1. Implement Strict Biosecurity Measures 2. Keep Detailed Records 3. Invest in Quality Infrastructure and Maintenance 4. Stay Informed 5. Maintain Adequate Insurance Coverage
Poultry farming can be a lucrative business, but it also comes with significant risks. From disease outbreaks to natural disasters, a variety of factors can threaten the health and well-being of your birds and ultimately impact your bottom line. As insurance experts in the poultry confinement niche, we understand the importance of mitigating risk in poultry farming. In this blog post, we'll share 5 tips on how to do just that.
1. Implement Strict Biosecurity Measures
One of the most effective ways to prevent disease outbreaks is to implement strict biosecurity measures. This includes practices like controlling access to your farm, limiting visitors, and ensuring proper sanitation. Additionally, all workers should be trained on the importance of biosecurity and follow strict protocols to prevent the spread of disease.
These measures are critical in the safety of your birds, but unfortunately disease can spread even if all protocols are strictly followed. As seen in the most recent outbreak of Avian Influenza (AI) with over 58 million birds affected, disease can spread rapidly and have drastic consequences. If even one bird in a flock is infected by AI, the entire flock will have to be put down.
AI is just one disease that birds are susceptible to and its effects can be extremely costly. Luckily, there is a way to prevent AI with vaccines. There are also insurance companies who offer protection against disease outbreaks. For example, Poultry Plus offers Poultry Specialty Endorsement which provides farmers the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are protected if outbreaks occur.
2. Keep Detailed Records
Keeping detailed records of all aspects of your poultry farming operation is crucial for managing risk. This includes tracking the health of your birds, feed and water consumption, any treatments or medications administered, temperatures within your poultry houses, and performed maintenance. In the event of an outbreak, equipment breakdown, fire, or other issue, these records can help identify potential sources of the problem and determine the best course of action.
3. Invest in Quality Infrastructure and Maintenance
Your poultry housing and equipment play a critical role in the health and safety of your birds and the longevity of your poultry houses. Investing in quality infrastructure can help mitigate risks associated with natural disasters and other environmental factors. For example, ensuring your housing is well-ventilated can help prevent respiratory issues, while properly installed and maintained equipment can prevent fires and other accidents.
You can learn more from the National Poultry Technology Center for best practices when it comes to poultry construction and maintenance.
4. Stay Informed
Staying informed about the latest developments in the poultry industry is critical for managing risk. This includes keeping up to date on new diseases and treatments, regulatory changes, and other factors that could impact your business. Regularly attending industry conferences and workshops, subscribing to trade publications, and joining industry associations can help you stay informed and ahead of potential risks.
5. Maintain Adequate Insurance Coverage
Poultry farming is inherently risky, and accidents and unexpected events can and will happen. Maintaining adequate insurance coverage is critical for protecting your business from financial losses. Be sure to work with a reputable insurance provider that specializes in poultry confinement insurance and review your coverage regularly to ensure it meets your needs.
ARU offers superior value to farmers for just this reason - we were founded specifically to serve the poultry confinement industry. We understand the ins and outs of poultry farming and work closely and collaboratively with policyholders to mitigate their risks.
Mitigating risk in poultry farming requires a multi-faceted approach. By following these tips and working with a trusted insurance provider like ARU, you can help ensure the long-term success of your poultry farming business.
To learn more about ARU and the coverages we offer, please visit our Poultry Express and Poultry Plus webpages.
Please note that ARU only works with licensed insurance brokers. Please reach out to your broker if you would like to obtain a quote from ARU. If you are a licensed insurance agent and would like to learn more about our poultry products and appointment process, please schedule a call with us.
**PLEASE NOTE THAT ARU MARKETS OUR PRODUCTS ONLY THROUGH LICENSED INSURANCE BROKERS. WE ARE NOT ABLE TO PROVIDE QUOTES OR INSURANCE GUIDANCE FOR FARM OWNERS**