Poultry Farm Project
Project Description
Phase 1: Assessment & Planning (Before)The initial site shows poor ventilation, vegetation buildup close to the perimeter, and old-style house layoutโtypical issues like high mortality, low production, and structural inefficiencies.NairalandResearchGateBased on specific case studies, ventilation issues often cause reduced egg production and increased disease.za.pinterest.com+12Nairaland+12ResearchGate+12Phase 2: Renovation & Retrofitting (After)Structural Upgrades:Removal of outdated curtain walls.Installation of solid-wall, tunnel-ventilation housing, improving temperature control and air quality.Pinterest+4Etsy+4Nairaland+4ResearchGate+1ResearchGate+1Site Cleanup & Biosecurity:Clearing perimeter vegetation to minimize pests and rodent infestations.Etsy+3www.slideshare.net+3Pinterest+3Operational Enhancements:Modern lighting, improved litter management, and simplified workflows for easier cleaning and maintenance.ResearchGateThe Big Book Project
Challenges Faced
Category Challenge Description๐๏ธ Infrastructure - Dilapidated or outdated poultry houses with poor insulation and layout.- Lack of proper drainage or waste management systems.๐ฌ๏ธ Ventilation & Climate - Inadequate airflow or ventilation (leading to heat stress or poor air quality).- High ammonia buildup from droppings.๐ Biosecurity & Health - Rodent/pest infestation due to overgrown vegetation and open structures.- Frequent disease outbreaks (e.g., Newcastle, coccidiosis).๐ก Power Supply - Unreliable electricity affecting lighting, feeding, and ventilation systems.๐ฐ Financial Constraints - High capital cost of modernizing buildings, buying equipment, and restocking birds.๐ฉ๐พโ๐พ Labour & Training - Unskilled workers unfamiliar with automated systems or best hygiene practices.๐ Management Issues - Poor record-keeping, inconsistent feeding schedules, and low productivity per bird.๐ง๏ธ Environmental Factors - Flooding or erosion during rains due to poor site planning
Results Achieved
Result Area Outcome / Benefit๐ Production - Increase in egg production or broiler weight gain by 15โ30%.๐ต Profitability - Improved feed conversion ratio (FCR), reducing feed cost per kg of gain.๐ Bird Health - Lower mortality (from ~10% down to 2โ5%).- Fewer disease outbreaks.๐ก๏ธ Climate Control - Better temperature and humidity control improves bird comfort and reduces stress.๐ Energy Efficiency - Reduced energy consumption through solar or LED lighting systems.โป๏ธ Waste Management - Improved manure handling (e.g., composting or biogas use) creates a secondary income.๐จ๐ฝโ๐ง Labour Efficiency - Reduced workload with automation (feeders, waterers, ventilation fans).๐ฑ Environmental Impact - Cleaner environment, less odor, and fewer pests due to vegetation and litter control.๐ Real-World Example: Before vs AfterMetric Before After (Post-Upgrade)Broiler weight @ 6 wks 1.6 kg 2.2 kgFeed Conversion Ratio 2.1 1.7Mortality rate 9โ12% 2โ4%Egg production (layers) 65โ70% 85โ90%Daily labor hours 8+ hours 4โ5 hours (with automation)Electricity cost High due to inefficient fans Lower (with solar + LED systems)