Forsyth County Center
July 31, 2015
Forsyth County Center
Poultry News
Hello!  Below is VERY important information regarding the Avian Influenza which 
could possibly spread to North Carolina as we see birds migrate south for the winter. Please take note of the information below. In addition to the information regarding Avian Influenza there is also information below on the Carolina Meat Conference and the veterinary feed directive that requires a prescription to feed antibiotics to livestock.  

First, let me introduce myself. As of July 1st, I have officially added Livestock and Forages to my responsibilities as 4-H Youth Development Agent for Forsyth County (which I've now held for ten years). For those of you that don't know me, here's a little background. 
I have a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education with a minor in Animal Science and a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, all from NC State University. My family and I operate a small cow/calf and show cattle operation on my husband's family farm in Stokes County and we raise a few sheep for our children to show. I will do my best to help you with your livestock needs and to balance my time appropriately between 4-H and Livestock. Email is usually the best way to reach me and that address is [email protected]. If you call, please leave me a detailed message regarding your needs and I will get back to you as soon as possible. My direct number is 336-703-2855.  I look forward to working with you!
 Avian Influenza
 

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is requiring ALL poultry owners, regardless of the number of birds, to register with NCFarmID. This will facilitate the department in alerting poultry owners about an outbreak, especially owners in close proximity to a positive farm. Anyone already part of the National Poultry Improvement Plan is exempt from this requirement. An online sign-up form is available here.  Click here for a list of Frequently Asked Questions and additional information. We have been asked NOT to hold any poultry meetings until AFTER January 15th so there will not be any meetings held.  PLEASE practice proper bio-security measures.
 
 

Also, all poultry sales and fairs have been cancelled between August 15 and January 15 including the Dixie Classic Fair Poultry Show. 

Carolina Meat Conference

If you are interested in direct marketing meat from your farm, you may be interested in attending the Carolina Meat Conference.  It will be held October 12-13 in Winston-Salem. Click here for more information. 

The keynote address will be done by Allan Savory and will focus on grazing and the degradation of land.  He has a very interesting 20 minute talk on YouTube that can be viewed by clicking here

Livestock Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD)

Beginning in 2017 the following drugs will require a feed directive from your veterinarian in order to purchase them:  

  • Neomycin
  • Tylosin
  • Virginiamycin
  • Chlortetracycline
  • Oxytetracycline
  • Tilmicosin already requires a VFD.

If you typically feed a medicated feed, use mineral with antibiotics, etc, you will need a VFD in order to continue.  I cannot stress enough the importance of establishing a relationship with a large animal vet NOW that knows your flock, your practices, etc.  Don't wait until you need them.

 

There is a great Frequently Asked Questions document here that should answer most of your questions. 


Contact:
April Bowman, 4-H and Livestock Agent
1450 Fairchild Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27105
336-703-2850
http://forsyth.cc/CES