The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), in collaboration with industry partners, has officially launched its 2025 national study on poultry health and management practices. The effort aims to gather crucial, contemporary data specifically from small and mid-sized commercial poultry enterprises, a segment of the industry often underrepresented in broad national surveys.
The study, announced this week, seeks input to help federal agencies and veterinary organizations develop targeted support and biosecurity protocols that are practical and effective for smaller-scale operations.
Eligibility and Participation
The study is open to U.S. producers who manage flocks within the following commercial size ranges:
- Table Egg Layers: 300 to 74,999 birds
- Broilers: 300 to 199,999 birds
- Meat Turkeys: 300 to 59,999 birds
Producers who meet these criteria are strongly encouraged to participate to ensure their operational data and health challenges are accurately reflected in the national findings.
The USDA is offering flexible methods for participation to maximize response rates and convenience for producers:
- Paper Questionnaire
- Online Survey
- Phone Interview
Purpose and Impact
The primary goal of the 2025 study is to address the gap in national poultry health data, which often disproportionately reflects the management systems and disease challenges of the largest industrial farms.
Information collected will focus on key areas, including:
- Biosecurity measures and protocols
- Feed and water management practices
- Flock health record keeping
- Specific disease pressures and challenges faced by small enterprises
The data will be aggregated and analyzed by the USDA to inform future educational resources, disease mitigation strategies, and veterinary support programs designed to bolster the long-term economic stability and public health of the entire poultry sector.
Producers can learn more about the study and participation details by visiting the USDA’s resources or viewing the promotional video on YouTube above.
