Farm Help

A small-scale poultry operator could be alarmed by a barrage of feathers in the coop or around the hen lot. But, as Dr. Dustan Clark, University of Arkansas Extension poultry science vet noted, more often than not, feather loss is all just part of the natural process for chickens.

The USDA sets up specific guidelines by which any processor of poultry or other livestock should abide. The Food Safety and Inspection Service’s code of federal regulations – Part 302 – directly addresses all types of livestock processors, and explains not only what types of processing facilities are governed by federal rule, but also what those rules are.

Chicken, a species of foul domesticated early in man’s history. Its scientific name is Gallus domesticus, and it belongs to the Phasianidae family which includes Old World pheasants and partridges. Chickens are probably the most numerous birds in the world, largely, because of their importance as a source of human food. The chicken was known to the ancient civilization of the Indus Valley and was fully domesticated by 2000 BC. Chickens were prized for many reasons in the ancient world. The cock was admired for his courage and pride, and his traditional early morning crow made him valued as a timepiece and symbol of the waking day. The ability of the hen to lay eggs prolifically made her a symbol of fertility.

Whether it stems from a nostalgic idea of a living alarm clock, from fear of chemicals in food or from the simple desire for pets, many people desire their own flock of chickens. Raising poultry used to entail building a complicated coop and a permanent pen, but the widespread use of portable chicken houses has changed all that.

All natural and organic are terms that can be applied to different theories of animal agriculture.

A great deal of time and commitment go into show day. The process starts many months before the show even arrives. The show circuit is a core part of many families and of the beef cattle industry. Investing in this enterprise can include a hefty amount of dollars as well. Although there are a variety of aspects that are essential in preparing for a winning look in the show ring, sound nutrition at home is where to begin.

While it may not directly garner points from the judges, animal hair quality can help make a good impression in the show ring.

Market lambs can be a perfect project for a young show person. The difference in placing at the top of a class begins with planning, selection, nutrition and health, but ends with how the youth and animal perform on show day. Many hours are spent on the farm preparing the animal for the big day and when it comes; it’s time for a show person to shine.

Someone new to the business of raising sheep or goats or an old pro can benefit from advance planning. Steve Jones, Associate Professor of Livestock at University of Arkansas Extension in Little Rock offers some practical advice for the coming months.

Although cattle branding in Arkansas has declined with the rise of ear tags, it still has its benefits. University of Arkansas Extension Beef Cattle Specialist and Associate Animal Science Department Head Tom Troxel noted economic hard times and the high value of cattle have made cattle theft a problem and “branding but can provide permanent proof of ownership."