1. MARYLAND SMALL FLOCK POULTRY EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
RESEARCH SURVEY
Rhodes, *J.L.1, Timmons, J.R.2, and Nottingham, J.R.3
1· Extension Educator, University of Maryland Extension, Queen Anne’s County, Centreville, Maryland 21617
2· Extension Specialist, University of Maryland Extension, Salisbury, Maryland 21801
3. Extension Educator, University of Maryland Extension, Somerset County, Princess Anne, Maryland 21853
Abstract Workshops
University of Maryland Extension’s Small Flock Poultry
Educational Program (SFEP) provides farm families with Impacts
educational resources to assist with management decisions as
they continue to develop, maintain, and operate economically
viable and environmentally responsible poultry operations.
In 2011, a statewide survey was conducted to evaluate the
economic and bird health and performance impacts of the
SFEP. Small flock owners used the following extension
resources or services to obtain information: small flock workshop
(42.2%), extension publications (34.9%), direct contact with
Extension employee (27.7%) and small flock website
(15.7%). Forty one percent of survey participants indicated that
their flock health and performance improved as a result of what
they learned from the SFEP. Participants indicated an average
increase of 20% in flock income for a two year period (2009-
2011). Participants were asked to report if they have implemented
any biosecurity practices on their premises as a result of the
information they received from the SFEP: 41% isolation of new
birds, 19.3% isolation of birds after showing, 19.3% controlling
traffic, 42.2% sanitation, 26.5% dedicated footwear, 15.7%
species separation, 27.7 % composting of mortality, 30.1%
purchase new birds from National Poultry Improvement Plan
approved hatcheries, and 8.4% provided appropriate
clothing/equipment for visitors.
Locations
Program Description
A series of twelve Small Flock Short Course workshops
were held throughout the state. (2008-2012) This state
Extension program was developed by J. R. Timmons,
J. L. Rhodes, N. Zimmerman, N. Tablante and J. R.
Nottingham. This program was initially funded by a USDA-
CSREES, Special Needs Fund ($52,150). Additional funds
($16,800) to support this program were awarded in 2011 by
the UME Agriculture and Natural Resources Profitability
Impact Team Fund. A website, several workshops,
publications and mailings were developed to promote flock
health among small flock owners in Maryland. Publications
include three brochures titled “Protect Your Small Flock”,
“Preventing the Spread of Avian Diseases”, and “Know the
Most Common Avian Diseases” and Raising Your Home
Chicken Flock (MEP 300) publication was revised and
updated in 2010. Since 2008, twelve 2-3 hour workshops
have been held throughout the state for over 250 small flock
growers. Topics included biosecurity, common poultry
diseases, small flock management, poultry processing and
table egg guidelines... In addition, a biosecurity tips sheet in
the shape of an egg was developed containing the names and
phone numbers of Maryland Diagnostic Laboratories. The
goal of this program was to promote small flock education
throughout Maryland.
www.healthybirds.umd.edu