Thank you to Central Life Sciences, Agrecom and Feliz for sponsoring this episode.

Chlorine Dioxide's are not all the same. There are differences and if you need help - just ask. There are people to help you. 

Reach out to Stewart or Blake with questions!

Call to actions:

1. Know the different types of chlorine dioxide. Make sure to work with a trusted source. 
2. Safety First.
3. Thank you Bethany at Aviagen for setting up a The Turkey Talk Show LinkedIn page! 

Thank you for tuning into this episode of The Turkey Talk Show!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Thank you to Central Life Sciences for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at starbarproducts.com

Michael Hampton with Central Life Sciences joins Gretta and Sheila to discuss fly control on turkey sites. Michael emphasizes why fly control is so important for livestock operations. Turkey sites are the perfect environment for the house flies - so you need to take action now and plan your program. Each fly can lay 100 eggs - so 5 flies could equal 500 flies in 7-10 days! They transmit diseases like salmonella and E.coli so it is important to get ahead of it before it's a problem.

Integrated pest management is the key. There is not a silver bullet. First step is good sanitation, elimination of rodents and good upkeep of facilities. Sticky traps are great for high levels and for monitoring if your program is working. Also having traps, bait and spraying is good practice. The rule of thumb is start early - when temperatures reach 60 degrees and above you need to have your program in place. 

Important thing to note about using bait - rotate the product! We don't want to build up a resistance in the fly population. If you discover you have a problem, don't panic. You can use spray to knock that population down and then add bait and prevent it from happening again. Remember we need to be mindful of our neighbors - good fly control is good neighbor relations. 

Start early. Be consistent. You need a program and a plan. Have rotation built in as well as good management and good sanitation. 

Gretta thanks The Turkey Talk Show's Industry Sponsors - Tyson Foods, West Liberty Foods and Zoetis. 

The Turkey Talk Show will be in the Feliz Booth - #545 at the PEAK Show.

Call to Actions:

1. Start early. Rotate the active ingredient.
2. Good management, sanitation, keep up the facility.
3. Register for PEAK.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Producers can reduce fly pressure by focusing on environmental prevention strategies that make barns less attractive to flies. This includes regularly removing manure and organic waste, eliminating standing water and excess moisture, repairing leaks and drainage issues, mowing grass, controlling weeds around barns, and maintaining a clean perimeter around facilities - ideally extending 40 to 50 yards from the barns. Effective fly control typically relies on an Integrated Pest Management approach, which combines environmental sanitation, monitoring fly populations, and using control tools such as traps, baits, and sprays. Since there is no single solution that eliminates flies completely, using multiple control strategies together is the most effective approach.

Monitoring fly activity is an important part of this process. Sticky traps can be placed at medium to high levels in barns where flies tend to rest, allowing producers to track fly populations over time. Common control tools include scatter baits, fly bait sprays, sticky traps, and traps placed in resting areas. Products should be rotated periodically to prevent flies from developing resistance. Proper bait placement is also critical - bait should never be placed near birds because it attracts flies. Instead, it should be positioned away from the flock to draw flies away from them, similar to the “picnic table rule,” where bait is placed away from where you want flies to stay away.

Fly control should begin before the spring season, as flies often become active once temperatures reach around 50°F. However, because turkey barns maintain consistent indoor temperatures, monitoring and management should occur year-round. Overall, producers are encouraged to start planning early, keep necessary supplies on hand, consult pest management experts when needed, and place fly baits strategically to keep flies away from birds and maintain a healthier environment for both flocks and farm workers.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

This conversation highlights how vaccination strategies are evolving across the industry. Dr. Wileman shares that in some systems, improved biosecurity and stronger overall management practices have reduced the need for certain vaccines. In contrast, Dr. Vanbeusekom notes that in other regions, vaccine use has increased to address emerging challenges. The key takeaway? There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Every region — and every farm — faces different pressures.

Our farmer guests emphasize that flexibility is essential. Programs must adapt to changing disease pressures, management styles, and regional differences. Mistakes will happen, but success depends on clear communication and a willingness to learn.

Key Themes from the Episode:

Biosecurity and management directly impact vaccination needs

Regional disease pressure drives program differences

There is no “right” way — only what works for your farm

Open communication between farmers, veterinarians, and companies is critical

Continuous learning and adaptation are non-negotiable

Call to Action:
Stay disciplined. Communicate openly with one another. Attend industry meetings. Visit with neighboring farmers. Have honest conversations with your trusted veterinarian. And remember — every region and every farm is different.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

We also sit down with NTF’s Leslee Oden for a look at what’s happening on Capitol Hill and get the latest updates from the DC office. Leslee also shares updates on the upcoming Annual NTF Convention.

The Deep Dive: Getting Your LIP Funding

The core of today’s show is a must-listen guide for any farmer who suffered losses in 2025. We discuss the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) and the critical March 1st deadline for applications.

Special Guests:

Ben Slinger (Iowa Farmer): Shares his firsthand experience winning an appeal and navigating the paperwork.

Ron Bradford (Cooper Farms): Discusses the ongoing process and what to expect when working with the FSA.

Key Takeaways for Producers:

The "Vector" Factor: Learn why proving aMPV is vector-spread is the key to winning your appeal.

Eligibility: You must legally own the birds and have experienced loss in unvaccinated flocks before the vaccine became available in your state.

The Appeals Process: Be prepared for an initial denial! We walk you through how to use the USDA National Appeals Division database to build a winning case.

Documentation: Why your veterinarian is your greatest ally in gathering research and support letters.

Important Deadlines & Actions:

March 1st Application Deadline: (Since it falls on a Sunday, get yours in by Monday, March 2nd!).

75% Recovery: Understand how payments are calculated (e.g., ~$22.40 per bird).

Research: Use the search terms "aMPV" and "turkey" on the USDA Appeals site to study successful cases.

Sponsored by: Tyson Foods, West Liberty Foods, and Zoetis.

Join the Conversation! Follow us on Facebook @TheTurkeyTalkShow and share this episode with your colleagues. From our flock to yours—thanks for tuning in!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

• 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!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Sheila’s Near Miss: Sheila shares a funny story about the importance of paying attention to detail, recounting a time she nearly tried to enter the wrong car.

Gretta’s Reality Check: Gretta follows up with a story about her daughter, who took it a step further and actually climbed into the wrong vehicle.

Deep Dive: Water Sanitation in Turkeys

The core of today’s episode features a panel of experts discussing the "hidden" driver of flock health: water quality.

The Panel:

William Alexander (Hybrid Turkeys)

Keith Wingert (Hybrid Turkeys)

John Menges (Independent Consultant)

What is Water Sanitation?

The guests define water sanitation not just as "clean water," but as a continuous process of ensuring the delivery system is free from pathogens and biofilm. It is a critical pillar of biosecurity and bird performance.

Key Discussion Points:

Why it Matters: Clean water impacts gut health, feed conversion, and the overall immune response of the flock.

Monitoring the Barns: The panel emphasizes that you cannot manage what you don’t measure. Regular testing and visual inspections of the water system are non-negotiable.

The Importance of Flushing: Lines should be flushed regularly to remove standing water and prevent the buildup of scale and biofilm, especially in warm barn environments.

Action Items for Growers

Monitor Frequently: Check your water quality and system pressure as often as possible.

Clean Between Flocks: Ensure a deep clean of the entire water line system during the downtime between flocks to start the next group with a "clean slate."

Engage with Experts: Don't hesitate to reach out to consultants or tech reps with questions about your specific setup.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Sheila and Gretta reflect on diving headfirst into this venture, and how much the listener span has grown from only in Iowa, to worldwide. 

We honor the remarkable careers of Jan Johnson and Gail Bertsch as they retire from Select Genetics after a combined 97 years in the turkey industry. Jan, from Minnesota, has spent his career  in various turkey company's and currently works in Sales and Logistics with Select Genetics. He coordinated where poults go and supports customers across the country. Gail, from North Dakota, has devoted all 47 years of her professional life to the company, becoming a trusted, kind, and consistent presence for both customers and colleagues. Together, Jan and Gail reflect on the evolution of the turkey industry, from whole-bird production to further processing and advanced genetics, and share the lessons that guided their success, including listening closely to customers, staying honest, and working hard. Their pride in their work and the relationships they built shines through as they close an extraordinary chapter.

We also introduce the next generation stepping into their roles. Lyuba Desiantnikov, originally from Ukraine with more than 18 years of poultry experience, will be taking over for Jan and looks forward to building strong customer relationships. Kristi Degner, who grew up in Minnesota and brings 20 years of industry experience, shares her gratitude for learning from both Jan and Gail and hopes to serve customers with the same dedication and care. Both are excited to meet producers, support their needs, and carry forward the culture of teamwork and integrity that Jan and Gail helped build.

Call to Actions

1. Follow The Turkey Talk Show on Facebook and Instagram!
2. Have a safe and fun holiday season!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Happy Thanksgiving from The Turkey Talk Show! Today we’re especially thankful for the turkey industry and the incredible people who never stop advocating for it. From NTF and state associations to industry partners and dedicated farmers, thank you for your teamwork, passion, and commitment to success!

The MPF PEAK Show room block and registration open December 3rd! The ITF Winter Convention is December 9-11th , just two weeks away! Pre-registration ends December 1st, before rates go up! NTF Annual Convention registration is now open! 

Our guest for this episode is Bernt Nelson, Economist with the American Farm Bureau Federation. Bernt grew up on a family farm in North Dakota where his family raised corn, wheat, soybeans, and operated a cow-calf herd. He holds both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from North Dakota State University.

Bernt walks us through this year’s American Farm Bureau Thanksgiving Dinner Survey, which measures the cost of a traditional Thanksgiving meal—now in its 40th year. This year the average meal cost was $55.18, or $5.52 per person, down 5% from last year. While 2022 reached a record high of $64.05, this year’s decrease is largely due to turkey prices dropping more than 16% from 2023. However, prices for vegetables and sweet potatoes increased due to natural disasters, including catastrophic hurricane damage in North Carolina, which grows more than half of the nation’s sweet potatoes. Fresh produce remains a volatile market where small supply chain disruptions create big ripple effects.

We also discuss why turkey remains an excellent value during the holidays. Many grocery retailers use turkey as a promotional item, often selling it below cost to draw customers into the store. With sides and additional items driving overall profitability, this strategy results in very competitive turkey pricing for consumers. We encourages shoppers to take advantage of this window. Buy an extra turkey, freeze it, and enjoy a healthy, affordable protein while supporting the industry.

Disease challenges in the poultry sector remain significant. Since 2022, nearly 185 million poultry have been affected by HPAI, with turkeys representing about 10% of cases. Recently, nearly 8 million birds have been infected since September alone. USDA reports a very high virus load across all four U.S. wild bird flyways. Because of this, strong biosecurity measures are more essential than ever. USDA now offers voluntary biosecurity audits for both wildlife-exposed areas and domestic flocks to help producers strengthen on-farm protections.

Another focus is aMPV, first detected in the U.S. in January 2024. The USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics has since authorized the importation of several vaccines to help manage the situation. While not a silver bullet, these vaccines have significantly improved aMPV control efforts.

Tools like the Farm Bureau’s Market Intel reports at fb.org/marketintel, provide valuable snapshots of food costs, agricultural trends, and the economic pressures farmers experience while producing our food.

Looking ahead to the ITF Winter Convention, Bernt will share deeper insights into livestock markets, long-term trends, and the many factors influencing turkey production. He’ll discuss the challenges driving this shift, including disease pressures, input costs, and overall market dynamics, as well as what these changes mean for the future of turkey production and food prices.

We close with a broader conversation about how challenges across all commodity sectors ripple into each other. From disease outbreaks to market fluctuations, these issues shape consumer demand and influence how alternative proteins compete within the marketplace. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as the turkey industry navigates an increasingly complex agricultural landscape.

Read more about AFBF Thanksgiving Dinner 2025 Survey Here: Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner Declines | News Release | American Farm Bureau Federation

Call to Actions

1. Mark your calendar for December 3rd, when PEAK SHOW hotel block and registration open!
2. ITF Winter Convention pre-registration is open till December 1st!
3. Check out the ITF and NTF website for leftover turkey.
4. Check out the NTF Annual Convention information!

Happy Thanksgiving from The Turkey Talk Show!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Dermatitis in turkeys is often caused by Clostridial bacteria that enter the bloodstream through small cuts or a condition known as leaky gut. Once the bacteria spread, they can settle in the legs and cause visible lesions.

Dr. Karen Vignale, Poultry Nutritionist and Senior Technical Services Manager for Turkeys at Kemin Animal Nutrition, explains that this problem can develop when dead birds are not picked up regularly or when bacteria from compost piles are tracked back into barns. These practices allow harmful bacteria to spread and increase the risk of infection.

There are more microbial cells in a bird than actual bird cells, and these microbes play a vital role in maintaining gut health. To prevent leaky gut from developing, it’s important to start with a strong foundation from day one by keeping stress low, starting feed additives early, and preventing diseases such as coccidiosis.

If dermatitis occurs, probiotics can be used to strengthen the gut microbiome and support good bacteria. Other feed additives can also help improve nutrient absorption and overall gut health. Building a strong system early in the brooder stage is key to keeping Clostridial bacteria levels low and preventing dermatitis.

Kemin offers effective programs to help manage and prevent dermatitis. Producers are encouraged to reach out to Dr. Karen Vignale or other Kemin representatives to find the best solution for their specific farm.

Call to Actions

1. Mark your calendar for December 3rd, to register to the MPF PEAK Show.
2. Get on the Turkey Connect App!
3. Register now to the Iowa Turkey Federation Winter Convention and other state association meetings!
4. Pick up your mortalities to prevent dermatitis.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Brian Payne, a veterinarian with Veterinary Pharmaceutical Solutions (VPS) in northern Illinois. After years in private practice, Dr. Payne transitioned into the pharmaceutical industry, where he now helps veterinarians and producers find customized medication options through compounding.

He explains the difference between compounding and manufacturing. Manufacturing involves producing FDA-approved drugs—a process that can take up to ten years, resulting in products labeled for specific species and uses. Compounding, on the other hand, takes an active ingredient and prepares it in a new form so it can be used safely and effectively in another species or situation. For example, a human medication like meloxicam can be compounded into a form that turkeys can receive through their water line.

Compounded products are only available with a veterinarian’s prescription and through a licensed compounding pharmacy. Both the vet and pharmacy must keep records for two years, and each product includes a withdrawal period and a “beyond-use date” instead of a traditional expiration. Unlike manufactured drugs, compounded medications are made on a case-by-case basis to address specific, immediate needs and aren’t meant to sit on a shelf. Veterinary Pharmaceutical Solutions typically compounds prescriptions the same day they’re received, with products often arriving on-farm within one to two days.

Compounding has grown more common in the turkey industry because few FDA-approved medications exist for turkeys. Companies like Veterinary Pharmaceutical Solutions have helped fill this gap by adapting products from other species, following strict FDA and pharmacy board regulations. While veterinarians can compound themselves, most rely on trusted pharmacies to ensure quality and compliance.

Dr. Payne emphasizes that not every drug can or should be compounded, and veterinarians should always start with FDA-approved products when available. If those don’t meet the need, producers can work with their vet to explore compounded alternatives. To learn more or connect with Dr. Payne and the Veterinary Pharmaceutical team, or visit veterinarypharmaceuticalsolutions.com.

Call to Actions:

1. Communicate and work with your vet and/or service tech
2. Seek out new solutions and ideas- through events and other networking activities
3. Send us your ideas for future episodes!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

In this episode of The Turkey Talk Show, the hosts dive into a discussion on antiparasitic antibiotics, known as ionophores, and their important role in preventing and treating coccidiosis in turkeys. Ionophores are administered through feed and work by disrupting the protozoa’s cell wall, allowing fluid to enter the cell but not exit—ultimately causing the parasite to rupture. While some coccidia may leak through, this helps birds develop natural immunity over time.

The hosts explain that ionophores are typically started on day one and continued through 8–12 weeks of age, or sometimes through the bird’s entire life cycle. There are two main chemical options, and producers may alternate between them in subsequent flocks if one appears less effective. It’s important to ensure the correct dosing, as environmental factors like hot weather can impact performance. Some ionophores may also reduce water consumption, and improper use or combining them with sulfa drugs can cause toxicity, paralysis, or other health issues.

As weather conditions fluctuate this time of year, producers are reminded to pay close attention to small details in the barn when deciding how and when to use ionophores. Monitoring water intake, droppings, and other unusual signs can help detect early issues. If abnormalities occur, it’s crucial to contact a veterinarian for diagnosis and to confirm whether coccidiosis is present. Routine posting sessions are also valuable to evaluate if current prevention programs are supporting good intestinal health.

Finally, the discussion emphasizes that failing to monitor for signs of coccidiosis can lead to rapid increases in mortality and secondary health problems within the flock. Staying vigilant and working closely with your veterinarian are key steps in maintaining healthy, productive birds.

Call to Actions

1. List of approved drugs for the turkey industry from Huvepharama found on the TurkeyConnect app under the 'Farmer Toolbox'
2. Communication
3. Stay engaged and educated

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

On this episode, Dr. Eliza Ripplinger, a Technical Services Veterinarian with BVS, and Steven Clark, Veterinary Professional Service Turkey Manager with Huvepharma join us to talk about coccidia and how producers use chemical anti-coccidials to control it in turkeys.

Coccidia is a microscopic parasite that birds pick up by ingesting its eggs from their environment. Once inside the intestines, it matures, reproduces, and damages the gut lining. This makes it harder for birds to convert feed into energy and can also allow harmful bacteria to grow, leading to secondary infections.

Chemical anti-coccidials are FDA-approved synthetic drugs added to turkey feed. When the bird eats the feed, these chemicals inhibit the reproduction of coccidia during its 6–7 day life cycle. They are very potent, flexible to use, and fit into No Antibiotics Ever production programs. They also have a zero-day withdrawal time and are commonly used continuously until around eight weeks of age, often as part of a shuttle program where different products are used at different stages.

Because resistance can develop, most farms rotate which chemical products they use every few flocks. Rotation programs can vary from farm to farm based on local resistance patterns, and veterinarians, feed mills, and farmers work closely together to determine dosages and strategies. Posting sessions are also helpful to check if a coccidia control program is working.

Weather can also influence control strategies—vaccines require live organisms to survive, so they are usually used in cooler, less humid seasons, while chemicals are more versatile and can be used year-round. While chemical anti-coccidials are the most flexible tool, they are also the most prone to resistance, so careful planning is important.

In this episode, we break down the different options for coccidiosis control, the pros and cons of using chemical anti-coccidials, and how different tools can work together to keep flocks healthy.

Call to Actions

1. Consider Resistance
2. Rotate products based on your program and needs
3. Don't used chemical anti-coccodial with vaccines
4. Be smart with the tools we have

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

For soybeans, USDA projects a record yield this harvest. Heavy rainfall has fueled strong growth, though some late-season diseases have appeared. Livestock producers remain the top consumers, with poultry leading in soybean meal use. Despite acreage dropping 5% in Iowa and 8% nationally, strong yields should offset losses, keeping supplies high and prices lower.

For corn, production is forecast at 16.7 billion bushels—up 1.4 billion from last year. While ethanol demand and exports may help, marketing such a large crop will be difficult. Production costs are down 3%, but prices have fallen nearly 50%, leaving a tough financial outlook. Storage adds another challenge, with many farmers likely forced to sell at harvest.

In western Iowa, crop yields vary widely due to disease, wind, and weather. Southern rust has been an issue, though not toxic, while the eastern Corn Belt faces mycotoxin risks that affect livestock feed.

Looking ahead, tariffs, trade pressures, and higher fertilizer costs are concerns. Farmers with strong soils may consider skipping fertilizer next season.

On the market side, U.S. corn is moving into India, and soybeans are expanding exports to balance growing domestic biofuel use.

Meanwhile, U.S. farmland acres have declined since the 1990s due to urbanization and conservation, though technology has lifted yields. Brazil, however, continues to expand acres rapidly and gain market share, raising concerns about deforestation tied to its growth.

Iowa's poultry industry is very important to Iowa's crop farmers. Iowa's turkeys consumer over 60,000 acres of soybeans, or 3.6 million bushels a year. And, soybean meal prices will continue to be low, as we are constantly increasing soybean production. Turkeys are also the second largest consumer of corn in Iowa. Turkey production also contributes to manure application and gives us more local fertilzer options, instead of buying more commerical fertilizer. 

Call to Actions

1. Follow our new facebook page, The Turkey Talk Show!
2. Have a safe harvest!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

You’ll learn:

Why controlled exposure to live, non-pathogenic coccidia is key to developing strong immunity in poults

The three Eimeria species targeted by turkey vaccines:

Eimeria adenoeides

Eimeria meleagrimitis

Eimeria gallopovonis

The two USDA-approved vaccine options:

Huvepharma’s Live Turkey Coccidiosis Vaccine

Immucox-T from Ceva

Best practices for field application, including:

Hatchery vs. on-farm delivery

Spray vs. gel droplet methods

Importance of even vaccine uptake and recycling of oocysts through the litter

Managing litter moisture to support sporulation and reinfection

Whether you're a seasoned turkey producer or just getting started, this episode offers practical, farmer-friendly advice on preventing coccidiosis through vaccination—helping you raise healthier, more productive birds.

Perfect for:

Turkey growers and farm managers

Poultry health professionals

Hatchery teams and technical staff

Anyone looking to reduce reliance on anticoccidial drugs

 Listen now to learn how a well-executed vaccination program can protect your poults from day one.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

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.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

In this episode, Summer Lanier, the ABF Turkey Production Manager at Prestage Farms, on the East Coast talks about the current struggles and changes happening in turkey farming. Having grown up on a turkey farm herself, she shares how tough things have been lately with diseases like aMPV (avian metapneumovirus) and bird flu (HPAI) still causing major issues and lowering turkey production across the industry. She’s hopeful that new live vaccines being developed for aMPV will help turn things around.

She also mentions other diseases popping up, especially on the East Coast—like a turkey version of coronavirus that causes extreme symptoms such as flushing, high fevers, and weakness, even in warm weather. It's hard to treat, and they’re still trying to figure out exactly how it spreads. Overall, the industry has fewer tools than it used too, so vaccine development and prevention have become more important than ever.

Summer points out that aMPV weakens the turkey’s immune system, which opens the door to other illnesses. She’s seen this firsthand on her farm, especially with diseases like rhinovirus causing more problems. She explains that if aMPV can be kept under control, those secondary diseases might ease up too. She encourages farmers to look for patterns—like certain illnesses showing up in spring—and to keep a close eye on their birds, especially after vaccines are given. Early signs like fever or unusual behavior should be taken seriously, and farmers should call their vet right away.

The big message? Pay attention early to prevent bigger problems later. With fewer treatment options available, taking care of birds before they get sick is key. A lot of a turkey’s health comes from its gut, so it’s important they’re eating, drinking, and moving around well. Vaccines might not stop a disease from showing up, but they can help prevent large losses. As things get tougher, the turkey industry is coming together more than ever to support each other and focus on prevention.

Call to Actions

1. Pay attention to details
2. Don't wait till its a problem, if you see something off, call someone for help
3. Details matter, prevention is key

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

We start off by discussing the big question everyone has been asking: Why have insurance rates increased dramatically in the past few years? There has been an increasing number of natural disasters across the country, including derechos in the Midwest, hurricanes in the Southeast, and wildfires in the West. Particularly for Iowa, insurance companies took a major hit during the 2020 and 2021 derechos. Those were both widespread storms that caused significant damage across the state. All of the natural disasters around the country in the past couple of years have caused an increased number of insurance claims to be in and caused everyone's rates to increase.

Another prominent reason is that Iowa farms are growing. There is a high dollar value concentrated in one location, which makes insurance companies re-evaluate their risk exposure. For example, lots of farmers with turkey or hog confinements could have five finisher barns in one location. If that one site gets wiped out, there is a major financial loss in that one spot. As a result, farmers are experiencing being dropped by insurance companies because the risk is too high is a large site is wiped out. Other questions that insurance companies often ask regarding confinement buildings include: What is the age of your barn? Are there any recent structural updates to those older buildings? What's your loss history in the past five years? What is the total insured value?

If you receive notice that your insurance company plans to drop coverage for your barns or other assets, ask if they have any alternative options available, especially if you are with an independent agency that has access to multiple companies and may be able to find a better fit. We also discuss the option of self-insuring, and the strategy of only insuring your revenue-generating buildings to keep your premium lower by reducing the number of assets covered. Finally, we wrap up the episode by discussing Actual Cash Value vs Replacement Cost Value coverages and understanding what those terms mean for your farm.

Call to Actions:

1. Inspect your buildings and equipment to see what can improve your operation.
2. Think about your revenue generating buildings and what buildings are not revenue generating.
3. Visit with your insurance agent, and go over your plan so you can get the full picture of what your plan covers.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Dr. Michelle Kromm with Food Forward explains that antibiotic use in turkey farming isn’t the first step—it’s the last resort. Farmers and veterinarians work together using a system of antimicrobial stewardship, which focuses on preventing disease so antibiotics rarely have to be used. That means investing in daily health practices like adjusting barn temperatures, ensuring proper ventilation, vaccinating birds against common illnesses, and maintaining strong biosecurity protocols such as handwashing, controlled barn entry, and sanitation between flocks. These small, routine actions—like checking water quality and airflow—add up to big impacts. And when antibiotics are needed to help a bird recover, they’re used carefully and responsibly, always under veterinary guidance.

Tools like probiotics also play a role in supporting healthy birds, but Dr. Kromm emphasizes having realistic expectations—probiotics aren’t medicine, and their benefits may take a few flock cycles to show. Clean environments allow probiotics to work better, which is why sanitation is considered the bedrock of stewardship. Farmers are doing everything they can to reduce the need for antibiotics, and they should be proud to share their stories. The industry is often judged on a single number—how many antibiotics were used—but that doesn't tell the whole story. Sharing the behind-the-scenes work helps consumers understand the dedication farmers have to animal health and responsible care.

Call to Actions:

1. Collect the data and tell your story
2. Prevention! Prevention! Prevention!
3. Visit kemin.com/turkey to find more information and products from Kemin

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

At the state level, Jill discussed Iowa’s recently passed $9.34 million budget. While the session prioritized school budgets, property tax reform, and agricultural support. The legislature saw 2,360 bills filed, 176 of which passed both chambers, during the ninth year of the Republican trifecta. Looking ahead, eminent domain will be a key issue. Jill encouraged constituents to engage with their representatives during their in-district time, as these interactions strengthen legislative support for agriculture. The National Turkey Federation will host its “Turkey Day on the Hill” this fall to connect farmers with lawmakers. Finally, Jill noted Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds’ announcement that she will not seek re-election, and discusses how she sees the Iowa capitol moving forward.

Donate to the ITF PAC!

Call to actions

1. Check in to registering for the NTF day on the hill
2. Connect with your local, state, or national representative.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

We discuss how, sometimes as farmers, we "blame the hatchery" for issues, but it is also good to remember that hatcheries also have mortalities for a variety of reasons, a lot due to uncontrollable factors. Eggs and young poults are very sensitive, so all of the little things that could be slightly off can affect the birds. 

Kolby discusses the use of the glass doors Next Nest has, so you can see everything the poults are doing, and how they are acting all from the outside. The doors don't have to be opened and then the air temperatures and other environmental variables aren't constantly changed.

NextNest hatches around 200,000 eggs each day, and with so many people involved, clear communication among employees is essential. Since multiple team members handle the eggs and poults, even a small mistake can add up over time. That’s why giving and receiving feedback is so important—someone might be doing something slightly off without realizing it, and while it may seem minor at first, it could lead to bigger issues down the line.

Next, we discuss how feedback farmers can give to the hatcheries is important. Even little things you may not think are important can be some way that the hatcheries can improve their operations. There are a lot of moving parts to get the birds from the breeders, to the hatcheries, to the farms, and any way to improve operations to be more efficient is helpful.

Kolby discusses the things she thinks it important to do when prepping your barns for poults to come in. Prep your barn ahead of time, before the poults get there, walk through it again, and see if there is anything you missed. She also covers one of her most asked questions, about what the temperature of your barn should be. It is important to set your barn at the right temperature, but what's more important is the floor temperature. That is where the birds have contact with the building, so it is important to check them even slightly underneath your litter, as it is still warm.

Call to actions

1. Be consistent, report your mortality.
2. Report all feedback, good, bad, or otherwise.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Dr. Marie Severyn is the company veterinarian for Cooper Farms and has been a poultry vet for nine years. She has worked specifically with turkeys for nearly two years and is board-certified in poultry medicine.

All birds have about seven air sacs that are essential for respiration. These air sacs continuously feed oxygen into the lungs and serve as an expansion system. However, they are also vulnerable to airborne bacteria, dust, and ammonia, which can lead to systemic infections and diseases like airsacculitis.

Proper ventilation is critical in poultry barns. Without it, birds may suffer from oxygen deprivation, leading to high mortality rates. Air sacs connect to both the lungs and bones, so contaminants can easily enter the body and spread.

Airsacculitis can be caused by viruses such as aMPV, bacteria like E. coli, and poor barn management, especially inadequate ventilation and high ammonia levels. Signs include coughing or labored breathing.

When a bird has a healthy air sac, during a post-mortem examination, it should appear clear, dry, and resemble transparent plastic wrap when viewed internally. Just beyond the nostrils are the sinuses and nasal turbinates, which warm and humidify incoming air. Air then passes to the trachea and lungs. Sinus inflammation can also occur if air quality is poor.

Birds regulate their body temperature through their trachea using humidity. Encouraging birds to move around helps them cool off, especially by getting them to drink water and move off hot litter.

Dust and ammonia must be controlled, as they can paralyze the cilia—tiny structures responsible for clearing bacteria from the respiratory system. Unlike mammals, turkeys do not have diaphragms; they rely on body movement for inhaling and exhaling.

Airsacculitis is often a secondary infection, though it can also be primary. Affected turkeys may not eat or drink due to discomfort and low oxygen levels.

Farmers should check their flocks at least twice daily, monitoring bird behavior, temperatures, and humidity. Tools like ammonia meters and thermostats help maintain proper barn conditions. Ideally, ammonia levels should be kept at or below 25 ppm, and humidity should stay under 60%. High ammonia often corresponds to lower temperatures.

Call to Actions

1. Pay attention to ventilation
2. Check your ammonia daily
3. Do the everyday things extraordinarily well

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Sheila talks about a funny story when she had to take birds to a posting session, and she pulled birds from the wrong flock that were younger than they should've been. 

Dr. Rives explains the posting process. Growers bring in a sample of their birds to a central location, the vets/nutritionists/technicians./etc. Necropsy the birds to look for diseases and other issues that could be happening in their flocks they didn't know about. Postings are primarily done to check for coccidiosis, to look at their intestinal tracts for parasites. Postings are typically done when birds are 2-6 weeks old, because this is a good time to evaluate your initial cycle of vaccines, and there is still time to get ahead of a problem if you see a disease forming in a bird. Some growers do them monthly, quarterly, or when there is a change in their coccidiosis program. It is good to get them done regularly to see what is going on with your flocks, so you can improve their health.

Some tips Dr. Rives gives us to make sure you get the most out of your postings are to make sure the vets are doing all the necropsies in the same way, and for the farmers to take a good sample of their flocks and take average-sized birds from different areas of the barn. Growers are advised to stay and watch the posting sessions, so they can learn more about the birds, the diseases, and maybe so they can do necropsy themselves on their farms if they see a problem. Sometimes your vet or service rep can't get to your farm, so if growers can learn how to do this and know what to look for, they can easily send their vet pictures of problems they see in the necropsy to get insight quicker.

While these postings are beneficial to see what is going on, if you are having a specific problem, it is good to get your vets on your farm so they can see everything that is going on and help diagnose the problem.

Call to Actions:

1. If you are taking birds in for a posting, stick around and learn everything you can.
2. Make sure you're getting a representative sample of your flock.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Dr. Olivia Wedegaertner, the Turkey Account Manager for the United States and Dr. Eric Shepherd, a Senior Tech Services Veterinarian, with Zoetis. 

Dr. Wedegaertner discusses the work Zoetis is doing to get the aMPV vaccine in the hands of farmers. There is a lot of paperwork an regulations to be done correctly with the USDA. Zoetis has already gotten the vaccine to all commercial hatcheries in the US, and they are currently working on rolling out booster doses which is where everyone has to be patient and wait for all the paperwork to go through, as the USDA is still watching closely at every farm it goes to. Zoetis has accomplished distributing the vaccine to a portion of the population and to other companies, but they have also approved for BVS and VSI to be a seller of this vaccine.

Dr. Shepherd discusses the ins-and-outs of applying the vaccine and the proper procedures to preparing to vaccinate. For the vaccine to take full affect, a course droplet size, spray is most effective. This is such a drastic learning curve in the turkey industry because before this virus the most common application was through the water lines. The aMPV vaccine needs to be sprayed at their faces because this virus affect their upper respiratory tract, where there eyes and nose are. When preparing to vaccinate, watch your flock closely and make sure not to vaccinate if the birds are sick. The vaccine won't be as affective if their immune system is already weakened. You also want to limit stress on the birds, by vaccinating during the morning to late evening, not during the hottest time of the day. The lights should also be dimmed and fans turned off. You also will also continue doing your daily routines to keep other diseases, to limit the ability of secondary pathogens to affect the birds. This will contain their reaction to the vaccine, allow them to get over it faster, and build anti-bodies quicker.

So far, no issues have been observed with vaccinating for aMPV or other diseases commonly targeted by vaccines in the turkey industry, with the exception of HE. HE is an immunosuppressive disease, so it is recommended to avoid administering the aMPV vaccine within a week before or after the HE vaccine.

From Dr. Wedegaertner and Dr. Shepherd's experience of seeing this vaccine distributed throughout the country, the spraying techniques and recommendations are all the same, but they are using different Types and giving booster shots at different times because Type A vs. Type B is more prevalent in different parts of the country.

We talked about the equipment and supplies needed to vaccinate. You should have a dedicated vaccine sprayer and thoroughly clean it out before and after so their is no cross contamination or chance you can kill your vaccine. To mix your vaccine use distilled water, a vaccine stabilizer, and a coloring product so you can tell if you are hitting all the birds. It is best to have 2 people when vaccinating to move the birds around properly or if you have a larger barn have multiple applicators. We also discuss what to do with leftover vaccine.

We round out our discussion with Dr. Wedegaertner and Dr. Shepherd stressing the patience needed from everyone to get all of the paperwork and proper channels passed, as Zoetis is working very hard to get this vaccine into the hands of our farmers. Also a reminder that this vaccine is not a silver bullet. It is still important to do your routine biosecurity and disease prevention practices well, to do everything you can to control the secondary pathogens, and that is why aMPV has been a problem.

Call to Action:

1. Make sure you have all your supplies to vaccinate.
2. Fill out your paperwork needed.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

We discuss how marriage is like farming with family, it's forever and you are committed to it. We to often are narcissist and take each other for granted. One of the biggest struggles Andy see's on family farm is for a father-son relationship to go to a partnership. 

Andy address the hardest thing to deal with problems on the farm but the best way, is finding a way to listen and respect each generation, and learn to agree and disagree with each other in a positive way. If your family can question each other in a positive way, that can change your farm dynamic drastically in a such a positive direction. Is shouldn't be about who's idea it is, it should be the best idea wins. This can improve the quality of decision making, rather than complaining about each other and the problems that can turn in to. 

To tackle these family relationship problems, Andy looks at four core areas where everyone always has problems. Before you can fix your partnership, you have to fix yourself. You need to identify each other's strengths and weaknesses and learn how to best deal with conflict that can come from people's habits. If you can change a couple habits that are your weaknesses, you can change the dynamic of your family business. 

At the ITF Summer Meeting, except a different perspective from Andy, and learn to turn your stubbornness from weakness to strength. He will give you practical habits you can take home and implement in yourself.

Call to Actions:

1. Go to www.stubborn.farm and listen to Andy Caygeon's free audiobooks.
2. Make plans to joins us at the ITF Summer Meeting.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Sheila and Gretta announce the addition of a keynote speaker and lunch on the first day of the Summer Meeting! On Tuesday, June 10, at 12:30-1:30 PM, Andy Caygeon, author of "Stubborn" will be joining us! He discusses "fixing the stubbornness" between families in farming and businesses. Also hear from Aviagen Turkeys, Hybrid Turkeys, NTF, ITF, and hear a round-table discussion on aMPV, all on Tuesday afternoon. Book your hotel by May 23rd!

Joining us today is Dr. Eliza Ripplinger and Dr. Corissa Robinson both Technical Services Veterinarians for BVS, Hannah Menges a Technical Services Representative with BVS based out of North Carolina, based out of Pennsylvania, Dr. Elizabeth Beilke a veterinarian with West Liberty Foods.

The ideal time to apply this field vaccine is when turkeys are around three weeks of age, based on current data and ongoing testing. The most common equipment being used is gas-powered blowers, electric wand backpack sprayers. Blowers will spray particles farther away than a wand. It is important to use equipment that fully empties so no vaccine is being wasted. 

The key to effective vaccination is achieving the correct droplet size, ideally between 0.3 and 0.4 mm, small enough to reach the birds’ eyes and nasal passages. This can be verified using water-sensitive paper to assess spray pattern and distribution. Practicing with water beforehand helps ensure consistent coverage and proper droplet size. Factors such as the height and speed of the person spraying, turkey age, and spray distance all affect application quality. The goal is to hit at least 80% of the birds in the face with an even distribution, so stationing people in the barn to gently mix and move the flock is recommended. 

The vaccine comes freeze-dried and needs to be stored in a refrigerator until ready to use. To use mix cool room temperature water (50-70 °F), vaccine stabilizer, and the freeze-dried vaccine. Once mixed you have one hour to complete spraying. 

Attention to the small details is critical, especially in warmer months, to keep birds comfortable and reduce stress. Be mindful of how long your ventilation is off while spraying, make sure you are spraying healthy birds, and be prepared and make a plan when vaccinating so you can be efficient and make sure all birds get sprayed.

Mild upper respiratory signs may occur 4–7 days post-application as viral levels peak; by 10–14 days, the viral load declines, and antibody development typically begins around 2–3 weeks.

Call To Actions:

1. Book your hotel and register for the summer meeting.
2. Do a walkthrough: it is important to have a plan when planning to vaccinate your birds.
3. Buy the temperature alarm for your fridge, so you can make sure your vaccine stays alive.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

We discuss the importance of inviting legislators and other consumers into your farm or business to show them exactly what you are doing, so they can learn more. 

Joining us is William Alexander, a Technical Sales Representative for Hybrid Turkeys with extensive experience in turkey breeding all over North America, South America, and Europe; John Menges from Menges Consulting, who brings 37 years of industry expertise; and Andria Volkmann, a turkey farmer with 22 years of hands-on experience, particularly in brooder barn management, to discuss setting up your Brooder House for new poults and everything you need to know.

To start off, we discuss the importance of testing your ventilation system to make sure it is working correctly. It is good to do the 'tight test' at least once a year to find issues, such as draft problems. It is also good to always check your static pressure meter, and doing these things combined will make sure the oxygen levels are high enough and carbon dioxide levels are low enough for the poults. If there are problems in your ventilation, you can add stir-fans in your barn to push around and blend the hot and cold air together so the air temperature is cohesive across the whole barn.

Your floor temperature should be around 92-95 degrees Fahrenheit, especially to prevent flip-overs and tip-overs. We discuss the differences in practices when getting your barn ready in the winter vs. the summer to get the floor to the correct temperature. 

Waterers should be as low as possible to the ground. There should be plenty of feed and water out, easily accessible to the birds. It is beneficial to have very bright lighting in the barn when poults first come in. This helps them find the feed and water easily, because the first 24-48 hrs are crucial to a poult' success when it comes to feed and water intake. Some farmers also use Hydrate products to help birds find water and have extra hydration.

At the end of the day, if you have done everything you can with your barn and set-up systems and still have poult issues you should talk to your poult supplier if you feel you have have issues related to poult quality. They want to know if these issues arise and find a way to fix them for future flocks. 

Call to Actions:

1. Check the Turkey Connect app- the technical Brooder List from Hybrid Turkey will be upload there
2. Check the Hybrid Website; there are 2min videos going over all sorts of topics
3. Be honest with yourself

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Register for the 2025 Summer Meeting, June 10-11! We will be having educational sessions, bags tournament, Topgolf tournament, and networking opportunities!

Dr. Danny McDonald, is an entomologist with CSI with over ten years of experience of insect control in the poultry industry. He has a bachelors degree in Horticulture, Masters in Agriculture, focusing on an insect research projects, and a PhD specializing in invasive ant species.

On this episode we are discussing everything flies. A fly is defined as, 'anything with two wings and which undergoes complete metamorphosis. We primarily discuss house flies, which are most concern within poultry. They can easily transmit diseases-including HPAI. They easily pick it up landing on an infected surface, then can put it where they land or if an animal consumes the fly, they can also become infected that way. The best way to combat fly problems are to control the earlier life stages of flies, which is often looked over, along with the adult stage.

Top 2 Ways to Address Fly Problems, according to Dr. McDonald:

1. Cultural control practices(treat the cause): Flies thrive in wet environment so it is best to instal practices to keep turkey bedding as dry as possible, to keep wet manure out.

2. Target the larvae (maggot) stage of flies: Use insect growth regulators(IGR's) to prevent it from molting to next stage. This is done before bird are in the barn. Applied by granule through a spreader, or in liquid form and sprayed on top of new bedding. 

These don't affect adult flies, so instead when you do have adult fly problems, you have to use a neurotoxin.  Use residual product so it can affect insects that land on the sprayed surfaces. It is good to rotate between the four classes/four modes of action products so flies don't build up a resistance. You can use products that kill flys on contact, when targeting a group of flies on a compost pile or other large gathering spot, but those products will only kill the the flies that have bit hit with the product at that moment, and not affect any later flies that land there.

Right now as it is getting warm outside and it has been raining, is a good time to apply these products if you are getting a new flock in soon. If you have more questions you can talk to your distributor or manufacturer of these products. 

Also can contact Dr. Danny McDonald:

Email: danny.mcdonald@controlsolutions.com  Phone: 817-991-5581

Call to Actions:

1. Make plans to attend the Summer Meeting in Iowa or activities in your state
   1. getting together helps to learn and have fun
   2. book your hotel by May 19th
2. Let us know if you have a podcast topic idea! This is your podcast. We visited with a farmer the other day who had a great idea we are working on!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Get the ITF Summer Meeting on your calendar! June 10-11. Get all the information and register on our website and mobile app!

William, John, and Andria discuss what they do and have seen what works best to prevent and care for poult's that flip-over/tip-over. William shares his best tips when receiving new poults, which is to prepare your brooder barn for the worst case scenario. When receiving new poult's, they can be of varying health condition so it is best to be ready and pre-pared for anything that can happen. Best practices include correct ventilation, easy access to feed and water, and the barn being at the correct temperature. The optimum barn temperature is between 103-104 degrees F for the poult's to thrive. Another thing to check is to make sure carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide levels are not too high, especially because heaters are operating at full out-put.

We discuss the specific things that cause birds to flip-over/tip-over such birds experiencing drastic temperature changes either from coming off the truck into the barn to too cold of temperatures, or the farmer heating the barn too quickly while poult's are in there. It is important to properly heat the barn through days in advance because poult's are not able to regulate their body temperature for the first 3.5 days of life. We also discuss another prominent cause of flip-overs/tip-overs is when birds don't have easy access to feed and water and cannot get access to critical nourishment at this stage of life.

One of the best ways to care for birds that do flip-over/tip-over, is to take them out of the general population and put them into a separate, hospital pen to recover. This pen should be away from the high heat area of the barn, very easy access to feed and water mixed with hydration products, and some practices are to put the padding from the delivery boxes on the floor of that pen to help the birds right themselves up. 

Documents with this information will be posted on the Turkey Connect app under the 'Farmer Toolbox'. 

Call To Action

1. Make plans to attend the Summer Meeting
2. Monitor your poult activity, pay attention to details
3. Communicate so the industry can succeed
4. Set up your barn for worst case scenarios

This episode is sponsored by Hybrid Turkeys. 

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Joining Sheila and Gretta today, is Dr. Mohamed El-Gazzar. He is originally from Egypt, and earned his Veterinary degree and worked in Egypt's poultry industry for several years. In 2008, he came to the US at got his Masters degree in Avian Medicine from the University of Georgia, and later his PhD from The Ohio State University. He became a faculty member at OSU for three years, until 2018 when he got offered a job at Iowa State University and has been there ever since. His favorite part is doing outreach work and communicating with and helping everyone involved in the poultry industry.

We also have guests Josh and Stephanie Miller, who are turkey farmers. They have had their own operation since 2014, when they got the opportunity to build two Grower Barns and one Brooder Barn. Stephanie grew up and worked on her families turkey farm and had lots of knowledge when they started, but Josh had little experience before starting their own operation and had to learn a lot about the business.

The goal of this episode is to help farmers have a better understanding of diseases and how to identify them in their own flocks. The goal of any disease is to control, prevent, and eradicate it. Our world is full of microorganisms, but there are two main types that do cause problems: primary pathogens and secondary pathogens. Primary pathogens are microorganisms that don't need any other help to enter a host. It can enter a perfectly healthy host and cause problems. It is simple and straight-forward, we know what it is and can figure how to treat it. But secondary pathogens are where more problems arise in a population. These are microorganisms that first need a primary pathogen to enter a host, then the secondary pathogen can attack the host. Secondary pathogens can be already in the host, or waiting in there environment around them, it needs that predisposing factor to allow it to enter an organism. The problem here is that, to treat a secondary pathogen, you have to first identify and root cause (primary pathogen). This can be difficult to do and difficult to treat. You have to first address the root cause, then you can address the secondary pathogen. 

According to Dr. El-Gazzar, first you need to identify whether their is a primary or secondary pathogen in your flock, then identify the root cause of the disease, then decide how we prevent, control, and eradicate that disease, not only in your flock, but also for future flocks in your barn, your neighbors, and eventually your state and across the nation. We can't only treat symptoms we are seeing, because those disease are still being allowed into a host when doing that. You have to find the root cause to actually get rid of a disease and to stop seeing those secondary infections come into your flocks.

Dr. El-Gazzar explains how predisposing factors can be anything. Another disease, water and feed intake problems, nutritional deficiencies, environmental deficiencies, problems at hatchery's, etc. It is important to be honest and communicate what you think the problem is in your flock with your veterinarian and diagnostician. It is okay to recognize if their if that problem is something within your operation, because it will help to treat the disease best. It is also very important to address the problem as soon as you see an symptom or issue to stop the disease earlier. 

Dr. El-Gazzar also discusses the research being done on ORT and RIO diseases. These two significant pathogens because we are aren't sure if they are primary or secondary pathogens. Research is being done to correctly classify them, along with where the disease comes from and how they get in contact with a host. 

Call to Action

1. Check the Turkey Connect App for more information from Dr. El-Gazzar about primary and secondary pathogens
2. Communication is always important
3. Prevention, control, and eradication

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Germany has had aMPV for over thirty years, and we discus how they dealt with it when it first started and how it affects them now. They have had a vaccine and regularly vaccinate, and it is not common to find an entire sick flock because of aMPV. One of their common practices is all hatchery's are vaccinating on Day 1. Also some growers there, both vaccinate and do eye drops together for the highest impact against aMPV. Some of their advice is to test out different techniques to see what works best for you and your flock. We discuss what sprayers and droplet size Germany uses in their hatchery's vs. commercial turkey farms and how they differ because of turkey size. 

From what the veterinarians have seen in Germany, there is no cross-protection between Type A or Type B aMPV vaccinations. They don't mix the vaccines in the hatchery's, they only get one or the other, then the poult's go to the farms, are then sprayed again after 2-3 weeks, then every 4 weeks. They also see the importance of having dedicated aMPV equipment so you can avoid killing the live aMPV vaccine.

Other topics discussed were, vaccinating already sick birds and how they have dealt with that, how growers should possibly wear a protective mask so they don't inhale the vaccine, and the differences between vaccinating at hatchery vs the farmer doing it as soon as they get to the farm.

Call to Actions:

1. Make sure that you have a plan for your farm
2. Make sure you are on our Turkey Connect App (Now Available GLOBALLY!)

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Sheila and Gretta praise the work of the industry, with the new aMPV vaccine rolling out soon. The vaccine can't totally eliminate mortality because it doesn't eliminate the infection, but it will help control the virus. It is important to plan in advance and communicate with each other because every operation will have different plans.

Joining us today is Dr. Evan VanBeusekom of Hybrid Turkey, speaking about what is currently happening in the hatchery's and their work with the aMPV vaccine. Hybrid Turkey has been working on implementing and getting the aMPV vaccine on the market. We discussed the learning curve that will happen because everyone will have to learn methods of spray vaccines, rather than the most common application, which is through the water. In Hybrid Turkey's hatchery's, all poult's born after February 26th have been vaccinated with Vaxxinova's aMPV vaccine for Type A, and just in the last few weeks a Type B vaccine from Zoetis has been approved and is starting to be introduced to hatchery's. We know there will be a lot of questions about how much this vaccine will cost farmers, and currently with Hybrid until January 2026, any Tom or Straight Run customer will have no cost to get the vaccine because they are understand that a lot of farmers have had huge financial losses with aMPV. After that time, it is still unsure the exact cost, as every vaccine manufactures has different import cost.

We know that aMPV will never go away and it will become apart of the industry's daily routine to vaccinate against it, and there are questions as to if there will be enough supply to go around. We discuss the issues that could arise with supply, and what Hybrid Turkey is doing to resolve those. Right now the best thing farmers can do is prepare for when they are able to get their hands on the vaccination. Consider which Type of the vaccine you would like to request, and if you are willing to substitute it for the other strain if the one you prefer isn't readily available. There is more cross protection from Type A to Type B than from Type B to Type A, but consider what will happen if you get either. The vaccine types are interchangeable, it just depends on what is best for your farm, depending on the Type you want, your financial position, labor availability, etc. For some farms, it might be best to spend slightly less and get the Type B vaccine. With the Type B you would have to booster more often if you have the labor available. For other farms, willing to pay a little more for Type A vaccine, they wouldn't have to booster as often.

Sheila and Gretta also spoke with Ty Reiner, a turkey farmer in Washington, Iowa. He has had experience raising turkeys since 1996, and has had his own operation since 2019. Ben Wileman, a Veterinarian for Select Genetics, one of the top suppliers of poults in the country, joins us to also discuss what Select Genetics is also doing with the aMPV vaccine. Dr. Wileman discusses how farmers have the choice if they want the vaccine to be applied at the hatchery or if they want to administer themselves it upon the poult's arrival to their own farm. Dr. Wileman also reinforces what Dr. VanBeusekom said, and explained what you could be doing right now to prepare for the vaccine getting to commercial flocks. It is good to talk to your vet and make a plan for the Type you want and the procedures you will implement to administer the vaccine. Ty, asks the question of the actual administration process of the vaccine, and Dr. Wilemen stress the importance that when spraying, the goal is for the course droplet to come in contact with the mucosa layer in the eyes and nose, which stimulates the immune system, as there has been some confusion as to if they want the birds to directly inhale the vaccine.

Call to Actions

1. Talk to your hatchery, decide if you want Type A or B vaccines, and if your going to allow for a substitution if necessary
2. Booster doses: Make your plan, know how your gonna do your blood test, choose between the A or B vaccine, etc.
3. Visit with your veterinarian and technology teams at genetic companies-they are there to help to make your farm is successful

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

aMPV is an upper respiratory virus that suppress the immune system and stays in the birds body for 3-5 days. The primary cause of mortality isn't aMPV itself, it is that the birds immune system is repressed for that time and the turkey's are easily susceptible to secondary infections and bacteria. This is what is causing mortality in flocks. The best way to get ahead of the disease is to see it coming. The first things farmers have noticed before any symptoms show is a drop in water consumption. If you can track water consumption, you can get ahead of aMPV hitting your flock.

The best way to get ahead of aMPV is to:

1. Do the ordinary things extraordinarily well
   1. Feeders and waterers are always full, water is clean and sanitized, temperature of the barn is uniform throughout and birds are comfortable, walking through the barn multiple times a day
2. check air quality and ventilation
   1. High levels of ammonia in the air is not good because in a turkey's windpipe, there are cilia, and there is a layer of mucus on top of that cilia. The cilia move that mucus out of the turkey's airway and it takes the and things it inhales with it. The ammonia paralyze the cilia and this process cannot take place. The best thing to do is to use one of the many tools out there and test the air quality. Ammonia levels should be under 20 PPM which is the baseline for when cilia become affected. Tests should be done once a week or if daily if the weather is volatile and rapidly changing.

There is other drugs and methods out there to help combat disease. There are anti-fever and anti-inflammatory drugs, disinfect mixed with water is commonly sprayed on the birds, essential oil products in water lines, and products that can help thin the mucus and get rid of the bad particles in their systems.

There is a light at the end of the tunnel! There is new aMPV vaccination approved that is new to the market and is being further tested to find the best way to apply it to your farm. It has been applied to hatchery's but we know it will have to be boosted and industry professionals are currently trying to find the best application methods. This is a live vaccine and it seems the best method will be spraying the birds with it. Dr. Ripplinger's best advice for the vaccine, is to practice spraying so when it comes time to apply the vaccine to your farm, you are positive the vaccine will take affect on your birds. She stresses the importance of the time of day when apply the vaccine, you want the birds to be calm and stress free. It is good to have dedicated equipment to spraying and applying this virus because it is a live virus, and it would be a waste of your time and money if it died because it became cross contaminated with other substances. The best tool to test if the vaccine took affect, is to take a blood sample before application and 2 weeks after to look at the antibodies present in their blood. The turkey industry is headed in a positive direction with aMPV, but it will take a lot hard work, patience and everyone's commitment to learning for the vaccine to take affect and treat aMPV in the United States.

Call to Actions:

1. Have your shopping list
2. Find the sprayer that works best for you
3. Pay attention to the little details
4. Know their is a light at the end of the tunnel
5. Communicate what is happening on your farm

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Sheila and Gretta talk about their experiences with speakeasy's, and how it was a secretive but exciting experience.

Joining us on this episode, are Laura Durben and Teresa Sorenson from Empowered Events, the management team behind the Peak Show. The Peak Show is well-known for its trade show, exhibit hall, and educational sessions. This year, the show will feature 70 speakers covering a variety of topics related to the poultry industry. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage in hands-on experiences throughout the event. Register now for The Peak Show! Early bird registration closes on March 31st, rates go up but registration remains open until April 6.

MPF PEAK Show Schedule Highlights:

Tuesday April 8: A kickoff, welcome event 'Unhatched' will be taking place, which is open to everyone and will be having food, drinks, and live entertainment. This is a great way to have fun and network with other attendees!

Wednesday, April 9: The show floor is open from 10am-5pm. This year, they are introducing the new 'PEAKeasy' experience. Attendees can visit sponsor booth to get the secret code to gain access to the PEAKeasy. This will feature local craft beers, mocktails, and other drinks for a chance to rest or connect with others in a different setting throughout the day.

Thursday, April 10: The show floor is open from 9am-1pm, with the PEAKeasy also open. The 'Shell Shocked: Ultimate Omelet Showdown' will also be taking place. Attendees can watch competitors make the fastest omelet and then can enjoy there own omnlet or other breakfast foods, to end the show. 

Jay Halliday, a Marketing and Account Manager for Vaxxinova, discusses their work on the aMPV vaccine. Vaxxinova is the first company to bring a live aMPV vaccine to market, initially focusing on turkey and chicken breeders to help repopulate recent losses. Vaxxinova is working to ensure the vaccine is applied effectively for maximum impact. Vaxxinova will be at the PEAK show, where they can answer all of your questions about the vaccine. There is also more information about the aMPV vaccination product and application on Vaxxinova's website. 

Vaughn Stewart, VP of Sales & Customer Success for Binsentry discuss their innovative feed inventory management technology. Binsentry has 3D camera sensors mounted outside the bin to monitor feed levels inside in real-time. The system takes a reading every four hours, providing growers, feed mills, and integrators with accurate data about bin conditions. Growers can use Binsentry’s software to monitor their bins at all times and receive alerts if there is an issue, allowing for quick resolution. Feed mills can also access customer data, reducing the stress on farmers by managing feed deliveries efficiently. Binsentry will also be at the Peak Show in Booth 1556, and more information is available on their website, binsentry.com.

Call to Action:

1. Don't forget register and book your hotel by April 6 for this years MPF PEAK Show
2. Keep telling your aMPV stories and spread awareness of how this disease is impacting your family farm

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

To start off, Sheila and Gretta discuss their recent visit to a senior Animal Science class at Iowa State University and enjoyed engaging with the students and telling their personal turkey stories. They discussed the importance of young professionals in the agriculture industry having knowledge of the turkey industry, especially with the recent challenges with disease.  

Kim is a local turkey farmer, owner of Ellsworth Turkey in Ellsworth, Iowa. He has been in the business since 1988, raising over 550,000 turkeys, which he markets to West Liberty Foods. His operation has 12 employees and they are always kept busy taking care of their turkeys. Steve is the Technical Services Manager for Motomco, one of the largest rodent control technology manufacturers in the US. Their parent company, Bell Laboratories is the largest rodent control manufacturer in the world, shipping to over 57 countries around the world. 

Steve discusses the evolution of bait and bait stations. There are metal stations, plastic stations, and the most current and popular-weighted bait stations. Weighted bait stations have a brick inside of them to ensure they stay in place so other animals or outside elements can't move them. Bait forms have evolved from chunks and place pacs, introduced in the 1970s, to the most often used soft bait, which was introduced about 20 years ago. 

Kim talks about how he trains his employees twice a year, overviewing proper practices and the importance of baiting. He changes out his baits every week. Motomco has lots of resources on proper techniques, uses, and bait program examples on their website. 

The most important thing when baiting is to have a consistent bait program. Be consistent when rotating baits, changing out baits for fresh ones, and learn where rodents are most likely to be to ensure your baits are in the most efficient and effective place. Steve gives us an example year-round bait program using Motomco products. Most rodents reproduce year-round so it is important to bait year round, rather than only in the fall when rodent populations are the highest. 

Call to Actions:

1. Rodent control is important.
2. Analyze your rodent control plan today.
3. Make sure you are doing everything you can to keep your farm safe.

Mark your calendars for our Area Meetings March 25-27!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Dr. David Brown explained that he manages the ISU Extension and Outreach mental health and suicide prevention education, and also manages the farm stress programs and training for agri-businesses, in partner with the North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center. 

With Dr. Brown, we discuss how some farmers are known to be independent and to hold-back what they are going through. It isn't always their first instinct to ask for help because there is a stigma around farmers and mental health. The mental health stigma has started to go away, and more people are talking about the beneficial resources that are out there, but a survey done says that only 4% of farmers reached out to a mental health provider, even though that has proven to be the best resource for them. Part of this reason the number is so low is because mental health providers in rural area are not very accessible, but in the past couple years since the COVID-19 pandemic, Telehealth calls with providers have become more common. They can be done anywhere, such as while farmers are working, and they are less stigmatizing and more confidential. 

If you see physical changes, or changes in behavior, mood, or thinking in someone close to you, recognize these are signs they could be having a mental health crisis. The best way to support them, is to simply reach out and check-in on them. If you are further concerned about someone, the biggest question to ask them is if are thinking about suicide. Farmers have a higher rate of suicide than the general population because of the stress they go through taking care of their farm. ISU Extension and Outreach has resources everyone has access to such as the Iowa concern hotline (800-447-1895), stress counseling, and they have attorneys on staff if anyone is in need of legal education. Other resources out there includes the 988 National Suicide and Crisis Hotline. Both the Iowa and National hotlines are open 24/7 and free and confidential. 

We discussed stress in the turkey industry with all of the problems going on such as HPAI. It is important to take a minute, to process and relax during those high-stress situations by using methods such as deep breathing, praying or practicing mindfulness. The most important thing you can do for your mental health is to find someone to talk to such as your friends, family, and others farmers. A reminder that everyone is going through these issues in the turkey industry, no one is alone. We bring up the term guilt in the turkey industry. Especially with HPAI, farmers feel guilt for exposing their area if they are the ones who broke the virus, but they also feel guilt if their farm is healthy while others around them are not. Farmers are at higher risk for suicide because of self-blame. Farmers tend to internalize all of the the things happening on their farm, even if there is outside factors affecting them, that they have no control over. It is okay to feel guilt, and farmers should understand that they can't control everything and accept what happens. Farmers should be proud of the food they are raising for people and know their importance in feeding the world. We discussed knowing it is also okay to find the joy during these hard situations because at the end of the day life is about finding the joy and happiness in your life.

Call to Actions:

1. Recognize one good thing in your day.
2. Know that we are a Turkey Family, we are all in this together, it is important to reach out to your circle.
3. Talk to other farmers.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Sheila shares a personal story about her dog leaving a mess - a crappy situation. They decided it is much like the current turkey industry situation.

John Zimmerman gives us information about how he came into the turkey industry and how he got involved in the National Turkey Federation. John served as the President of the MGTA and through that started becoming more involved in DC. A lot of people have questions about what the National Turkey Federation does for turkey farmers. John explains how important it is to have people in DC, constantly watching what Congress is working on. He talks about testifying in front of the Senate - the last year has not been easy. The change of the administration and the egg prices has highlighted our industry. 

Leslee explains that NTF is different than other National Associations because they represent the Allied Industry, the Processors and the farmers. 

We are excited that a couple aMPV vaccines were approved but the work doesn't end there. We will have to work on getting an approval extension for next year. We also need the distribution to flow, we need training, so everyone knows how to use it. Conversations about how to make sure that the time frame it takes to get a vaccine doesn't take that long. What if this happens to the swine industry, the cattle industry. Let's ensure this doesn't happen again. The USDA 5 Point Plan is a good starting point - there is still more to talk about and work on but it's a starting point. 

Sheila and Gretta wrap up the show with their Call to Actions:

1. Sign up for NTF e-newsletter and download the TurkeyConnect App.
2. Remember your State Associations and the NTF are here to support you and represent you. Please reach out with questions and concerns.
3. Take a deep breath and have faith assistance is coming to help protect turkey health.

Join us for our next episode when we visit with Dr. David Brown about mental health and handling stress! From our flock to yours - this is Sheila, this is Gretta. Thanks for tuning in for this episode of The Turkey Talk Show.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

• Hosts: Sheila & Gretta
• Emphasis on teamwork, especially during tough times.
• Reflection on Winter Convention — the information remains relevant and valuable.

Story: Chad & Grant’s Pool Game

• Lighthearted anecdote about friendly competition.
• Highlights the dynamic of team spirit and playful rivalry.

Interview with Dr. Jim Roth – One Health

One Health Concept:

• Links animal, human, and environmental health.
• Recognized globally, gaining traction in public and animal health sectors.

Key Milestones:

• 2004: "One World, One Health" concept formalized.
• 2007: Global conference advocating for pandemic preparedness through health system linkages.
• 2009: CDC’s One Health Office established to connect with animal health organizations and support research funding.

Relevance to Turkey Farmers:

• Tackles disease issues in production.
• Encourages global collaboration for shared health challenges.
• Supports USDA funding programs for research.
• Focus on biosecurity and vaccines to reduce antibiotic use.

Outlook:

• Preparing for future threats like HPAI.
• Potential for new product development with faster approval pathways.
• Promoting engagement and cooperation across sectors.

Interview with John Moline – 2024 ITF Hall of Fame Inductee

• Legacy of the Moline Family in Iowa’s turkey industry.
• Historical Perspective: Evolution of turkey farming over the past century.
• Advice for the Future: Insights on navigating industry changes in the next 100 years.
• Gratitude for his leadership and impact on the industry.

Key Takeaways & Call to Action

Teamwork and collaboration are essential for progress.

Stay informed and involved in industry events:

• Area Meetings: March 25–27
• MPF Convention: April 8–10
• ITF Summer Meeting: June 10–11 (featuring a cornhole tournament)

Connect with Iowa One Health on Facebook for updates.

Closing:

• Sheila and Gretta sign off, encouraging listeners to join the next episode.
• “From our flock to yours — thanks for tuning in!”

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Hosts: Sheila and Gretta

Sheila is looking forward to March because of family birthdays and the ITF Area Meetings. 

The ITF Area Meetings will feature speakers/information on aMPV and HPAI. You can also get your bio-security and animal welfare trainings checked off!

Personal Segment: Things aren't always what they seem while snorkeling.

Sponsor: Tyson Foods

Main Topic: Minimum ventilation

Guest Speakers: Joe Hedden and Eric Mesenbrink

Discussion Points: Static Pressure, CFM's (calculating based off size of barn), smoking the barn and checking air flow.

Call to Action:

1. Mark calendars for the ITF area meetings and check the Turkey Connect app for all those details.  

2. Check your static pressure.

3. Smoke those houses, make sure you know where your air is going and it's doing what you want it to do.

Outro:

Join us for our next episode! From our flock to yours, this is Sheila & Gretta. Thank you for joining us on this episode of The Turkey Talk Show.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Welcome to The Turkey Talk Show – where we further process information every turkey farmer needs to know.

Hosts: Sheila & Gretta

Industry News & Updates

NTF Annual Convention (February – Scottsdale, AZ)

Next week, industry professionals will gather to discuss key topics.

Topics include:

aMPV

HPAI

and much more.

Manure Certification Classes

Start Date: February 10

Important for farmers to ensure proper handling and application of manure.

Personal Segment: Valentine’s Day & Family Stories

Do you typically do anything special for Valentine’s Day?

Story: What is with kids getting sick when you go on vacation?

Hosts share personal experiences, including Sheila’s trip with Chad and 200 of their closest friends (seed trip).

Son Grant got sick right as they left, had to be taken to ER (Influenza A).

Sister had to handle cleanup and family stepped up to help.

Shoutout to family support!

Sponsor Spotlight: Gaydos Technical Services

Experienced poultry veterinarians providing expert advice and solutions.

Specializing in turkeys, broilers, and processing plant/food safety.

Contact:

Email: tj@gaydosts.com, amason@gaydosts.com

Website: gaydostechnicalservices.com

Main Topic: Worming in Turkeys

Guest Speakers:

Ashley Mason (Gaydos Technical Services)

Dr. Elizabeth Beilke

Brad Daufeldt (Farmer Guest)

Discussion Points:

Introduction to Worming

Sheila admits to limited knowledge on worming schedules.

Ashley shares her background and explains why worming is essential.

Ashley, Elizabeth and Brad discuss what they have seen on the farm and in the barns.

Call to Action

Visit the TurkeyConnect App – Check out cheat sheets from our speakers (Farmer’s Toolbox).

Midwest Poultry Federation Peak – Register and book your room today! (Industry News Button).

Give Us Feedback – What topics or speakers would you like to hear next?

Outro

Join us for our next episode!

From our flock to yours, this is Sheila & Gretta. Thanks for tuning in to The Turkey Talk Show!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Industry Challenges:

• Times are tough, with challenges both within and beyond our control.
• Farmers are questioning where their money is going and how it’s being used.
• ITF is here to:
  • Represent, advocate, and support turkey farmers.
  • Provide education through conventions, area meetings, this podcast, and the app.
  • Serve as the legislative voice when farmers can’t be there.
  • Promote the turkey industry and its products.

Message to Farmers:

• "Bottom line: We are here for you. Please reach out with concerns, questions, or just to touch base."

Story: Grant’s Basketball Journey

• Grant, a high school senior, is facing a tough basketball season:
  • The only senior on a young team (mostly freshmen).
  • Struggling with a shoulder injury from football.
  • Facing strong opponents with a new coach and a challenging team dynamic.
  • Despite the setbacks, he focuses on what he can control.

Tie-In to the Turkey Industry:

• Farmers face environmental, health, and labor/time challenges.
• Like Grant watching film to prepare for games, farmers need tools and strategies to overcome hurdles they can control.

Main Topic: Mastering Minimum Ventilation

Featuring Experts:

• John Menges (NextNest Hatching).
• Nick Hermanson (Iowa Farmer).

Key Points Discussed:

Why Minimum Ventilation Matters:

• Keeps birds comfortable.
• Minimizes fuel usage.
• Maximizes air quality.

Ventilation Challenges:

• Static pressure management.
• Brooder vs. finisher ventilation issues—misconception it’s only a brooder issue.
• Decision-making: Should you till or not till?

Practical Strategies:

• Fans, Timers, and Thermal Control:
  • Save on propane and energy.
  • Industry shifts toward radiant tube heaters for efficiency.
• Tight Tests:
  • Steps for conducting a tight test to measure barn efficiency.
  • Tools required and practical application.
• Addressing humidity and airflow concerns.

Call to Action:

1. Conduct a tight test to evaluate your barn’s efficiency.
2. Adapt strategies to fit the specific needs of your farm.
3. Check the TurkeyConnect app for John Menges’ ventilation cheat sheet.

Closing Remarks:

• "Thanks for tuning in to The Turkey Talk Show! From our flock to yours, this is Sheila and Gretta—see you next time!"

Sponsored by: NextNest Hatching

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Introduction:

• Focus on reassessing farm practices in January, particularly compliance with environmental regulations.
• Discussion includes tips for manure management, water quality, and inspections to help farmers stay compliant.

Key Points Discussed:

Manure Management:

• Importance of handling manure responsibly for fertilizing fields while adhering to state and federal regulations.

Water Quality Inspections:

• Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) inspections have increased across the state, focusing on water quality.
• Inspections involve:
  • Manure management plan adherence.
  • Ensuring proper separation distances from water sources and neighbors.
  • Examining compost piles, feedstuff runoff, and overall farm cleanliness.

Composting Guidelines:

• Requirements for livestock compost piles:
  • Base layer: 12 inches of bulking agent.
  • Coverage: 8–12 inches over carcasses (no visible limbs or parts).
  • Avoid runoff by using dirt berms and heavy vegetation around outdoor piles.

Animal Unit Calculations:

• Animal Units determine if a farm requires a manure management plan:
  • Example thresholds: 30,000 turkeys under 7 lbs = under 500 animal units.
  • If combined with other livestock (e.g., hogs, cattle), farmers may exceed the threshold and trigger requirements.
• Separation rules:
  • Farms with >1,000 animal units must have at least 2,500 feet of separation.

Tools for Farmers:

• Interactive calculators available on the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF) website.
• Farmers can input numbers by species to check if they meet compliance thresholds.

Coalition Support:

• Free Assessments:
  • CSIF provides confidential farm evaluations to ensure compliance with DNR/EPA rules.
  • Focus on preventing runoff, proper manure storage, and addressing small issues like cracked concrete or spilled feed.
• Resources:
  • Guidance for livestock expansion and intergenerational farm transitions.

Discussion Topics:

Manure Sales & Liability:

• Farmers selling manure must ensure buyers handle it according to regulations.
• Responsibility shifts to the purchaser after the sale.

Smaller Farms:

• Farms under 500 animal units aren’t required to have manure management plans but are encouraged to adopt best practices.
• Soil testing, manure sampling, and targeted application reduce waste and environmental risks.

Future Trends:

• No immediate plans for mandatory manure management plans for small farms.
• Trend: Many small farmers voluntarily adopt principles to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Closing Thoughts:

• Farmers should stay proactive about changes in regulations to avoid surprises during inspections.
• The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers offers resources to help farmers navigate complex rules while ensuring environmental responsibility.
• “Manure is a valuable resource—use it wisely!”

Sponsors:

• Iowa Turkey Marketing Council Checkoff: Supporting education and resources for turkey farmers.
• For sponsorship inquiries, contact Sheila at the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Takeaways for Farmers:

• Stay Compliant: Regularly review manure management practices and stay updated on regulations.
• Use Resources: Leverage CSIF's free services for farm assessments and guidance.
• Plan Ahead: Conduct soil tests and maintain proper manure storage to avoid penalties and enhance farm productivity.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Podcast Episode Notes: The Turkey Talk Show - Human Vaccines and ISU Research

Hosts: Sheila & Gretta

Episode Overview: In this episode, Sheila and Gretta explore the role of human vaccines in the turkey farming industry, discussing why turkey farmers and their employees should get educated about vaccines for seasonal flu and COVID-19. They also feature insights from Iowa State University’s research farm, where groundbreaking studies on turkey farming are being conducted.

Key Topics:

Human Vaccines in the Turkey Industry:

• Why turkey farmers and workers should get vaccinated for seasonal flu and COVID.
• When and where vaccinations should be administered.
• Andrew from the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services discusses vaccination programs and funding.
• Vaccination recommendations for workers with underlying conditions and those at higher risk.
• The connection between HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) and human health.

Iowa State University Research Farm:

• Dr. Dawn Koltes and students Brooke and Zoie share their research and experiences at the ISU Research Farm, which was completed in 2022.
• Poults from Aviagen and Hybrid Turkeys are used in research, mirroring commercial farm conditions.
• The significance of ongoing research to improve turkey farming practices.

Fun Moment:

• Discussion on the recent ITF Board Retreat, where board members rated the meeting based on various factors, including hotel pillows. Sheila and Gretta emphasize that some things, like hotel amenities, are beyond their control—mirroring challenges in the turkey industry.

Call to Action:

• Get educated about available vaccines.
• Share research ideas with Sheila, Gretta, or Dr. Koltes.
• Don't let factors outside of your control affect your outlook on the industry.

Special Guests:

• Dr. Andrew Hennenfent – Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (discussing vaccination programs).
• Dr. Dawn Koltes, Brooke, and Zoie – Iowa State University (sharing insights from their turkey farming research).

Sponsors:

• Hybrid Turkeys
• Aviagen Turkeys

Resources:

• For more information on vaccines, contact Andrew Hennenfent at andrew.hennenfent@hhs.iowa.gov.

Closing: Thank you for listening to The Turkey Talk Show. Sheila and Gretta remind listeners to stay informed, communicate research ideas, and keep a positive attitude despite challenges. Join them next time for more insights and information from the turkey farming industry.

From our flock to yours – thanks for tuning in!

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

• Gretta and Sheila kick off the episode discussing their disbelief that it's already mid-January. They note that January is a busy time for planning in both associations and on farms.
• Sheila shares her love of planning, while Gretta talks about a major purchase—a 6-foot whiteboard on wheels, which has become a key organizational tool in their office.

Main Topic: Genetics in the Turkey Industry

• Paige Rohlf from Aviagen Turkeys leads the discussion on turkey genetics:
  • Genetics Process: Paige explains the process of selecting the best genetic lines for turkeys. The goal is to improve health, yield, and other key traits.
  • Multi-environment Selection: Aviagen is testing turkeys in diverse environments by renting farms in Virginia to evaluate their performance in challenging conditions.
  • Selection Criteria: Paige highlights three critical areas of focus:
    1. Multi-environment selection
    2. CT scans to measure breast meat yield
    3. Genomics for more precise breeding decisions
  • Commitment to Farmers: Paige emphasizes the importance of farmer feedback, the commitment to producing healthy, efficient turkeys, and the company's dedication to the turkey industry.
• Blair McCorriston from Hybrid Turkeys and Jason Yordy from TurkeyTrac join the conversation.
  • Blair on Technology and Selection: Blair discusses new advancements in technology, such as CT scanning, focusing on breast meat yield while maintaining other key traits. He also shares Hybrid's new approach to using commercial feedback in breeding decisions.
  • Jason on TurkeyTrac: Jason explains TurkeyTrac—a system combining hardware and software to collect farm data. Key features:
    • 72 metrics collected, with a flock score providing quick insights.
    • Data shared with vendors (like Hybrid) to inform decisions.
    • The system is designed to be easy to use, requiring only the addition of mortality data.
  • Partnerships: Blair praises Hybrid’s new partnership with TurkeyTrac, highlighting the value of the data collected and the ability to be proactive in decision-making.

Call to Action:

• Sheila encourages farmers to stay current with new technologies and explore what works best for their operations.
• She also invites listeners to share the Turkey Talk Show podcast and download the TurkeyConnect app for more industry updates.

Conclusion:

• Sheila and Gretta wrap up the episode, thanking listeners for tuning in.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

The main focus of the episode is a discussion on turkey vaccination with experts Dr. Eliza Ripplinger (BVS), Dr. Elizabeth Beilke (WLF), and farmer/board member Ben Slinger. The panel explains that vaccination programs should be tailored to each farm, emphasizing the importance of working with a veterinarian for yearly reviews. They address the complexities of vaccine choices, including live vs. killed vaccines, storage, and timing of administration. 

The episode stresses that not all vaccines are equal and encourages farmers to regularly consult with their veterinarians to ensure the right protocols are being followed for their unique farm needs.

Call to Action:

1. Review the vaccination cheatsheet/notes in the TurkeyConnect app under the Farmer's Toolbox.
2. Consult your vet to tailor your vaccination plan.
3. Share The Turkey Talk Show podcast and the TurkeyConnect app with others.

The episode concludes with Sheila and Gretta wishing listeners a happy new year, looking forward to future episodes, and thanking everyone for tuning in.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

• Gretta and Sheila open the episode by discussing the key events and milestones of the Iowa Turkey Federation (ITF) in 2024.

Gretta’s Trip to India:

• Gretta reflects on her international trip to India, discussing the importance of global outreach and the role international markets play in Iowa’s turkey industry.

2024 ITF Events Recap:

Area Meetings:

• Recap of ITF area meetings—providing valuable networking opportunities and updates for turkey producers across Iowa.

ITF Summer Meeting:

• Highlights from the Summer Meeting, which brought together industry stakeholders for discussions and updates on current issues facing turkey producers.

Iowa State Fair

ITF Winter Convention:

• The significance of the ITF Winter Convention, where industry professionals gather to discuss pressing issues, future goals, and developments in the turkey industry.

aMPV Vaccine Work:

• Sheila and Gretta discuss the ongoing efforts around the aMPV (Avian Mycoplasma Polyserositis) vaccine and its importance in improving turkey health and industry stability.

Brad Moline’s Reflections:

• Tanner speaks with Brad Moline, reflecting on his leadership during his tenure as ITF President.
  • 2024 ITF Winter Convention: A discussion on the impact of the Winter Convention.
  • John Moline’s Induction into the ITF Hall of Fame: Brad shares a heartfelt moment about his father, John Moline, being honored with an induction into the ITF Hall of Fame, celebrating his significant contributions to the turkey industry.
  • The Political Side of the ITF Presidency: Brad discusses the challenges and rewards of navigating the political landscape as ITF President, including advocating for the turkey industry and its stakeholders.

Josh Berg – Incoming ITF President (2025/2026):

• Sheila interviews Josh Berg, the incoming ITF President for the 2025-2026 term.
  • Josh’s Background in the Turkey Industry: Josh shares his journey in the turkey industry.
  • Vision for the Future: Josh outlines his goals for the next two years, with a strong focus on:
    • Financial Stability of ITF: Ensuring the federation’s financial health and long-term viability.
    • Promoting Turkey: Strengthening efforts to promote Iowa turkey both domestically and internationally, supporting demand and market access.

Closing Thoughts & Call to Action:

Call to Action:

• Listeners are encouraged to share the podcast with colleagues and industry partners to spread the word.
• Download the TurkeyConnect app to stay connected with ITF updates and turkey industry news.

Closing Wishes: Gretta and Sheila wish all listeners a safe and happy New Year and look forward to continued growth in the Iowa turkey industry in 2025.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Segment 1: Review of the ITF Winter Convention
Gretta and Sheila kick off the episode by discussing the Hap, Hap, Happiest ITF Winter Convention. They reflect on the energy and collaboration at the event, where leaders in the turkey industry came together to discuss key topics affecting the future of turkey production. 

Segment 2: Dr. Travis Schaal on Vaccine Development
Gretta and Sheila are joined by Dr. Travis Schaal of Boehringer-Ingelheim, who shares invaluable insights into the process of getting a vaccine from the lab to the field. Dr. Schaal breaks down the rigorous steps involved in vaccine development, from initial research to field trials and regulatory approvals. He also provides an update on what’s happening overseas, including key differences in vaccine strategies compared to the U.S. market.

Segment 3: Tanner’s Hallway Conversations with Dr. Steven Clark
Tanner catches up with Dr. Steven Clark of Huvepharma to discuss the most common questions he’s fielding in the hallways of the ITF Winter Convention. Dr. Clark provides valuable insights into the evolving concerns of industry professionals, shedding light on topics ranging from vaccine efficacy to production challenges. He also touches on what has changed since his last appearance on The Turkey Talk Show, providing a glimpse into the progress the industry has made and what still lies ahead.

Segment 4: Dr. Jeff Kaisand on Iowa’s Role in Vaccine Approval
In this final segment, Gretta sits down with Dr. Jeff Kaisand to discuss Iowa’s significant role in the vaccine approval process. Dr. Kaisand explains how the state’s infrastructure, research capabilities, and close ties to the agriculture industry make it a key player in vaccine trials and regulatory approvals. He also highlights the critical role of collaboration between state agencies, researchers, and private companies in ensuring that vaccines meet the necessary standards for safety and effectiveness.

Call to Action:
Share The Turkey Talk Show Podcast

Download the TurkeyConnect app via Apple App Store and Google Play

Sign up for the NTF E-Newsletter: membership@turkeyfed.org

Donate to the ITF PAC: ITF PAC Donation — Iowa Turkey Federation

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Dale Nellor, Senior Vice President Government Affairs, NTF, discusses the transition into new leadership, Republican control and NTF's role in educating these leaders. Dale also shares thoughts on the Secretary of Agriculture nominee and what is happening with the Farm Bill.

The shows wraps up with Sheila and Josie encouraging the listeners to engage and share thoughts, ideas and the podcast. 

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

Dr. Steven Clark and Brad Moline, ITF President, discuss the virus's impact, including increased mortality rates and reduced egg production, which has led to a national poult shortage. The spread of aMPV, first detected in late 2023, has dramatically affected turkey flocks, with mortality rates climbing significantly in some cases. The virus is also associated with secondary infections like E. coli and cholera.

The episode emphasizes the urgent need for both live and killed vaccines, though USDA approval is still pending for most options. The show urges listeners to download the TurkeyConnect app, share the podcast, and engage with the turkey farming community. Future episodes will include discussions with industry leaders like Jill Altringer and Dale Nellor.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.

The show features a mix of interviews with experts and guest speakers, including figures like Lara Durben and Teresa Sorenson, who will talk about the Midwest Poultry Federation PEAK Show. The podcast's mission is to create a platform where turkey farmers can get the latest updates and insights in a format that fits into their busy lives. New episodes drop every Tuesday at 6 am, and the hosts encourage listeners to engage with the show by suggesting topics, questions, or potential guests.

This episode is sponsored by Tyson Foods because they recognized the value of the podcast to the turkey farming community.

In addition to industry discussions, the podcast also features personal stories and experiences, like Sheila's recent encounter with a goose on a golf course, which she initially suspected might have been related to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) but turned out to be a case of blunt force trauma from a golf ball.

Listeners are encouraged to share the podcast with others, provide feedback, and stay engaged with upcoming episodes. In the future, the show will also feature guest experts on topics like turkey health and other industry updates.

Action items for listeners:

• Share the podcast with others.
• Send feedback or questions via text, email, or phone.
• Tune in for future episodes, including one with a turkey health expert and a post-election update.

The episode concludes with the hosts thanking listeners and reminding them to return next week for more insights.

Produced by the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Edited by Studio 205

Logo designed by Josie Kelly.

Segment jingles composed and produced by Joe Durben.