For this year’s poultry feature, we connected with many industry members. Those from research and academia like Dr. Jean-Pierre Vaillancourt. He and his colleagues from the University of Montreal gave perspective and information on biosecurity and disease prevention that can be universally applied no matter flock size.
Industry members like Peter Draper from Jones Feed Mills gave encouragement to pursue a broader list for future hatchery directories. A list including hatching egg and chick “dealers”, like Jones with multiple locations that would give more regional options. They also leverage their commercial expertise to inform small flock owners. As Draper explains, non-commercial poultry owners can be “vulnerable”, they often lack access to resources and information.
Betty-Jo Almond of AgSights also opened our eyes to the possibilities of a poultry processor/farmer online application that facilitates processing scheduling and information exchange. Processor Links is in Ontario at present and looking to expand to other provinces.
Amy Hogue headed up our poultry story development team this issue. As a result, our poultry feature is also chock full of information about holistic poultry, DIY feed, breed overviews and supplemental lighting.
Last the big farm with a small flock perspective from Chatsworth Farm was priceless. Our turkey cover photo and the informative Instagram post below are courtesy of Charlotte Wasylik, Chatsworth Farm:
Photo By Charlotte Wasylik
Heritage breed turkey at Chatsworth Farm - Vermillion, AB
Heritage breed turkey at Chatsworth Farm - Vermillion, AB
For more news, information, tips and ideas for flock owners, farmers, gardeners and homesteaders, subscribe here and get Small Farm Canada delivered straight to your door!