The Importance of Being Counted

Source: USDA NASS

Why it is important to Participate in Ag Census every time ! 

Every five years the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service conducts a national census of agriculture.  Every farmer I meet at times feels that this is an imposition and sees this as an intrusion.  At the same time they will use farming trends seen in census data for their farming operations and use the data to help with local governments they communicate with.

Census data collected helps us understand the changing landscape of agriculture over time.  Some of these measures are hard to extrapolate without conducting the census.  Many of those in government at all levels rely on census data from both agriculture and other industries when they consider appropriations for the farm bill, and other local issues.  It is important then for all farms to participate and be counted so that an accurate picture of the current state of agriculture can be made.  For more information on the Ag census go to the USDA website.

http://www.agcensus.usda.gov/

The aftermath looking forward

Source: http://www.co.pennington.sd.us/

Take a moment to survey your housing!          

We have just gone through some of the worst weather this fall.  When these events pop up, it is always a good practice to check your poultry housing over carefully for unseen damage that may have occurred.  Look up into attics to see if any rafters or bracing has broken or come loose.  Look at power poles for splitting.  Open electrical boxes for water accumulation indicating a compromised water seal on the supply weatherhead.  On housing that is over ten years old, things may have worked loose in the wind.  The last thing you wish to see is a weakened roof that would collapse under the next storm.

Look closely at the boots on feed bins for leakage.  Clumping feed is a good indicator that water got into the tank somehow.  If possible, allow the tank to empty and then check the tank with a droplight at night.  This may be able to show spots that may be leaking.

With small flock housing, consider "pinning" temporary housing to the ground using spikes made of re-bar or other suitable materials.  Store summer shade fixtures until needed in the spring.

Clear all drainage culverts around poultry housing of any debris before the next storm event.  With proper precaution, a few minutes will help save hours of repair when you really don't wish to make repairs.

Be Ready for Foul Weather

Take an active role in preparation

With the possibility of storms from the south, farmers should check that:

1. They have adequate levels of fuel in their backup generators, trucks and farm implements.
2. Spouting and gutters are clear.
3. Culverts and other road crossings are clear of debris and free flowing.
4. Drainage and containment structures are clear of any refuse and debris.
5. Review/check emergency call phone lists, fire extinguishers, flashlights and smoke detectors.

For more information and checklists see:

http://readyag.psu.edu/  and

http://www.readypa.org/

Please pass this around to those you know.