The Turkey Talk Show

The Big Chill: A Masterclass in Winter Ventilation

Episode Summary

In this episode of The Turkey Talk Show, Sheila and Gretta celebrate Gretta’s new role as a grandmother before diving into the technical world of winter ventilation. Joined by Hannah Menges, John Menges, and farmer Josh Berg, the team breaks down the essential tools and settings needed to maintain air quality and bird health during the cold months. From sealing curtain leaks to mastering static pressure and heater maintenance, this episode is a masterclass in barn environment management.

Episode Notes

Hosts Sheila and Gretta broadcast from the Iowa Soybean Association studio with some major personal news:

• Gretta’s New Title: Congratulations to Gretta on becoming a Grandma! She welcomes baby Cohen to the family.
• The "Nose Test": Sheila shares a "ventilation crisis" at home involving a mystery smell, a gas detector, and a hunt for a dead mouse. This serves as a reminder: if a small smell can disrupt a home, imagine the impact of poor air quality in a barn with thousands of birds!

Deep Dive: The Science of Winter Ventilation

The hosts are joined by Hannah Menges, John Menges, and Iowa turkey farmer Josh Berg to "further process" why air quality is a make-or-break factor during the winter months.

1. Essential Tools for the Job

To manage ventilation properly, you need more than just your "nose." The experts recommend:

• Magnehelic Gauge: To measure and compare static pressure against your controller.
• Amprobe: To monitor CO2 levels, humidity, and temperature.
• Smoke Emitters: The best way to visually track airflow and ensure air is heating up before hitting the birds.
• Humidity Meter: A simple $10 tool can be a lifesaver. Keep humidity between 40% and 60%.

2. Sealing the Barn (Limiting Incoming Air)

Before you can control air, you have to stop leaks:

• Seal Curtains: Repair holes and seal the tops and bottoms. Adding bubble wrap can provide extra insulation.
• Doors & Inlets: Ensure end doors, side doors, and sill plates are sealed tight. Inlets must close completely when not in use.

3. The "Tight Test" & Static Pressure (SP)

The goal is Power Ventilation, which is more ideal than "crack" ventilation.

• Target: Aim for at least .15 SP.
• Guidance: For a 50' wide house, run .10 – .12 SP. For a 63' wide house, run .12 – .14 SP.
• Avoid "Crack" Venting: Low SP (below .15) allows air to enter through cracks rather than controlled inlets, leading to poor mixing and chilled birds.

4. Heater Maintenance & CO2

• Target CO2: Keep levels under 2500ppm. High CO2 often stems from inefficient heaters, not just low ventilation.
• BTU Requirement: Ensure you have 70 BTUs per sq. ft.
• Clean Burn: Maintenance is key. Dirty stoves lead to low heat output and dangerous CO2/CO levels.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

• Episode Sponsor: Best Veterinary Solutions, Inc. (BVS): Providing innovative animal health solutions and high-quality manufacturing out of Ellsworth, IA.
• Industry Partners: Tyson Foods and West Liberty Foods.

Final Takeaways & Call to Action

1. Gear Up: Ensure you have your magnehelic, amprobe, and smoke emitters ready.
2. Attention to Detail: Small leaks lead to big heat loss.
3. Ask for Help: Don't manage air quality alone—reach out to experts like the Menges team.

Join the conversation! Follow The Turkey Talk Show on Facebook. Like and share this episode with your colleagues!