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These research grants include: Factors Determining Air Velocity Distribution in Tunnel-Ventilated Broiler Houses, University of Georgia; Optimal Sample Collection Methods for Avian Influenza Virus Detection, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service; Using Forced Wing Exercise to Investigate Broiler Susceptibility to Deep Pectoral Myopathy and Associated Changes in Plasma Creatine Kinase, Auburn University; Collaborative Studies on Cyanosis in Broiler Breeders, Mississippi State University; Blackhead Disease (Histomoniasis): Reducing Losses Through Molecular Tracking and Immunization, University of Georgia; Identification of Runting and Stunting Syndrome Etiologies and Development of Experimental Vaccines Using New Approaches, University of Georgia; and Systematic Evaluation of In-House Broiler Litter Windrowing Effects on Production Benefits and Environmental Impact, University of Arkansas.
Research funding was approved by the boards of directors of both organizations, based on recommendations from the Foundation Research Advisory Committee. The committee evaluates research proposals to determine their value to the industry, and then makes recommendations to the boards for funding. Committee members are professional specialists from different segments of the poultry and egg industry who represent a variety of disciplines.
The association's research program dates back to the early 1960s, when funds were first approved for poultry-disease research. It gradually grew into a comprehensive program studying all phases of poultry and egg production and processing. Since the inception of the research program, U.S.P.O.U.L.T.R.Y. has reinvested more than $22 million into the industry in the form of research grants. The International Poultry Expo is the primary source for the funding. More than 50 universities and federal and state facilities have received grants over the years.
"Research has long been an important part of U.S.P.O.U.L.T.R.Y. service to the industry," said Steve Willardsen, Cargill Value Added Meats, and U.S.P.O.U.L.T.R.Y. chairman. "The Advisory Committee is the foundation of the program. Committee members devote many hours studying and evaluating research proposals before making recommendations for funding. We are grateful for their excellent work. And, a special thanks to Dr. John Smith, Fieldale Farms, for his effort and commitment chairing the research committee.
