Coastal Plains Chicken Project - Poultry Processing Demonstration
Extension Education
Margaret Ross
Eastern Area Specialized Poultry Agent
NC State Extension
Trenton
Abstract
The main objective of the 2023 Coastal Plains Chicken Project - Poultry Processing Demonstration was to educate poultry producers interested in learning how to safely and efficiently process poultry on their farms. Another goal was to educate them on the rules and regulations from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Meat and Poultry Inspection Division, to make sure they’re in compliance with the rules that apply to their farm. The methods used to accomplish these goals were offering the class in-person as well as via Zoom and providing various ways to accommodate different learning styles such as PowerPoint presentations and hands-on demonstrations. Agents also had the North Carolina State University Prestage Department of Poultry Science technician teaching how to safely process the birds which meant she was at the participants’ disposal for questions. The results of the program showed 83% of participants improved their knowledge from Very Low to High before the class to Moderate to Very High after the class. One of the most meaningful impacts of the class was donating 73 birds to families in need in local communities. In addition, of the 12 participants who answered the evaluation question about how much they thought this program would save them on their farm, seven said $1-$500 and three said $500-$1,000. Another positive impact of the program included the Carteret County 4-H agent utilizing the chicken hearts and feet from the processing day for local high school science labs. Jones County donated 25 birds to participants of the Jones County Holiday Food Box Giveaway and Food Safety program. Overall, our poultry processing demonstration has proved to be a success year after year and our Extension team will continue to improve and update this program annually to keep it relevant and meeting the needs of our clientele.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Margaret Ross
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Ross, M. Eastern Area Specialized Poultry Agent, NC State Extension , North Carolina, 28585