FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 24, 2002
Small Flock Certification Program
CLEMSON---Clemson University Extension Service and the SC Department of Agriculture have developed the Small Flock Certification Program, designed to bring small poultry flocks into compliance with the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP). Since the commercial poultry industry in South Carolina is valued at $1.5 billion, preventing disease infestations between small and/or commercial flocks is essential. In addition, following the NPIP provides small flock owners with better quality poultry.
The criteria for becoming certified in the program requires that each flock be NPIP Certified and the flock owner be a certified tester. NPIP workshops will be offered twice a year.
To be certified, small flock owners must be a member in a state of national poultry organization including: American Poultry Association, American Bantam Association, Anderson Bantam Club of SC, SC Game Fowl Breeders Association, United Game Fowl Association, Southeastern Game Bird Breeders and Hunting Preserve Association, North American Game Bird Association, Carolinas/Virginia Pheasant and Waterfowl Association, American Pheasant & Waterfowl Association, or any other poultry organization recognized and approved by Clemson University or the SC Department of Agriculture. The purpose of membership in a recognized poultry organization is not only to strengthen these organizations but also to insure the highest quality birds and management systems and to help in the dissemination of educational programs.
In addition, small flock owners must attend a 12-hour (1.5 day) workshop to learn poultry management concepts and principles. The workshop will be offered once a year. Also, to maintain certification in the program, small flock owners must attend a follow-up 8-hour (1 day) workshop to be held annually for continuing education.
Topics for the educational programs include: NPIP Certification; Poultry Diseases; Poultry Parasites; Necropsy and Pathology; Nutrition Basics and Feed Formulation; Biosecurity; Pest and Rodent Control; Farm Management Program (HACCP for the Small Flock Owner); and Being a Good Neighbor. Topics for the continuing education programs include: Genetics; Record Keeping; Agriculture Laws, Rules and Regulations; Housing; Management; Disease Prevention; Cleaning and Disinfection; and Biosecurity
An on-farm inspection will be performed by a Clemson University Extension Specialist to assure that the flock owner is adhering to the criteria endorsed in the educational workshops.
Upon completion of the criteria to become certified, a license will be granted by the SC Department of Agriculture.
Nominal fees will be charged to cover the costs of the workshops, license, roadside signage and inspection.
For more information, contact Dr. Michelle Hall, Clemson University Extension Service, at 864-656-4022 or email.