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Maryland Poultry Educational Program

Jennifer Timmons

Summary

The number of women in poultry production has increased 26% in the Delmarva region (USDA, 2009). Poultry production accounts for 70% of the total economic value of agriculture in the Delmarva area. The University of Maryland Extension has developed an educational program to assist Maryland’s small flock and commercial poultry growers. A small flock program focused on biosecurity and avian diseases. Over 100 small flock growers have attended a three hour workshop discussing several poultry management topics and an 82 page workshop manual was developed and distributed to workshop participants. This manual is a resource for small flock owners seeking flock management, health, nutrition and processing information. A biosecurity tip sheet and contest to promote changes in biosecurity management practices were also developed for small flock growers in Maryland. In addition, a small flock biosecurity resource website was designed (www.healthybirds.umd.edu). A workshop series for commercial poultry growers included such topics as energy efficiency, environmental regulations, avian diseases, and manure handling. Several publications have also been developed. Some of these publications are Broiler Production for Management for Potential and Existing Growers, Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations Guidelines, Common Energy Hogs of a Poultry House and Preventing Fires in Manure Storage Structures. A website for commercial poultry growers (www.mdchick.umd.edu) provides commercial poultry growers with practical knowledge about poultry production practices. The Maryland Poultry Educational program provides women and their families with educational resources to assist with management decisions so they continue to develop, maintain, and operate economically viable and environmentally responsible poultry operations.

Details

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