ground.” “It is,” he said, “going to be a one of a kind facility. With the facilities and equipment we are installing, it is going to set Auburn apart in terms of poultry research and learning.” He invited all to come and visit.

Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier and Dept. of Ag. Poultry Specialist Peggy Vardaro spoke on the department’s efforts to develop a new avian influenza response plan. Frazier reported that a tabletop excercise had been held in November, with participants from all Alabama companies.

There were a number of other reports and discussions, including Dr. Ken Macklin reporting on the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and Dr. Bill Dozier, the new head of the department of poultry science.

The meeting was closed by AP&EA CEO Johnny Adams, commenting on the upcoming legislative session.

Alabama Poultry Magazine

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Industry Profile

Mar-Jac is building for the future

SPRUCE PINE – Jimmy Potter has been working in the corn and soybeans when it is available. poultry business since 1995, when he started with Marshall Down the road, about a quarter of a mile, is the new stateDurbin. He’s been in feed mills since 2001. Now, as manager of-the-art hatchery. According to the hatchery manager, of the newest Mar-Jac Poultry feed mill, he is mighty pleased Glenn Cooley, who started with Marshall Durbin 27 years with his new charge and proud to show it off. ago in plant maintenance, they are setting 2,200,000 eggs a This $25 million feed mill is just a part of the $50 million week, with a hatch of 1,728,000 in the 6,000 square foot fainvestment that Mar-Jac Poultry Alabama LLC has made in cility. Those numbers dovetail nicely with the production this northwest Alabama community in Franklin County. number of 1.7 million birds a week in the Jasper processing Other parts of the investment included moving the outdated plant. This represents a 60 percent increase over the last two hatchery from Moulton to Spruce Pine and improvements to years. the processing plant in Jasper. All told the company has created or retained more than 100 new and existing jobs and strengthened the company’s presence in the state.

The feed mill, completed in Jan of 2018 produces 6,500 tons a week. That’s enough to supply the 71 breeder and pullet farms and 105 broiler farms in the Mar-Jac family. The facility currently has a 425,000 bushel storage capacity. There are plans already drawn up to expand the plant with another line and a six-pack of storage when needed.

They currently employ eight trucks, working double shifts, to supply broiler growers and a single truck to supply the breeder growers.

The mill handles 85 Norfolk Southern rail cars a week, supplying midwestern corn, grain and soybeans, They also unload 40 semi-tractor loads of corn each day. They buy local 12 November / December 2019 Alabama Poultry Magazine

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The new Mar-Jac Poultry hatchery in Spruce Pine hatches 1.7 million chicks a week, supplying 105 broiler growers.

Breeder Manager Todd Oldacre and Hatchery Manager Glenn Cooley in the new Mar-Jac hatchery in Spruce Pine.

Shawn Trimm, with his wife, Niki, son, Connor, 7, and daughter, Maddie, 10. Niki is a nursing supervisor in Tuscaloosa.

The original hatchery had been in Moulton, but they decided to move because they were an hour and a half away from some of their growers, many of whom are new to MarJac. The new hatchery puts then in the very center of their growers.

When Mar-Jac was adding new growers, distance from the feed mill and hatchery was a concern for broiler growers, but not so for breeder growers.

Fifty-five miles away in Fayette, Shawn Trimm’s three 40’x 615’ breeder houses are just over two years old. Trimm and his brother-in-law wanted to get into the poultry business, but were too far away to get a broiler contract, instead they both built breeder houses. Now, on his second flock, he is one of Mar-Jac’s top breeder producers, and he is happy working with Mar-Jac. Last year he experienced some problems with egg shell quality, but Mar-Jac quickly stepped in

to help with oyster shells to correct the problem. Trimm is very pleased with his service tech, Tommy Roberts, and with Breeder Manager Todd Oldacre.

Currently, at peak, his 40,000 birds are producing 33,000 eggs a week. While the houses are highly automated, Trimm has one full-time helper, and, from time to time, employs additional help from local teenagers.

He also gets help from his son, Connor, 7, who wants to be a farmer and really enjoys talking about it.

The houses have modern egg handling automation.

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Alabama Poultry Magazine

Special Discount Offered to Poultry Growers at 2020 IPPE

Poultry growers are invited to attend the 2020 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) with a special registration fee of only $5 (onsite only), a terrific savings of $95! IPPE will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta from Jan. 28 - 30, 2020. “We encourage growers to take advantage of this opportunity to attend IPPE at such a wonderful price. They will see the newest innovations and services, as well as attend a wide range of education sessions. With the largest trade show floor ever in the history of the show, there is a lot to see and do at the 2020 IPPE! We urge poultry growers to join us in Atlanta to experience it all,� said IPPE show organizers.

Poultry growers can attend the IPPE on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Registration will begin each morning at 7 a.m. at the Georgia World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd., in downtown Atlanta. A completed registration form and a 2020 Grower Days coupon are required. Registration forms will be located at the Expo and should be completed onsite. Coupons are available through state poultry organizations.

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Alabama Poultry Magazine

Industry News

Boehringer Ingelheim launches VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+ND, a Vaccine That Protects Poultry From Three Diseases DULUTH, Ga. – Boehringer Ingelheim’s U.S. Animal Health Business has recently launched a vaccine to protect poultry from three diseases.

VAXXITEK® HVT+IBD+ND provides a strong immune foundation and optimized protection against Marek’s Disease, Infectious Bursal Disease (classic and variant types) and Newcastle Disease.

Until now, Boehringer Ingelheim has offered two vaccines that guard against the three diseases, but they cannot be used together.

Veterinarians and poultry producers have had to choose whether to use VAXXITEK HVT+IBD to vaccinate against Marek’s Disease and Infectious Bursal Disease or NEWXXITEK™ HVT+ND to prevent Marek’s Disease and Newcastle Disease.

“VAXXITEK HVT+IBD+ND provides producers the flexibility and expected protection against three diseases with one product,” said Matt Nelson, head of Boehringer Ingelheim’s U.S. poultry business. “We’re confident this

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vaccine will improve flock health and live production performance our customers have come to expect from the VAXXITEK brand.”

Boehringer Ingelheim will manufacture VAXXITEK HVT+IBD+ND from its site in Gainesville, Georgia, which produces more than 60 billion doses of poultry vaccine a year for use in the United States and over 60 other countries.

Nikki Pritchard, global head of poultry vaccines R&D at Boehringer Ingelheim, said VAXXITEK HVT+IBD+ND brings a simplified and effective solution to the poultry industry.

“Disease prevention through vaccination is key to ensure better bird health, resulting in bird performance and safety. This is critical in supporting our customer’s ability to produce affordable protein to feed the planet,” she said.

Boehringer Ingelheim is seeking regulatory approval in several countries to provide its new trivalent vaccine to customers outside the United States.

Alabama Poultry Magazine

Koch Foods Breaks Ground on New Feed Mill On Nov. 5, 2019, Koch Foods broke ground on its newest high-tech poultry feed mill. The estimated cost of the project is $55 million and will generate 12,500 tons a week to supply feed to 200 poultry growers in three counties. It will create 28 new jobs, with a payroll of $1 million. The facility is projected to open in late 2021.

An artist concept of the Koch Foods' feed mill and surrounding infrastructure. The site currently covers 88 acres, with plans to include another 47 acres.

The rail line will handle more than 100 freight cars.

Gov. Kay Ivey was on hand for the groundbreaking, joining officials from Koch Foods and Etowah County and the city of Attalla. In her remarks, Gov. Ivey said, “Koch Foods already has significant operations in Alabama, and this new investment will magnify the company’s economic impact on the state,”

Poultry professionals and educators got together a the ground breaking ceremony. (Left to right) Koch Foods Vice President Dennis Gordon, Gadsden Complex Manager Harold Hunt, Alabama Poultry & Egg Association CEO , Koch Foods CEO Mark Kaminsky, Koch Foods Senior Vice President Matthew Herman, Auburn University Poultry Science Department Head Dr. Bill Dozier, Auburn Poultry Research Unit Director Mitchell Pate, and Dean of the Auburn University College of Agriculture Dr. Paul Patterson.

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Gov. Kay Ivey and Attalla Mayor Larry Means.

Instead of shoveling dirt to break ground, the dignitaries shoveled shelled corn.

Alabama Poultry Magazine

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Auburn Happenings

Auburn University Honors Poultry Department and the Miller Center Last weekend was a great time for our college family, particularly those associated with our poultry and food science programs. As a part of its pre-game festivities, Auburn University celebrated the success of these programs on-field just before the kickoff of the Auburn-Georgia game.

The game-day program included this excellent article about the impact of our poultry and food science programs and the importance of the new Charles C. Miller Poultry Research and Education Center to these industries. One of our local news stations also broadcast a great story that I am sharing.

The Auburn Poultry Professionals were honored during pre-game festivities at the Auburn-Georgia football game at Jordan-Hair Stadium.

(Left to right) Dr. Paul Patterson, dean of the college of Agriculture, Mitchell Pate, director of the poultry research unit, Dr. Bill Dozier, head of the department of poultry science, AP&EA President Jason Spann and Randall Ennis.

Auburn University’s department of poultry science, located in the College of Agriculture, continues to grow into a program of worldwide distinction, offering one-of-a-kind instruction, training, and outreach in support of Alabama’s largest agricultural industry, an industry with a statewide annual impact of more than $15 billion and 86,000 jobs.

Graduates of degree programs in poultry science and food science are trained in food safety and quality, product development, production methods, and other aspects of the industry.

“As global populations grow, healthy and efficient ways of feeding communities are more important than ever,” said Paul Patterson, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station. “That’s why graduates of degree programs in poultry science and food science are in such high demand by some of the top food companies, public agencies, and research centers.”

Evolving research methods and improved facilities allow Poultry Science to address industry needs in fresh and innovative ways. One research project has led to the introduction of a new device that detects a major poultry industry challenge, woody breast. Woody breast is a muscle myopathy that makes poultry tough and unpleasant to consume, causing losses of up to $200 million annually in the U.S. “Poultry Science, along with the National Poultry Technol-

ogy Center, are building the nation’s leading poultry research and education facility, making Auburn an innovation hub for poultry researchers, industry leaders, and students from across the country and throughout the world,” Patterson said.

The new comprehensive “farm,”—the Charles C. Miller, Jr. Poultry Research and Education Center—will significantly advance the university’s standing as a global leader in poultry research, instruction, and outreach. This new center is allowing Poultry Science to realize its vision of becoming the nation’s premiere poultry education and research program and will allow it to combine facilities in a systems approach to support a unique “farm-to-fork” philosophy.

The Miller Center is located on a 30-acre site in north Auburn. At present, it is in its final phase of construction, nearing a completion date in 2020. Current construction includes a processing plant as well as several new bird research houses.

As of fall 2019, the Miller Center consists of the following facilities: Poultry and Animal Nutrition Center-Alabama Poultry & Egg Association Feed Mill, the National Poultry Technology Center’s testing facility, replicated pen facilities for poultry nutrition and management-related research, and an administration and education building that includes classrooms.

“The new center will enhance Auburn’s teaching mission by providing hands-on experiences for students, increasing process control to meet current and future research needs, and expanding Auburn’s extension mission through industry education courses,” said Bill Dozier, head of the Department of Poultry Science.

The National Poultry Technology Center, based at Auburn, continues its mission of improving bottom-line profitability of the live production sector of the U.S. poultry industry by providing timely applied research and education that contributes to increased efficiencies in housing, equipment, energy, and environmental control. The emphasis of NPTC is on improving efficiency, effectiveness, and the economic viability of poultry production facilities.

NPTC recently joined forces with Tyson Foods Inc. to open the largest stand-alone solar-powered poultry house to be operated completely off the grid. Research from the house, located in Cullman, Alabama, will provide important new information on how solar power technology can improve environmental sustainability and profits for farmers.

Although our food and poultry science programs are as strong as ever and our Miller Center is nearing completion, the future of these programs is contingent on the generosity of friends like you. Gifts of any amount are vital. As you consider this opportunity, please reach out to Jordan Moseley of our development team at 334-844-1475 or for more information on how you can make an impact at Auburn.

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Alabama Poultry Magazine

Of Scholarships and Graduations

On Nov. 4, a special recognition was held for Auburn poultry science scholarship recipients for 2019-20 in the administration building at the Miller Center: (Front row) AP&EA President Jason Spann ( he got one back in the 90s), Cohen White, Erin Pankey,Seth Delgado, Madeline Frazier, Tanner Quick,Keri Shipman, Hannah Haiderer, Leah Smith, and Amanda Barkley – with Dean Paul Patterson and Poultry Science Department Head Dr. Bill Dozier. (Back row)) AP&EA CEO Johnny Adams, Brett Bobo, Ethan Waters. Uriel Franco, Hunter Murphy, Nathan Duke, Cole Yerta, Emily Sims, Clayton Crump, and Ryan Oden.

It is a great pleasure for the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association to be so closely involved with the Auburn University department of poultry science. Poultry science at Auburn has and continues to equip poultry industry leaders, not just in Alabama, but internationally as well.

We are proud to recognize these outstanding students, not only for their academic achievements but for their determination and character to complete their degrees. We also celebrate the outstanding faculty that enables their success.

As these students come through the new Charles C. Miller, Jr. Poultry Research and Education Center, which houses the Alabama Poultry Hall of Fame, they will take inspiration from the stories of the Alabama poultry pioneers of the past to become poultry leaders of the future. Congratulations, all!

On Saturday, Aug. 3, Auburn University College of Ag held the 116th Student Recognition & Graduation Breakfast. There were two poultry science students receiving Master of Science degrees. Lindsey Spencer in food science and Stephanie Philpot in poultry science.

AP&EA celebrated the 117th Auburn Agriculture Student Recognition & Graduation Breakfast on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Ham Wilson Arena. Twelve poultry science students received their undergraduate diplomas. Front row: Brett Bobo, Seth Delgado, Tanner Quick, Madeline Frazier, Austin Fullilove, and John Sansom. Back row: Dr. Bill Dozier, Tyler Easterwood, Hunter Murphy, Zack Wilton and AP&EA Associate Director Ray Hilburn. Not present: Abel Parrales and Chalsey Burt. Congratulations all!

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Alabama Poultry Magazine

Practical Applications: Check Gas Plumbing and Appliances for Gas Leaks Jeremiah Davis, Jess Campbell, Kelly Griggs, Dennis Brothers, and Chapman Bodiford – National Poultry Technology Center

Can you guess how many gas pipe connections there are in a typical 66x600 broiler house? Can you guess how many pipe connections might be leaking? Chances are there may be one (or more) that has developed a leak over time. Regardless if your houses are new or old, now is the time to do some inspecting inside and outside the house for costly leaks. Do not assume you have no leaks – verify that you have no leaks.

We recently conducted a gas leak test of all the pipe and fitting connections on a 4-year old, 66x600 broiler house. Did you guess that there were over 430 total gas fittings counted on this house? The heating system consisted of 26 tube heaters in six zones. There were 264 pipe and fitting connections on the low-pressure side (11 in. WC.) between the regulator and the heaters. There were 170 fittings on the high-pressure side (10 psi) between the gas company meter and the pressure regulator.

There was a total of around 1,736 pipe and fitting connections above ground on this four-house farm.

Using a hand-held pump sprayer filled with soap and water (figure 1), we sprayed each connection of one house and surveyed for leaks bubbling at the connection.

We followed each connection along the gas piping branch from the low-pressure regulator to each heater connection inside one house. We did not find any gas leaks inside.

Next, we went outside and checked every connection along the high-pressure piping from the meter to each low-pressure regulator (figure 2). A total of ten leaks were found for this house. We marked each leak with orange flagging tape. Three leaks were found on the gas company side (gray painted meter and pipe) of the connection; highlighted with arrows in figure 3.

Two leaks were visible through the pipe threads on each side of the gas meter, as shown in the photo insets. The remaining seven leaks were along the connection to the high-pressure trunk line, also flagged with orange tape in figure 2. Figure 4 illustrates the gas leaks shown by the growing soap bubbles at each of the connections, each highlighted with an arrow. Figure 5 provides a close-up view of two small leaks on a single tee. The smaller leak is made visible by a small bubble mass while the larger leak is made visible by a larger bubble mass. We found an additional five leaks along the main trunk of two other houses on this farm. These leaks occurring on the high-pressure side would tend to leak approximately 25 times the gas that would leak on the low-pressure side.

Figure 1 : A one-gallon hand sprayer was filled with soap and water and pressurized to spray pipe and fitting connections. If a connection is leaking, it will show up with bubbles forming. Mark the connection leak with bright tape so it can be easily found by professionals to correct.

Figure 2 : Jess Campbell is marking connections that show leaks with orange flagging tape. Each leak is marked individually for easy identification. On this main trunk line, we found ten leaks; three on the gas company side and seven past the main shutoff.

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Figure 3: Check the main gas meter connections (everything painted gray). Four leaks are shown with arrows. The two photo insets show leaks bubbling up through the threads.

Figure 4: Arrows show leaks occurring at the top of the trunk connection. Almost every connection was leaking in this 3-ft section.

Figure 5: A close-up view of the tee fitting that branches to each side of the trunk line shows two gas leaks; one larger than the other. Over time, these small leaks will add up to significant costs.

Bottom line: This simple test cost the grower almost nothing to conduct, aside from time. But it is time well spent because gas leaks can be a safety concern and will cost the grower over time.

Even small leaks can become costly over multiple years.

For more information, visit poultryhouse.com and download our smartphone app today!

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Five simple steps to check for gas pipe and fitting connection leaks on your farm

3. Check all tank fittings and house-to-tank connections to make sure they are not leaking.

1. Mix a strong solution of soapy water into a 1-gallon or larger garden or backpack sprayer. Spray the solution directly onto every rigid or flexible gas connection and look for continuous bubble formation or foaming. We recommend using a strong flashlight to help you clearly see the leaks when inside of houses.

You may need a ladder to get close enough to connections to see the leak. (see figure 1) 2. Mark leaking connections with construction tape or yellow electrical tape so each leaking fitting can be later located and repaired. (see figures 1, 2, and 3)

4. Check all rigid gas fittings and regulators inside and outside the house for leaks. (see figures 3, 4, and 5) 5. Check all brooders and heating appliances to make sure the heater itself does not have any loose fittings or connections. *If you would like to share your gas leak detection photos or story with us, please email Kelly Griggs at griggs@auburn.edu.

Dr. Tami Kelly Retires From Regional Diagnostic Lab Dr. Tami Kelly retired from the Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries on Oct. 31. During her more than 25 years serving the poultry industry in Alabama, she was director of the Mitchem Sparks Regional Poultry Diagnostic Lab and she taught the poultry science course at Snead State Community College for 11 years.

Prior to her years of service in state government, Dr. Kelly was employed by Gold Kist for seven years as their field veterinarian for Alabama and Florida.

Very involved in Christian ministry, Dr. Kelly is continuing teaching at Christian Women's Job Corp. She will be leading a Women's Emmaus Walk Weekend in July, and is planning to  go to the Philippines in February-March as a team member of RPCR to do Christian Veterinary Missions work. She will be teaching composting, organic farming and raising chickens, goats and rabbits.

Dr. Kelly has also stayed busy post-retirement by training to be a Yoga Faith Instructor. Tennis, aerobics and yoga continue to be her daily healthy activities.Â

Ray Hilburn presents Dr. Tami Kelly a certificate of apreciation from AP&EA.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS International Production & Processing Expo January 28-30 Georgia World Convention Center Atlanta, Georgia

Big Bass Fishing Tournament May 8, 2020, Lake Guntersville

Evening of Fun Golf Tournament Friday, May 15, Silver Lakes Golf Course Gadsden

Alabama Poultry Magazine