Episode 36: Harvesting Hope: How the Poultry Industry Can Support Harvest Hands

Preventing Scavenging of Deadstock: What's Changed and What Still Works? We're revisiting deadstock management with OMAFA Poultry Specialist Al Dam. Following our March 2025 conversation with Al Dam and Dan Ward, we're taking another look at predator-proof designs, scavenger prevention, biosecurity and the practical things producers should be checking on their farms. In this episode, Al Dam will explain practical insights for meaningful management of deadstock.  The Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC) website https://www.cwhc-rcsf.ca/ includes reports and submission information, including their phone number: 1.866.673.4781 A copy of OMAFA's deadstock management sheet is also found here: www.poultryindustrycouncil.ca/downloads/hpai-deadstock-omafra.pdf

High temperatures can increase the risk of heat stress during broiler catching and transport, making careful planning essential for protecting bird welfare.  In this episode of In the Coop, hosts speak with Sarah Sheppard of Moonfleet Poultry about preparing flocks for hot weather loadouts. Sarah discusses the importance of planning around weather conditions, maximizing barn ventilation, maintaining water availability before catching, coordinating with catching crews and transporters, and recognizing the early signs of heat stress.  Listeners will gain practical, on-farm strategies to help improve bird comfort, reduce transport losses, and ensure a safe and successful loadout during the hottest days of the year.  Key topics include:  Scheduling loadouts during cooler parts of the day  Preparing barns for hot weather catching  Managing ventilation and water access  Coordinating with catching crews and transporters  Recognizing and responding to heat stress 

This month on In the Coop, hosts are joined by Dr. Cynthia Philippe of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to discuss the evolving reality of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). From biosecurity and wildlife risks to vaccination discussions and future preparedness, this episode explores what poultry producers can do today to strengthen their resilience against one of the industry's most significant challenges. There are references to some infographics supplied by CFIA. The 'Tips to Protect Your Farm from Avian Flu' with a list of do's and don'ts demonstrating practices to avoid or adopt for your business can be found on the Poultry Industry Council website. You will also hear about the 'Risk Matrix', which can be seen below.  We hope you enjoy the podcast!

In this episode of In the Coop, hosts Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall are joined by Dr. Emily Martin from the University of Guelph to discuss the evolving scientific understanding of Enterococcus cecorum in poultry. The conversation explores how this once-commensal organism emerged as a significant poultry pathogen, changing clinical presentations observed in recent years, advances in diagnostics and surveillance, and the ongoing research questions surrounding transmission, pathogenic strains, and disease progression. Listeners can explore Dr. Martin's publication, Enterococcus cecorum: Changing clinical presentation in an emerging poultry pathogen, through the University of Guelph Animal Health Laboratory: University of Guelph Animal Health Laboratory Article Additional enterococcosis resources, including the Merck Veterinary Manual compendium available through the Poultry Industry Council, can be accessed here: Poultry Industry Council Vet Compendium

In this episode of In the Coop, Charlotte and Tom speak with Jim Collins and Amy Collins from Harvest Hands about how their organization is addressing food insecurity and the critical role poultry protein plays in supporting families and communities. They explore how Ontario poultry producers and industry partners can get involved—through donating chicken, turkey, or eggs, or by volunteering their time as a team-building opportunity. To learn more or get involved, visit HarvestHands.ca and see how your operation can make a meaningful impact. Check out their website, and look over the current needs to see how you can help them support their community today!

In this episode of In the Coop, Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall speak with Paul Stehelin from Polaron Solar about how on-farm solar is becoming a practical and cost-effective solution for Ontario poultry producers. The days are getting longer, which means more sunlight and more potential! They break down what a customized solar study includes, explore available incentives—including Ontario's new rebate of up to $860,000—and walk through real financial projections such as energy savings, return on investment, and payback timelines. If you're looking to reduce operating costs and improve long-term energy resilience on your farm, this episode offers clear, actionable insights to help you evaluate whether solar is the right fit for your operation. To find more information, please check out: polaronsolar.com They are willing to offer references upon request! Start your research to gather the information you need to make informed decisions for your business. 

In this episode of In the Coop, Charlotte Wall sits down with Ron Shoup, recipient of the 2025 Ed McKinlay Poultry Worker of the Year Award, along with his nominator, Dave Stanfield. Together, they discuss Ron's journey in the poultry industry, the dedication and teamwork that define his work ethic, and why he was selected for this prestigious honour. Dave shares what inspired him to submit the nomination, offering insight into the leadership and quiet excellence that the Ed McKinlay Poultry Worker of the Year Award was created to recognize. It's a conversation about pride in poultry, commitment to the craft, and the people who keep Ontario's industry strong—one barn, one flock, and one team at a time.

Winter can be one of the toughest seasons on the farm, and in this timely episode of In the Coop, hosts Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall turn the conversation toward something just as important as flock health — farmer mental wellbeing. Joined by Jennifer MacTavish, Chair of the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing (CCAW), the discussion explores the realities of stress, isolation, and burnout in agriculture, especially during the long days and heavy workloads that define February for many poultry and livestock producers. Jennifer shares insights from national research, outlines common stressors facing farm families, and highlights practical strategies producers can use to support their own mental health and that of their crews. The episode also spotlights key supports available to farmers, including CCAW's education initiatives and the National Farmer Wellness Network, which provides confidential, 24/7 crisis support tailored specifically to agriculture. Listeners are encouraged to continue the conversation, reduce stigma, and stay connected to resources designed by and for the farming community. You can call the crisis support 24/7/365 at 1-866-FARMS-01 or dial 1-866-357-6701.  To find more information about CCWA, including programs and resources, please visit their website: ccaw.ca        

🎙️ New Episode: In the Coop – A Year in Review with PIC Chair Caroline Gonano Join hosts Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall as they sit down with Caroline Gonano, Chair of the Poultry Industry Council and representative with Turkey Farmers of Canada, for a lighthearted but insightful look back at PIC's past year of education, events, and industry impact. Caroline shares highlights from 2025, reflects on the value of PIC's founding members and executive sponsors, and gives listeners a sneak peek at the exciting lineup of 2026 programs and events. From Producer Updates to PSIW and hands-on extension opportunities, this episode dives into how PIC continues to support a strong, connected, and informed poultry community across Ontario. A perfect listen for producers, service providers, and anyone curious about how PIC keeps the industry learning, collaborating, and moving forward.

In the Coop – Fogging, Fresh Starts & Farm-Ready Disinfection  In this episode of In the Coop, Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall sit down with Bill Ireland of Arbourdale to explore how their proprietary fogger technology and Arbrox stabilized peroxide solution are changing the way poultry barns are disinfected. From 10-micron dry fog particles to whole-facility coverage, Bill breaks down how this innovation helps farmers boost biosecurity, save time, and achieve a deeper clean with confidence. Tune in for a practical, insightful conversation about smarter sanitation and the future of barn hygiene.