FIVE THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE STARTING A POULTRY OPERATION
While starting your own commercial poultry business is very exciting, sometimes the anticipation of raising that first flock can cause you to overlook important aspects of the industry. Not to worry though - we have compiled a list of things that you should consider when building an effective business plan. While there are many aspects that make a successful grower, here are five of the main practices you should become knowledgeable in before starting your journey. 1.
Biosecurity: It shouldn’t be surprising that this is at the top of our list. Taking measures to prevent disease exposure is really the first thing you should do to keep your birds healthy. In fact, preventing disease-causing organisms should be considered before any buildings are constructed on your farm. This is due to guidelines around the distance your houses need to be from the road, your shed, and from each other. Other factors include vaccinations, air quality, and traffic control sanitation. Biosecurity will influence the amount of labor and visitors you have on your farm and can even deter you from visiting a friend’s farm without going through safety protocols. A proactive health plan can be the cheapest procedure that you implement with the most significant impacts. It is worth spending a considerable amount of time researching best management practices to ensure the safety of your birds.
2. Litter Management: Litter is a widely discussed topic because of the numerous factors it can influence in your operation, and the information that it can tell you about your flock. Most integrators will want to see a well-practiced litter management plan that follows the correct strategies and standards. Any way you paint it, a poor litter plan will have painful consequences to your operation, including harmful emissions, disease caused by bacteria, and ammonia build up. Your revenue keeps your business afloat, and if your birds are constantly getting sick from their own litter, then your mortality rate will increase and cause you to miss out on flock premiums. Not to mention, selling your litter for fertilizer will be a lot more difficult if it does not retain the nutrients farmers need for their fields. Having a well-thought-out litter management plan for before, during and after birds are placed will keep your integrator happy and put more money in your pocket.
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