Managing Built-up Li er in Broiler Houses AP&EA Holiday Open House Poultry Pioneer Wade Skidmore Pro led - WINTER 2008 - VOL. 3 NO. 6
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WINTER 2008 – VOL. 3 NO. 6 Managing Built-up Litter in Broiler Houses AP&EA Holiday Open House Poultry Pioneer Wade Skidmore Profiled AP&EA P.O. Box 240 Montgomery, AL 36101 Address Service Requested
I
Board of Directors
Officers President’s MESSAGE
Ken Taylor, President, Anniston*
Fred Cespedes, Vice President, Hanceville*
Wendell Shelton, Treasurer, Boaz*
hope that you all had a happy and safe holiday
John Pittard, Secretary, Guntersville*
Jack Sherwood, Immediate Past President, Troy*
season. 2008 was a tough year for everyone involved in the poultry in-
dustry. Energy and fuel costs reached an alarming rate and feed cost
Directors
Johnny Adcock, Woodland*
was unrealistic. We all suffered from the events of the past year. As
Ronnie Adrian, Collinsville
we move into the new year, I am hopeful that our circumstances will
George Attwood, Anniston
Roger Chappell, Cullman
change. Recently we have seen gas and propane costs drop to the low-
Billy Conquest, Cullman
est level in four years. Corn prices have also fallen with diminished
Rory DeWeese, Enterprise
Melissa Durbin, Birmingham
fuel demands. This is good news. The bad news is that as our economy
Randall Ennis, Huntsville
improves, gas and other fuels cost will again be driven up and corn
Tim Esslinger, Eufaula
Dale Gambrill, Snead
cost will increase as well. Some of our poultry companies have made
Billy Gilley, Cullman
Harold Hunt, Gadsden
administrative adjustments in an effort to turn the direction of the in-
Spence Jarnagin, Huntsville*
dustry. We are all doing our best to weather this economic storm.
Ted Lankford, Athens
Heath Loyd, Decatur
With a new administration and a new Congress, it is my hope that
David Massey, Montgomery
they will consider the plight of the meat protein industry and that they
Dennis Maze, Horton
Todd McMahen, Dothan
will recognize that our nation and the world cannot afford to handicap
John Roberts, Cullman
our industry with policies that trade food for fuel. We must reach out
Kenneth Sanders, Brundidge
Roddy Sanders, Gordo
to our elected officials and help them understand our circumstances
Taylor Steele, Albertville
and our economic importance to our state and nation.
Phyllis Thomas, Russellville
David Thompson, Ashland
I did learn of good news coming from the U. S. Trade Office and
Stanley Usery, Athens
Ricky Walker, Snead
the U. S. Department of Agriculture. They recently agreed on amend-
ing the five-year meat and poultry agreement with the Russian gov-
Advisors
Dr. Don Conner, Auburn University
ernment. This agreement provides more certainty that the Russian
James Donald, Auburn University
government will continue to maintain poultry import quotas at a fa-
Dr. Joe Hess, Auburn University
Mickey Humphries, Montgomery
vorable level. The United States exported an estimated 760,000 met-
Dr. Tony Frazier, Montgomery
ric tons of poultry to Russia in 2008. Russia is our largest poultry
Perry Oakes, Auburn
importer and they buy mostly dark meat.
*Executive Committee Members
We will work hard as an association to protect our industry in the
AP&EA STAFF
coming year and with your help we will be successful.
Johnny Adams – Executive Director
Wanda H. Linker – Administrative Director
Huck Carroll – Communications Director/Editor
Jennifer Shell – Support Director
Alabama Poultry is published by the
Alabama Poultry & Egg Association
465 South Bainbridge Street
Montgomery, AL 36104
Phone: 334-265-2732 FEATURING THIS MONTH
Fax: 334-265-0008
Send editorial and advertising correspondence to: Governmental Affairs pg. 4
Alabama Poultry Association News pg. 8
Editor
P.O. Box 240 Pioneer Profile: Wade Skidmore pg. 12
Montgomery, AL 36101
Recipes pg. 16
Advertising rates and closing
dates available upon request. Membership News: pg. 20
Faculty Profiles pg. 24
Editorial matter from sources outside AP&EA is
sometimes presented for the information and interest of National Egg Processing Center pg. 25
our members. Such material may or may not coincide
with official AP&EA policy. Publication does not nec- Practical Applications pg. 26
essarily imply endorsement by AP&EA.
Coming Events pg. 30
w w w. a l a b a m a p o u l t r y. o r g
Alabama Poultry Magazine WINTER 2008 3
Governmental Affairs
Agreement with Perdue Supports the Protection
of Southeastern Waters
January 6, 2009 – Atlanta The U.S. practices on poultry farms, and feel tract poultry farms growing for Per-
Environmental Protection Agency that working together and providing due. While new federal regulations
Regions 3 and 4 announced an producers with knowledge and re- only apply to concentrated animal
agreement today with Perdue Farms, sources to enable them to be good feeding operations that discharge,
Inc., to help poultry producers grow- environmental stewards is the most this program will extend to all Per-
ing for Perdue protect our nation’s productive route to our shared goals due producers in the mid-Atlantic
waters. The parties signed a Memo- of protecting our natural resources and Southeast regions.
randum of Agreement to implement and preserving the family farm.” Under the program, Perdue,
the Perdue Clean Waters Environ- In addition to other sources of EPA and other partners will provide
mental Initiative, an effort to provide nutrients, runoff from improperly training and assistance to poultry
training, assessments and other as- managed poultry farms can ad- farmers so that they can learn how
sistance to reduce the environmental versely affect surrounding surface to achieve or exceed compliance
impact of poultry farms. water and groundwater quality, and with guidelines on controlling
“By signing this Clean Waters have a negative effect on plant and runoff and managing litter disposal.
agreement, EPA is agreeing to work fish life. The initiative will also include an
with Perdue to restore and protect The formal Memorandum of awards program to recognize poul-
surface and groundwater,” said Agreement, known as the Clean try farms that demonstrate environ-
Jimmy Palmer, EPA Region 4 re- Waters Environmental Initiative, mental and compliance excellence
gional administrator. “These water- grew out of a pilot program initiated in protecting and restoring water-
ways provide valuable ecosystems by EPA Region 3 and Perdue on the ways.
for plant and animal life, and are a Delmarva Peninsula in Delaware, Also as part of the initiative,
source of recreation for visitors and Maryland and Virginia. Beginning in Perdue poultry processing facilities
residents throughout the Southeast 2007, EPA and Perdue provided will each implement an Environ-
and mid-Atlantic regions.” training and assistance to the largest mental Management System, a set
“Perdue Farms is committed to independent contract poultry farms of processes and practices designed
environmental stewardship and growing for Perdue throughout the to reduce environmental impacts
shares that commitment with the in- Peninsula. Trained flock supervisors and increase operating efficiency.
dependent farm families who raise visited each farm and used a check-
our birds,” said Perdue Chairman list to examine how well the farmers
Jim Perdue. “We are pleased to work complied with nutrient management
cooperatively with EPA Regions 3 regulations and best management
and 4 to enhance the implementation practices in their poultry production
of environmental best management areas and noted any improvements
needed.
Under the Clean
Waters Environmen-
tal Initiative an-
nounced today,
Perdue will use re-
sults of the initial
pilot effort to launch
a four-year, com-
pany-wide environ-
mental management
program for all con-
4 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry Magazine
Bred for performance
When it comes to performance, every Ross bird is a star.
www.aviagen.com an Aviagen brand
Governmental Affairs
Poultry Industry Supports Agreement with Russia, Praises Work of
USTR and USDA
U.S. poultry producers and ex- level. The U.S. poultry industry and Foreign Agricultural Services
porters congratulate the U.S. Trade supports the arrangements and an- Ellen Terpstra.
Representative’s Office and the U.S. ticipates poultry exports to Russia USAPEEC, NCC and their
Department of Agriculture on the will continue at a level very compa- members thank all officials involved
successful conclusion of consulta- rable to the estimated 760,000 met- for working cooperatively and
tions that achieved an acceptable ric tons in 2008. closely with the poultry industry in
amendment to the five-year bilateral The USA Poultry & Egg Export achieving a successful outcome to
meat and poultry agreement with the Council and the National Chicken the consultations. In addition, US-
Russian government. The jointly- Council recognize that the consul- APEEC and NCC are most grateful
signed statement by the two govern- tations required a tremendous effort for the full and active support pro-
ments marks a critically important by both USTR and USDA. The suc- vided by the various agencies within
step in the continuation of poultry cessful outcome was dependent, in USDA, including the Foreign Agri-
and meat trade with Russia. good measure, on the strong leader- cultural Service, the Food Safety and
Because the amendment pro- ship of Ambassador Susan Schwab. Inspection Service, and the Animal
vides more certainty on import quo- The combined USTR/USDA team and Plant Health Inspection Service.
tas and tariff rates for poultry and was led by Assistant U.S. Trade The department’s coordination with
meat during 2009, it is anticipated Representative Jim Murphy and USTR on the issues is a major rea-
trade will continue at a favorable Deputy Under Secretary for Farm son that poultry trade with Russia
will not be disrupted.
Poultry Groups Welcome EPA Final Rule On Air Release Reporting
The National Chicken Council, breakdown of animal waste,” the little or no risk to the public, and
National Turkey Federation, and poultry groups said. “We believe emergency reporting would be an
U.S. Poultry & Egg Association is- EPA heard our concerns and has additional burden on emergency re-
sued a joint statement welcoming come to a reasonable compromise sponse personnel. Furthermore,
the announcement from the U.S. En- that addresses the needs and re- farmers have no reliable means of
vironmental Protection Agency quirements of the regulated commu- knowing how much, if any, ammo-
granting an exemption for poultry nity, emergency responders, and the nia their farms are emitting on a
farms from having to report natu- public at large. We particularly ap- daily basis.
rally occurring air releases of am- preciate the efforts of EPA to mini- The reporting exemption for the
monia and hydrogen sulfide as an mize the reporting burdens on EPCRA program applies to poultry
“emergency release” under the thousands of family farms related to farmers whose operations house
CERCLA and EPCRA emergency the CERCLA and EPCRA pro- fewer than 125,000 broilers, 55,000
reporting framework. The exemp- grams.” turkeys or 30,000 laying hens. The
tion affects a majority of the family The three groups filed a petition EPA intends to provide guidance to
farmers engaged in poultry live pro- in August of 2005 to exempt poultry assist facilities that house more than
duction that operate in the United growing operations from EPCRA these numbers. The announcement
States. and CERCLA emergency reporting today also provides poultry farms an
“We have always felt that re- requirements for ammonia emis- exemption from filing emergency
porting requirements under the sions that originate from poultry planning reports under the CER-
CERCLA and EPCRA programs production operations. The petition CLA reporting program regardless
were never meant to address the re- for the reporting exemption was of the size of their operation.
lease of naturally occurring sub- based on the fact that ammonia
stances that originate from the emissions from poultry houses pose
6 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry Magazine
Association News
Nov, 11-12 – Auburn University Hotel and Conference Center After
a day on the links or one spent shooting skeet, the poultry pros gath-
ered for the 2008 Alabama Breeder/Hatchery Workshop.
Dr. Joe Hess of the department of poultry science presided over the
morning session following a continental breakfast. He welcomed
everyone and introduced the first speaker, Bryan Townsend.
Townsend, a well known keynote speaker and author, told the
audience, “It is not enough to want to win. You have to want to pre-
pare to win.” He also told the audience, “Enthusiasm is the fly
wheel which will carry your saw through the knots in the log. Put
your heart in it!”
Following Townsend, AP&EA’s Johnny Adams updated
everyone on the Association’s activities. Then it was time to get
down to the serious business.
Dr. Fred Hoerr, the director of the state diagnostic laborato-
ries, updated all on the goings on at the lab and diseases affecting
breeders. Next, Dana Brindley-Bennett, poultry unit manager,
tention with What the Heck is NPIP Anyway?
Dept. of Agriculture and Industries grabbed the audience’s at-
try scientist Dr. Jeanna Wilson discussing Reducing Floor
Dana was followed by University of Georgia extension poul-
Eggs. Feed Withdrawal and Feed Cost for Breeders was the
from Tyson Foods, Inc. A review of What’s Available Today in
subject covered by Dr. Benton Hudson, breeder nutritionist
Hatchery Equipment conducted by Grant McKee, Jamesway
Incubator Company and Robert Bowen, Chick Master Incubator Com-
pany, lasted until lunch.
Agriculture and Industries, presiding, the first presentation, The Latest
After lunch, with Peggy Vardaro, poultry supervisor, Dept. of
in Pullet House Construction, was the next topic discussed by Pat
Next-to-last on the program was a panel discussion, Breeder Feed-
Moates, Wayne Farms LLC.
ing Programs, moderated by Dr. Joe Hess with panelists Charlie Fox
of Aviagen Inc., Dr. Michael Hellwig of Hubbard, LLC and Charlie West-
Concluding the day’s activities was a Hands-on Egg Breakout – Fer-
brook of Cobb-Vantress, Inc.
tile vs. Infertile featuring Dr. Sam Christenberry, director of the Hinton
Mitchem Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.
Many thanks to our VIP Sponsors, without whose help we could
not put on these important programs. They are listed on page 18.
Special thanks to Cobb-Vantress for sponsoring the golf outing
and to Aviagen, Hubbard and Merial Select for sponsoring the
sporting clays
8 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry Magazine
Association News
Nov. 19, 2008 – Montgomery For the 59th time, Clyde, new live turkey, named Clyde, in time for the holidays.
the mischievous turkey had an eleventh-hour pardon ex- The governor would then issue Clyde a pardon.
tended to him by Alabama’s governor. This year, for the Usually the ceremony was little more than a fun
seventh time, Gov. Bob Riley, who, amid expectant on- photo op in the governor’s busy schedule, however, First
lookers, both young and old, signed the letter of pardon Lady Patsy Riley has turned the presentation into a very
and sent Clyde and his consort, Henrietta, on their way, special event on the governor’s mansion lawn to kick
untouched at Thanksgiving. off her holiday blanket drive.
This pageant began in 1949, when, in an effort to Now in his 80s, Bill Bates is a member of the Ala-
promote turkey consumption during the holidays, a bama Poultry & Egg Association and a member of the
young Lowndes County turkey grower named Bill Bates Alabama Poultry Hall of Fame. He is the only remain-
presented Gov. Jim Folsom with the first “Clyde” in the ing turkey producer in Alabama. He sells his dressed
governor’s office. The tradition continued throughout and smoked turkeys through various outlets around the
the years. Each governor would be presented a fresh state and has a restaurant, Bates House of Turkey, just
off I-65 in Greenville.
Alabama Poultry Magazine WINTER 2008 9
10 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry Magazine
Waller Presents Ford Foundation Check
Dec. 3, 2008 – Montgomery Mark Waller of Ingram Farms,
Cullman, Ala, presented Dr. Don Conner, head of Auburn Uni-
versity’s department of poultry science, with a check in the
amount of $16,335 on behalf of the U. S. Poultry & Egg Asso-
ciation Harold Ford Foundation at the headquarters of the Ala-
bama Poultry & Egg Association.
Left to right: Johnny Adams, executive director AP&EA; Mark Waller, Ingram Farms
and USPEA board member; Dr. Don Conner, head of the Auburn University depart-
ment of poultry science; Amanda Martin, new poultry science student recruiter; and
Fred Cespedes, AP&EA vice president, president of American Proteins and USPEA
board member.
Dec. 4, 2008 – After a moment of silence honoring Dr.
Claude Moore and Dr. Mike Eckman, both of whom
passed away in the last few months, the mid-year board
meeting was opened by Association President Ken Ta
ylor. Richard Lusk presented the Allied Committee re-
port having to do with the recent Allied Golf Tourna-
ment which raised $9,500 for scholarships. Roddy
Sanders presented the Auburn Relations Committee re-
port which showed that we continue to have close rela-
tions with the department of poultry science. The
Grower Committee report was presented by Johnny Ad-
cock, chairman of the Grower Committee, and dis-
cussed the series of grower seminars that had been
presented in October at various locations around the
state. Reports were heard from several other commit-
tees, as well.
State veterinarian, Dr. Tony Frazier, gave his report
and talked about budget cutback at the Department of
Agriculture and Industries. Dana Brindley-Bennett,
poultry unit manager, discussed her organizations ef-
forts to test birds at flea markets and fairs.
Jim Donald of Auburn University’s department of
biosystems engineering gave a report on the recently
completed short course on poultry housing.
Our new advisor from the Department of Education,
Mickey Humphries, introduced himself and talked
about his experiences working with FFA.
The meeting concluded with a presentation AP&EA
Immediate Past President Jack Sherwood of the Presi-
dential Award to Dennis Maze for his outstanding work
on the Alabama Immigration Task Force.
Alabama Poultry Magazine WINTER 2008 11Pioneer Profile
Wade Skidmore is a passionate no nonsense kind of feed and seed store, a dairy and a dry goods store. The
fellow. He loves God, his wife and family, and farming. year that Nell and Wade first met, she was working as
And, like many poultry pioneers, he loves to talk about a buyer for her father’s dry goods store in Arab. During
the industry and how it has grown. high school, she gained extra education as a clerk,
On a mild day in early December, I got to meet cashier and buyer in wholesale markets. Buying even-
Wade and his wife and partner, Nell, at their home nes- tually became her own responsibility.
tled in the beautiful Cotaco Valley of Marshall County. In high school, Wade was active and popular with
Though, retired from the poultry business, Wade works his fellow students and teachers, but not a good student.
with his son, David, a grower for Pilgrim’s Pride, who He had difficulty reading and spelling, and though he
has eight large houses. Wade also continues to farm and participated well in class, and retained much of what he
raise cattle. was verbally taught, he did not test well. Unknown to
Wade and Nell have been married for 55 years. him, his family or to his teachers, Wade suffered from
They met in the 6th grade at Arab Elementary when she a difficulty in processing written language, known as
was known as Nell Burden. He says, “I never dated any- dyslexia, that has been diagnosed in people of all levels
one else. I don’t reckon she has either,” nodding to Nell, of intelligence and achievement. Financier Charles
who just smiles and nods back. Schwab and novelist John Grisham are two examples
Nell is the businessman in the family, and Wade of successful individuals who suffer from the disabil-
quickly gives her credit for all of their success. Nell ity. Wade was an excellent public speaker, however,
comes to the business side of their partnership from an competing in FFA public speaking contests, eventually
early age. Her father was a real entrepreneur, owned a making it to the state level. Nell aided him by typing
12 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry Magazineand helping him fore being arrested
memorize his and executed for
speeches. being Soviet spies.
Nell was in the Nell followed
band at Arab High Wade to New Mex-
School for several ico and began her
years, but left the teaching career in
band her senior year the Albuquerque
to join Wade on the public schools. Their
cheerleading squad. lifestyle was spartan,
He had been elected with her teaching
to the squad in the salary used to make
10th grade. payments on the
They both at- Marshall County
tended Auburn Uni- farm. After Wade
versity, but Wade left was discharged in
early due to his 1956, Nell stayed
learning difficulties on, rooming with an-
and went home to other teacher, until
help his father on the the school year was
family dairy farm completed.
and run his father’s Back in Ala-
feed mill. It could bama, Wade got
not have been pleas- back on the tractor
ant for him. Wade’s and went to work.
father was known to Soon Nell joined
chide him for his him and the partner-
reading difficulties. ship was off and run-
But Wade persisted. ning. The little farm
Nell stayed on at began to grow and
Auburn, and three prosper. First, they
years later, in 1953, raised cattle, hay and
graduated with a de- row crops.
gree in elementary They were active
education. During all Wade and Nell with a copy of the first Alabama Poultry Newsmagazine. The in their church, in
that time, she stayed magazine was conceived to serve as a means of communication between the fact Wade began
focused on her various components of the industry. It still serves that pupose. teaching the youth’s
schoolwork and faithful to Wade. Sunday School class, something that he would do for
In 1952, Wade was working hard in Marshall the next 33 years. Nell was active in the education and
County. He purchased his first farm, just outside of music programs. Wade also took over the Cub Scout
Arab, and in 1953, he and Nell were married. That same program.
year, he was awarded the American Farmer degree at Nell had begun teaching in the elementary schools
the National FFA Convention in Kansas City, Mo. But, of the Cullman County School System, but transferred
in 1954 his farming career was abruptly suspended into the Huntsville system after nine years. Like many
when he was drafted into the U.S. Army. teachers, Nell went back to school in the summer
He went through military police training at Ft. Gor- months, working toward a master’s degree. She at-
don, Ga., and, with the shadow of Cold War looming, tended Peabody College in Nashville, Tenn., taking
Wade was assigned as an M.P. at a top secret nuclear courses over several summers. In 1960, Nell, pregnant
research facility in Albuquerque, N. M. It was the same with her first child, Elizabeth (known as Beth), received
facility where Julius and Ethel Rosenberg worked be- her master’s degree.
Alabama Poultry Magazine WINTER 2008 13In 1965 they bought a farm and offered to producers on a
in the Cotaco Valley. That same one-sided take-it-or-leave it
year David was born. In spring basis. The bill would remedy
of 1966, thanks to the efforts of the situation by setting up a
Ralston Purina’s Joe Jones, National Agricultural Bargain-
Wade built his first broiler ing Board to determine “quali-
house. Soon he had three fied” bargaining associations.
houses. Establishing, in essence, an
Teaching in Huntsville, agricultural producers’ union
Nell became increasingly in- with government-mandated
volved in working with special representation and with gov-
needs children. She developed A dapper Galen Grace presents an award to Wade ernment-imposed arbitration.
a growing awareness that her and Nell. It is but one of many presented to the Skid- The Farm Bureau warned of
education had not prepared her mores over their years of outstanding service. dire consequences if the Sisk
for many of these situations. Even though she had re- bill was not passed.
ceived her master’s degree, she continued with her sum- None of this deterred Wade Skidmore. A true con-
mer courses, which were now concentrated on learning servative, the idea of government imposition on his farm
more about addressing the needs of these students. and in his industry did not sit well with him. He voiced
Wade would often drive her to Nashville, and, while he his negative opinion of the bill at every farm and poul-
drove, she would study. try venue.
Nell was not focusing on courses leading towards In late 1971, with the bill, which had strong support
any specific degree, but one of her professors counseled in Congress, coming up for hearings, David Ozment,
her to look into the Ph.D. program. As she began to con- AP&EA executive director, asked Wade to come with
sider the Ph.D. program, she made the commitment that him to Washington to address the congressional com-
pursuing this advanced degree would not interfere with mittee conducting hearings on the bill. Wade agreed.
her family or her church activities. With Wade’s sup- When Wade was introduced to the committee, the
port, she applied for the program and was accepted. house chamber was noisy, but, as he began to speak, an
Nell spent many summers in Nashville. Renting a attentive quiet fell. Speaking from his heart, and with
single dorm room for the summer, she was able to bring the notes that Nell had carefully typed, he held the at-
first Beth and later David to spend the week with her. On tention of all those present. He presented his argument
the weekends, she came home. During this time, against the bill clearly and with conviction. When he
Peabody merged with prestigious Vanderbilt University. had finished, the Alabama farmer was held in a higher
In 1981 she completed the program and received her regard. Congressmen who had been enthusiastic sup-
doctorate from Vanderbilt University. As proud as she porters of the bill were forced to reconsider their sup-
is of the degree, she is most proud that she never sacri- port. Several of those congressmen told Wade that he
ficed her family or her church commitments. had changed their minds, and in 1972, the bill was with-
Back in Alabama, Wade was making a name for drawn.
himself in agriculture and especially in the poultry in- Wade continued his activist role as he testified be-
dustry. In 1971 he became an active, informed and out- fore the Alabama legislature in an effort to get the state
spoken member of the Alabama Poultry & Egg sales tax on agricultural fuels repealed. However, his
Association. Always abreast of issues impacting the greatest success was his single-handed leadership of the
of, well meaning but flawed, legislation called the Na- cision to put farmers under commercial power rates.
farm, Wade began to speak out against a proposed piece fight against the 1983 Tennessee Valley Authority’s de-
tional Agricultural Marketing and Bargaining Act of The rate increase would have increased electrical rates
1971. by a burdensome 29 percent, but, for a while, no one
California Congressman B. F. Sisk had written and seemed interested in fighting it. Wade persisted, and
sponsored the legislation at the American Farm Bureau’s soon he had a formidable ally in the person of Alabama
insistence and with their full support. The legislation, Congressman Tom Bevill. Rep. Bevill was able to get a
they believed, was necessary because contract market- number of public hearings set up with members of
ing terms had traditionally been handled by middlemen TVA’s top management. Wade’s efforts eventually saved
14 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry Magazinefarmers in the states the community and
served by TVA thou- Wade had gone home
sands of dollars by to check on his chicken
delaying the rate hike houses. After making
for more than three an sure that all was in
a half years. order, to everyone’s re-
From the early lief he returned, in time
1970s, Wade was to be inducted into the
closely involved with Hall of Fame, as the
AP&EA. He and Nell first poultry grower to
actively participated be so honored.
in ticket sales for the The ensuing years
“Evening of Fun,” and have been quieter,
in 1976 he was Wade and grandaughter, Sarah, out for a ride on the tractor a few years though still eventful.
Outstanding Service grandchild.
awarded AP&EA’s back. She is married now and has given Wade and Nell their first great- Their family has
Award for Ticket
grown. Beth is married
Sales. He served on the board of directors for many first editor of this magazine. They live in Birmingham
to Joe O’Donnell, the
years representing the producers and a very notable and have four children. Sarah is married and has pre-
during this time that Wade and Nell successfully lob- Gabriel. Joe is the editor of Birmingham Magazine. At
tenure as chairman of the board in 1982-1983. It was sented Wade and Nell with their first great-grandson,
bied the board to start the Alabama Poultry News- age 37, David married Janet, and they have three chil-
magazine. dren. He is a property appraiser, cattle and poultry
Wade was also active in the Marshall County Poul- farmer, and lawyer. They live just down the road from
try Producers Association and Cattlemen’s Association. Wade and Nell.
As a civic leader, his involvement included serving as a Several years ago Wade was severely injured when
Cub Scout master and as a member of the Marshall a motorist struck the tractor he was driving from behind.
County Park Board. He was president of the Arab Elec- And though the prognosis was grave, after numerous
tic Co-op, and an organizing director of the First Federal surgeries and much physical therapy, he has made a re-
Savings and Loan of Arab, and for 33 years he taught a markable recovery. Having Nell’s constant love and sup-
youth Sunday School class at the United Methodist port has been one of the keys to his healing. His
Church. unfailing faith and sense of humor have also played an
During all this time, however, he continued to farm. invaluable role in his recovery.
Farming was never easy, but more than anything else, it No longer teaching a Sunday School class or work-
was what Wade loved. He was very good at growing ing with the Cub Scouts, they now work to provide for
things and chickens were no exception. In 1974 and needy families in their community. In fact, a week be-
1975, with his three 12,000 capacity broiler houses, he fore Christmas, when I visited them, their carport was
was given Gold Kist’s Top Broiler Producer award. crowded with bicycles and other items, destined for kids
Wade credits his love of farming to his two grand- who might not get to experience a fun Christmas with-
fathers, both of whom were master farmers. They have out them.
had a great influence on his life. Their partnership has had its struggles and difficult
“I guess I learned most of my elementary skill from times, but, together, they have persisted, never growing
Grandpa Skidmore,” Wade says. “He believed you were tired of doing good. They have put an indelible mark on
put here to work and he knew how to teach you to do it.” their community and on this industry. Wade and Nell
Wade’s commitment to his farm is illustrated by an Skidmore have given our industry role models that will
event that occurred the morning before the luncheon in continue to inspire generations of poultry growers and
the summer of 1989 where he was to be inducted into the producers to leadership and active vigilance in expand-
Alabama Poultry Hall of Fame. The folks in charge of the ing and protecting the rights of farm families. What a
luncheon were informed that Wade had gone home to his fortunate industry we are to be blessed with such men
farm. A storm the night before had knocked out power to and women of vision and integrity.
Alabama Poultry Magazine WINTER 2008 15Recipes
As the cold winds blow, nothing warms the soul better than a fresh from the
oven homemade meal. Whether it’s a morning of ice skating, an afternoon of to-
bogganing or just coming in following a long day of school and work, scents of
HONEY BUN FRENCH TOAST
a warm dish cooking in the kitchen seem to spell comfort. Like a fuzzy sweater
or a warm blanket, when the weather turns cold, families turn to warm meals.
Cooking up a familiar and soothing dish leaves the family with a toasty feeling.
When the forecast is for cold weather ahead, comfort food is what is needed! On a cold and snowy winter morning,
what could be better than warm, gooey
Why not surprise your family with an early morning warm treat. Scrambled eggs,
honey buns baking in the oven? This strata
pancakes and waffles are all familiar comfort foods that are sure to help jump recipes takes the flavor (and brown sugar-
start your family on a cold morning. But, if you really want to surprise your crew, cinnamon scent!) of the honey buns and in-
spices lingering through the air! Honey Bun French Toast will have your family
nothing helps to get the family out of bed better than the smells of cinnamon and corporates them into a French toast meal.
This quick-to-fix favorite will look like you
scrambling down the stairs to see what is cooking. This warm and delicious, spent hours in the kitchen preparing. And,
easy-to-make meal can be made the night before and simply popped in the oven the best part is that you can assemble the
Another dish that is sure to become a family favorite is Cheese ‘n Honey
while you get ready in the morning. casserole the night before and simply pop it
Toast. These toasty sandwiches can also be made in advance and served for a spe-
in the oven in the morning ... Incredible!
6 eggs
cial family breakfast or as an “after sledding” warm luncheon meal. French bread,
2 cups fat-free half and half
cream cheese, honey and eggs all spell comfort and are found in this flavorful, 2 teaspoons vanilla
soothing meal.
CHEESE HONEY TOAST
1/3 cup sugar
1 cup dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
French bread, cream cheese, honey and 1 cup chopped pecans
eggs … all classic comfort foods that are 12 slices loaf bread (white or whole
combined in this one flavorful dish. These wheat)
tasty sandwiches can be assembled the night 1/2 cup powdered sugar
before so when your family comes in from 1 tablespoon milk
shoveling the snow or building a snowman
all you have to do is toast the sandwiches In a medium sized bowl beat together eggs,
on the stove or heat them in the oven. Then half and half, vanilla and sugar; set aside.
when it is time to serve, sprinkle each warm Mix together in a small bowl brown sugar
sandwich with chopped nuts, honey and ba- and cinnamon. Spray a 9 x 17-inch baking
nana slices, if desired. dish with vegetable spray and place 6 slices
16 (1/2-inch) slices French bread (an 8-oz loaf) 1/2 cup fat free half and half of bread in bottom of casserole dish. Sprin-
4 ounces reduced fat cream cheese 2 teaspoons cinnamon kle with half of brown sugar mixture and
1/2 cup honey 1/4 cup chopped, toasted pecans top with half of pecans. Pour half of egg
4 eggs 2 tablespoons butter batter mixture over bread, pressing liquid
into bread slices. Place remaining bread
Spread 8 slices of bread with cream cheese. Top each slice with another French bread slices on top and repeat layers. Press liquid
slice. Place 8 cream cheese sandwiches in an 8 x 8-inch casserole dish. Combine honey, into bread slices to make sure all edges are
eggs, half and half and cinnamon in a bowl and using a whisk, beat to combine. Pour bat- covered. Refrigerate overnight. Bake in a
ter mixture over sandwiches. Turn sandwiches in batter. Refrigerate overnight or several 350 F oven for 40-45 minutes or until
hours, turning sandwiches several times to absorb batter. Heat a large skillet over medium French Toast is puffy. In a small bowl com-
heat and melt one tablespoon of butter. Remove sandwiches from batter, place sandwiches bine powdered sugar and milk; using a wire
in skillet and brown both sides. If necessary turn sandwiches again to make sure batter is whisk beat until smooth. Drizzle glaze ran-
cooked and sandwiches are crisp. Repeat cooking process using additional butter to brown domly over top of toast. Yield: 6 servings.
other sandwiches. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and serve with honey. Yield: 4 servings.
*May also serve topped with banana slices.
**May also bake sandwiches in oven. In a separate 8 x 8-inch casserole dish melt 2 tablespoons of butter in casserole dish in oven. Remove sandwiches
from batter and place in melted butter in casserole dish; bake at 400 F for 20 minutes and then under broiler for 1-2 minutes (watch carefully).
16 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry MagazineRecipes
When only a hearty sandwich will do, the timeless Monte Cristo is sure to fill the bill.
This classic comfort meal can be served for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. Add a bowl
of fresh fruit for an early in the day meal or switch to a tossed salad if you will be serving
MONTE CRISTO SANDWICHES
it later. No matter what time of day it is served, the warm and inviting sandwich is sure to
spell comfort when the cold winds blow.
Spread one side of 2 bread slices with mustard. Top remaining 2 slices with ham, cheese 4 slices loaf bread (whole wheat or
slice and turkey slice. Close sandwiches with mustard side down. Combine eggs and half white)
and half in a small bowl and using wire whisk beat to combine. Place sandwiches in a 2 tablespoons honey mustard
shallow casserole dish and pour batter over sandwiches, pressing to absorb liquid. Turn 2 (1-oz) thin slices ham
sandwiches and press. Refrigerate sandwiches for 15 minutes. Heat a large skillet over
2 (1-oz) thin slices turkey
medium heat and melt butter. Cook sandwiches in skillet on each side until golden brown
and cheese has melted. May turn sandwiches again to make sure batter is cooked and
2 (1-oz) slices Swiss or mozzarella
bread is crispy. Cut each sandwich into 4 triangles. Serve with baked chips and pickle if cheese
used for lunch. If served for breakfast or brunch, serve with fresh fruit. Yield: 2 sand- 2 eggs, beaten
wiches. 1/4 cup fat free half and half
1-2 tablespoons butter
**May also bake sandwiches in oven. In a separate casserole dish melt butter in casserole dish placed
in oven. Remove sandwiches from batter and place in casserole dish in melted butter. Bake at 400
VIP SPONSORS
Advanced Poultry Equipment and Supply, Inc.
Alabama Power Company
AlaTrade Foods, LLC
Alpharma
American Proteins, Inc.
Aviagen Inc.
Biomune Company
Cobb-Vantress, Inc.
D & F Equipment Sales, Inc.
Elanco Animal Health
Evonic-Degussa Corporation
Federal Land Bank Association of North Alabama
Craftmaster Federal Land Bank Association of South Alabama
First South Farm Credit, N.A.
Franklin Industries, Inc.
GSM Steel and Mechanical Contractors
Hill Parts
Hubbard LLC
International Paper Company
Intervet / Schering Plough Animal Health
Ivesco, LLC
K Supply Company
Marel USA, Inc.
Pfizer Animal Health
Sand Mountain Electric Cooperative
Walco International Inc.
The Vincit Group
18 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry MagazineAM Best Rating A+ (Superior)
Standard & Poor’s Rating AA (Very Strong)
Alabama Poultry Magazine WINTER 2008 19The National Poultry Technology Center Holds 4th Annual Poultry
Housing Technology Short Course
The National Poultry Technol- marily made up of poultry produc- The poultry industry employs
ogy Center (NPTC), a newly- tion personnel, building contractors, some 80,000 individuals in Alabama
formed center in the College of equipment manufacturers, and with cash receipts of nearly $3 bil-
Agriculture, recently conducted it’s lenders that work with the poultry lon. The industry is estimated to
4th Annual Poultry Housing Tech- housing industry. have an $11 billion yearly impact on
nology Short course on the Auburn Along with Auburn faculty, pro- Alabama’s state economy.
campus. This year’s three-day event fessionals from the University of For more information on poultry
focused primarily on issues and eco- Kentucky, the University of Geor- housing or poultry housing energy
www.poultryhouse.com. For more
nomics facing poultry producers and gia, the University of Arkansas, and related information please visit
companies during challenging the Mississippi State USDA–ARS
times. poultry research unit made presen- information on this short course
The short course was coordi- tations at the short course. Some of contact Jesse Campbell, program
Building Structures, Energy Audit-
nated and hosted by Auburn Univer- the topics covered this year were manager for the National Poultry
ing Poultry Houses, Solar Heating campbj1@auburn.edu.
sity’s biosystems engineering, Technology Center by email at
of Poultry Houses, and Alternative
agricultural economics, and poultry
Fuel Sources for Heating Poultry
science departments. The short
Houses. This collaborative effort
course was held at the Dixon Con-
ference Center inside the Hotel at
Auburn University. was initiated four years ago to edu-
Approximately 125 people at- cate the industry on the most current
tended from across the United technologies and practices regarding
States, and international students at- poultry house construction, building
tended from Italy, Mexico, and the retrofitting, and energy conserva-
Philippines. The audience was pri- tion.
20
WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry MagazineNovember 25 – Like an old time tent revival, with foot-washing, smoke
son-Jesse Campbell Get Your House Ready for Winter traveling show to
rising and arms raised, Koch Foods brought the Jim Donald-Gene Simp-
Alvin Sexton’s poultry farm in Butler County. There was even dinner on
the grounds afterwards – in fact, all that was missing was a good old rinky
tink piano and an altar call. Can I get an amen? Oh, yes!
Seriously, the assembled audience of mostly Koch growers saw the
Auburn poultry housing gurus go through all of the necessary steps in
making sure that the poultry house was ready for those chilly winter
nights, especially older houses. They illustrated how growers could eval-
uate their houses and management to find ways to keep winter heating
costs from eating up profitability. That sounds like it’s worth a good amen!
Alabama Poultry Magazine WINTER 2008 21Golfing Perfection, Wonderful
Fellowship and All for a Great Cause
The late October skies were brilliant, the temperature was in the low 70s. It was as
near a perfect day as a golfer could want. On the mountain overlooking scenic Lake
Guntersville, the poultry pros were taking advantage of all of the forementioned, as well
as good fellowship and the opportunity to raise money for scholarships and, maybe, to
win some money for themselves.
1st Place: Frank Baker, Jimmy Hanvey, Chris Pankey and Greg Smith
Winning Teams:
2nd Place: Will Harding, Dale Neeley, Chris Carter and Kevin Parnell
3rd Place: Joe Daniels, Mike Walker, Dale Carroll and Terry Gorham
4th Place: Drew Wood, Clay Bordon, Jim Hipple and Charlie Peacock
Putting contests were held and a longest drive competition. Door prizes were given
and a shotgun was raffled – and everyone got enough to eat. And, $9,500 was raised for
poultry scholarships. It was a fine day.
22 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry MagazineAlaTrade Foods. LLC Franklin Industrial Minerals
American Proteins, Inc. GSM Steel & Mechanical
Bob Cryar Consulting/FMS Contractors
C & E Supply H. J. Baker & Bro., Inc.
Centurion Poultry, Inc. Hired-Hand Inc.
Cobb-Vantress Inc. Hubbard LLC
Davis Express Jones Hamilton Co.
DSM Nutritional Products Meyn America
Equity Group Eufaula Div. Reeves Supply Company
Federal Land Bank Assn, NA Stork Food Systems
First South Farm Credit, NA Reeves Supply Company
First South Farm Credit, SA Van Beek Natural Science
Fitco Walco International
American Proteins, Inc. Franklin Industrial Minerals
Cobb-Vantress Inc. GSM Steel & Mechanical
Davis Express Contractors
Federal Land Bank Assn, NA H. J. Baker & Bro., Inc.
First South Farm Credit, NA Hired-Hand Inc.
First South Farm Credit, SA Stork Food Systems
Fitco
Alabama Poultry Magazine WINTER 2008 23Faculty Profile
Department of Poultry Science
Hires New Student Recruiter
Amanda Martin
In her own words…
“I am honored to be a part of the family in the department
of poultry science at Auburn University. After my first ever
visit to Auburn, Ala., and to campus — I knew this was the
place I wanted to be. The faculty in the poultry science de-
partment is phenomenal, not only do they provide their stu-
dents with a solid education, but also serve as mentors and
friends—and I am proud to say that I get to be a part of that.
Although the poultry science program at Auburn truly
speaks for itself, I do have some goals to promote the de-
partment and programs. I plan on establishing a strong con-
nection with high schools and community colleges — I
believe that the earlier we get in contact with these students,
the better. I want to expand our efforts and also reach out to
inner-city schools, focusing on science classes, to better ed-
ucate the students and teachers about the career opportuni-
ties in the poultry industry. I think our poultry products and
The Auburn University department of poultry processing track has extreme potential to grow and fit the in-
science is pleased to announce that Amanda Mar- terests of students from all backgrounds as well as produce
tin has been hired as a full-time student recruiter. graduates needed for the industry. I will also be working on
Amanda brings a wealth of student recruiting ex- updating information on our Web site and including perspec-
perience to the department. She holds bachelor’s tives from our current students. What better way for prospec-
and master’s degrees in agribusiness economics tive students to learn about what our department offers than
Overall, I have high hopes and look forward to the new
from Southern Illinois University. At SIU, through our very own students and their experiences?
challenges this position brings. I have received a great wel-
Amanda served as recruiter for their College of
come from the department and I cannot wait to start recruit-
Agricultural Sciences and her master’s research
ing for this outstanding program.”
involved assessment of various recruiting activi-
ties. The department is very excited to have
Amanda on board. Her primary responsibilities
will include development of recruiting materials
and programs, co-advising the Poultry Science Poultry Farms for Sale in Alabama
Club, and career placement.
The Progressive Group
Contact Information:
Amanda L. Martin
Has Farms Available in Many Locations,
Six House Farm near Altoona
Eight House Farm near Hackleburg
Coordinator of Recruitment and Placement Eight House Farm near Russellville
Four House Breeder Farm near Gordo
Department of Poultry Science
Two Eight House Farms near Pineapple
Auburn University
201 Poultry Science Building We also have farms available in Georgia
260 Lem Morrison Drive If you are looking to Buy or Sell a poultry farm
Auburn, AL 36849-5416 CALL TOM CROFT
Phone: 334-844-2881 www.poultryfarmsales.com or 770-316-4041
Fax: 334-844-2649 The Progressive Group Real Estate
Email: amartin@auburn.edu
24 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry MagazineAuburn, Ala. — A national research center aimed at bly improve the economic well-being of egg-producing
ensuring that table eggs are safe for consumers and that states and also ensure that consumers worldwide con-
the $4.9 billion U.S. egg industry continues to thrive has tinue to have access to safe, healthy and affordable eggs
been established at Auburn University. and egg products,” said Curtis.
The newly-created National Egg Processing Center Specific research-related issues that the center will
is a joint effort involving scientists at Auburn Univer- address in the next 12 to 24 months include evaluating
sity, Clemson University, North Carolina State Univer- the feasibility of using cold water to wash shell eggs,
sity, Purdue University, the University of Georgia, the determining the impact of specific added ingredients on
University of Arkansas and the Egg Safety and Quality the pasteurization temperature of liquid eggs and iden-
Research Unit of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s tifying production-related factors that impact egg func-
Agricultural Research Service in Athens, Ga. Through tionality.
this collaboration, the center will leverage egg-related In addition to research, the center plans to maintain
research and outreach programs at each of the partner an extensive Web-based technological information re-
institutions, drawing on the different strengths and areas source for the industry and provide a national clearing-
of expertise each has that are critical to sustaining the house and repository for advanced egg technology. It
nation’s egg industry. also will provide direct, on-going education through in-
A university-based center can provide the expertise dustry-targeted short courses, Webinars and seminars;
to address emerging issues, food safety and security develop and disseminate technical literature; and work
threats,” said center director and AU poultry science to expand and increase partnerships and relationships
professor Patricia Curtis. “This center can help support with industry, government and other universities.
the economically important egg industry while also en- An Egg Advisory Council, made up of egg company
suring that the eggs we rely on continue to be safe, and allied industry representatives, will identify critical
healthful and delicious.” issues that the center’s research, outreach and teaching
Auburn University proved to be an ideal location for efforts should address.
the multidisciplinary center, in part because Alabama is For more information on the center, contact Curtis at
a hub of poultry production but also because of the egg 334-844-2639 or email her at Pat_Curtis@auburn.edu,
expertise located at Auburn and its collaboration with or please visit the center’s Web site at
other member institutions, said Curtis, adding that ef- www.ag.auburn.edu/nepc.
forts are under way to identify and recruit world-class
scientists to conduct applied research on a wide range of
egg processing and production issues.
Amid soaring production costs and a woeful econ-
omy, the egg industry’s need for such a center has never
been greater. The center’s scientists will work to en-
hance efficiency, safety and quality of shell eggs and
egg products, provide educational training programs and
customized workshops focused on egg-related topics
and provide additional egg-related courses in agricul-
tural college curriculum.
“Keeping the egg industry competitive and produc-
tive in this global economy will help sustain and possi-
Alabama Poultry Magazine WINTER 2008 25Practical Applications
One of the major challenges facing Alabama poul- 1. availability of new bedding,
try growers is litter management. With high propane gas 2. ability to store/spread the cleaned out litter, and
prices as well as tighter and more energy efficient 3. the length of the down time between flocks.
houses, closer monitoring and better moisture and am-
monia control practices are required. The introduction These three factors are all interrelated from a cost
of attic air inlets used during brooding and in-between and benefit to production standpoint. Understanding the
flocks to conserve fuel and promote drier litter is also relationship of these three variables from both technical
another factor that is changing litter management prac- and economic standpoints is crucial in deciding what
tices. can and should be done with the litter. Changes in man-
The specifics of any house litter management pro- agement of any of the three variable factors have eco-
gram depend on several variables. Chief among these nomic costs and benefits associated with the changes.
are: The purpose of this article is to outline the options
growers have for managing house litter and to provide
Litter management is one of the major challenges facing poul- Caked litter contains between 40 percent and 60 percent
try growers today. Many growers are finding that problems of moisture. When growing birds on built-up litter, it is essential
availability and pricing of fresh bedding, along with fewer op- to remove cake during the down time between flocks. Allow-
tions for disposal or use of spent litter, makes it impossible for ing caked litter to remain in the house will lead to high mois-
them to do a complete cleanout every year. Thus growers often ture and ammonia levels and will make litter treatments
must find ways to grow birds successfully on built-up litter. ineffective. To keep birds healthy and flock performance up,
The good news is that excellent tools and new litter manage- litter must be carefully managed.
ment practices are available to help growers cope with the
challenge.
26 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry Magazinelitter management becomes even more important to pre-
vent flock performance losses caused by high ammo-
nia levels or other poor environmental conditions.
Growers should also realize that over time birds may
be affected in non-obvious ways due to continuous ex-
posure to a subclinical pathogen load (that is, harmful
micro-organisms that affect bird health without caus-
ing obvious symptoms of illness). Growing birds on
built-up litter thus requires careful attention and often
special litter management methods during growouts and
in the down time between flocks.
The housekeeper is the most basic piece of litter conditioning Guidelines for Down-Time Litter Management
equipment. Its purpose is to remove cake, leaving fines and
dry material behind. A common mistake is running the house- There are several methods of conditioning or ma-
keeper too deep and aerating the deep litter pack. Remove the nipulating litter between flocks to improve environment
cake and only the cake, and make sure to get around the edges and performance: in-house windrowing, tilling, decak-
and into all corners!
ing, using litter treatments, and extending between-
understanding of the cost and performance benefits (or flock down time. Tilling and decaking require
penalties) that changes in conditions and management specialized equipment that most growers have used at
practices are likely to have. one time or another; however, most growers do not own
Scenario: Annual Litter Renewal
both. Windrowing can be done with specialized equip-
ment or can be done with a loader or a tractor and an ad-
justable blade, but it takes time and practice to perform
If bedding material is reasonably priced, readily correctly. Litter treatments work well in reducing am-
available and there is no restriction on removing it (or monia levels for the first couple of weeks of the
better yet, having someone who wants to buy it), the growout; however, their effectiveness is dependent on
choice is clear. In most cases where this scenario ex- the amounts of ammonia and moisture in the litter as
ists, houses are totally cleaned out once per year, litter
is spread on the land at recommended rates as a fertil-
izer and an ample supply of new bedding is placed in
the house. The litter pack is decaked between flocks and
the need to windrow or allow litter to go through a heat
with this type of program is much less than it would be
if conditions made annual renewal impractical or too
expensive.
Scenario: Managing Built-Up Litter
If clean, new bedding is not conveniently available
or is too expensive, or if there are restrictions on re-
moving and storing or making use of litter, the choice A six way blade is a basic, relatively inexpensive tool for
comes down to the best way of managing the litter to windrowing. Windrowing litter and allowing it to undergo
prolong its usefulness. The practice is known as grow- heating during down time is a good practice to reduce the
pathogen load which otherwise can seriously affect flock
ing birds on built-up litter. health. Studies have shown windrowing to improve feed con-
In the built-up litter scenario, cake is removed and version by 1 to 2 points. After litter is spread again, allow at
litter is conditioned between flocks, and occasionally least three days ventilating the ammonia and moisture out of
some material is removed from the house to prevent the the house. It may be necessary to make a second conditioning
depth of litter from becoming excessive. When litter is pass over the litter to further promote drying and ammonia re-
lease.
not changed out or replaced on a regular basis, proper
Alabama Poultry Magazine WINTER 2008 27Practical Applications
well as the amount of treatment applied. Extended the cap on a coke bottle. The cake needs to be re-
down time will allow the litter to dry and bring ammo- moved so the moisture and ammonia can be released.
nia levels down, enabling litter treatments to be more When decaking, it is important to get around the
effective. Of course if there are no birds in the house, edges and in the corners. If the machine does not pull
there is no revenue coming in; however, extending cake from along the sidewalls or the corners, it will
have to done by hand. Leaving a 3-foot strip of cake
down time may sometimes be needed to prevent poor around the edge of poultry house is leaving a lot of
litter conditions from causing even greater losses. Fur- square footage that will produce excess ammonia and
ther, studies have shown that windrowing along with can cause problems.
extended down time can improve feed conversion by 1 2. If the litter is deep tilled or is disturbed down to the
to 2 points. Here are some basic guidelines that should dirt pad, all the litter is being oxygenated, which in-
be followed in down-time litter management: creases microbial activity and greatly increases am-
monia production. It is important that if the litter is
1. After the birds have been sold, remove the cake as deep tilled or if the decaker is run at a deep depth,
soon as possible. Cake contains about 40 percent or that the litter be mixed (fluffed) or conditioned at
more moisture and to get dry litter the cake must be
removed. Run the decaker only where the cake is and least one other time a couple of days later. The pur-
run only deep enough to get the cake. Do not disturb pose of this second pass with the machine at a shal-
the entire litter pack, get only the cake. Cake is like lower depth to fluff or mix the top portion of the litter
pack is to speed up and promote the drying of the lit-
ter and help release ammonia. If a second pass of the
machine is not made to do a final conditioning or
mixing, there is a good chance that ammonia levels
will be very high at the beginning of the next flock.
3. If there are health/production issues or if the litter has
been in the house for a year, windrowing the litter
and letting it go through a heat will help remove a
significant amount of moisture and reduce the
pathogen load in the litter, making the litter more de-
sirable for the next flock. (Note that this practice may
also increase house dustiness.) When windrows are
spread out, there will be large amounts of ammonia
and moisture released that pose management chal-
lenges. It is important that growers allow at least
three days ventilating the ammonia and moisture out
of the house after the windrow piles have been spread
out. It may be necessary to make a second pass over
the litter to further promote drying and ammonia re-
lease.
4. No matter which management practices are per-
formed it is important during the time between flocks
to keep the poultry house closed up and run timer
fans during the day to remove moisture and ammonia
from the house. If there are attic vents, run them dur-
A shallow-tine roto-tiller is an excellent tool for conditioning
ing the day.
litter after decaking. Growers should be aware that tilling too 5. Preheat the house for birds as your integrator re-
deep can contribute to ammonia problems. This shallow tine quires. When applying a litter treatment, follow the
tiller, which can be pulled behind a 40 hp tractor and do a typ- manufacturer’s label as to when to apply it and how
ical house in less than an hour, is often used to depths of only much. This will ensure the maximum effectiveness
1 to 2 inches to mix and condition the surface after decaking.
of the litter treatment.
28 WINTER 2008 Alabama Poultry MagazineYou can also read
