By Renae Larson University of Minnesota Extension – Poultry Communications Intern In the United States, there are many different levels of poultry production systems ranging from small-scale to large-scale. Over the last couple of years, there has been an increasing number of small-scale poultry farming systems popping up across the country. A small-scale system can house as few as two birds or as many as a couple hundred of birds. Researchers at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina studied the nutritional, environmental and social impacts of small-scale systems. The management process of small-scale poultry farming systems most commonly involve pasture grazing, processing the birds on the farm, and selling the meat at local markets. The goals of these systems not only focus on maximizing yield and maintaining sustainable production and profit but also are meant to provide social impacts and environmental benefits to their land. The Appalachian University res
Poultry and animal health scientists and educators at University of Minnesota Extension provide up to date, research-based information on avian health and production in the Midwest.