The Turkey Talk Show

From Research to Regulation: How the US Poultry and Egg Association Supports the Industry

Episode Summary

In this episode, we sit down with leaders from the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, to explore how they serve the industry through research, education, technical services, and communication. Representing chickens, turkeys, ducks, and eggs, the Association is governed by a board of industry representatives and primarily funded through the annual International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) held each January.

Episode Notes

In this episode, we sit down with leaders from the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, to explore how they serve the industry through research, education, technical services, and communication. Representing chickens, turkeys, ducks, and eggs, the Association is governed by a board of industry representatives and primarily funded through the annual International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) held each January.

Nath Morris, US Poultry and Egg Association President, shares how the Association advances the industry through programs that support research and the next generation of professionals. He highlights the importance of the IPPE, produced in partnership with the American Feed Industry Association and the Meat Institute, which brings together exhibitors and stakeholders from across the sector.

Paul Bredwell, Executive Vice President of Regulatory Programs, provides insight into regulatory affairs. He discusses upcoming EPA methodologies for measuring on-farm emissions like ammonia and sulfide, emphasizing that while producers should remain informed, there is little cause for alarm. He also outlines EPA’s ongoing review of CAFO inspection guidelines and how potential revisions could impact producers.

Matt Spencer, Vice President of HR and Safety Programs, addresses workforce challenges, noting how the industry continues to navigate labor regulations while also seeking strategies to attract, retain, and protect workers. With more than 20 years in workforce development, he underscores the Association’s commitment to providing resources that support both companies and employees.

Finally, Dr. Denise Heard, Vice President of Research Programs and a poultry veterinarian, discusses current projects, including research into a triple vaccine that protects against Newcastle disease and multiple strains of avian metapneumovirus (aMPV). She also covers ongoing work on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), particularly its spread between dairy and poultry farms. With a robust and adaptable research program, the Association remains responsive to emerging challenges, and all research projects are publicly available on their website, www.uspoultry.org.

This episode offers a comprehensive look at how the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association is driving progress, safeguarding producers, and preparing for the future of poultry and egg production.