July - August 2021 Flipbook

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NORTH AMERICAN GAMEBIRD ASSOCIATION

JULY • AUGUST 2 0 2 1

SHARING
EXPERIENCES

WITH THE
GAMEBIRD
COMMUNITY

How Strong is
Your Biosecurity

Plan?

What Makes a
Good Gamebird

Feed?

And More!

NORTHAMERICANGAMEBIRD.COM [email protected]



JULY/AUGUST
2021

20

ADOBE STOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK; SOLEN FEYISSA 24 IN EVERY ISSUE

10 05 President’s Report
NAGA News is published every two months: January/February, 07 Executive Director’s Report
March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October and 09 Communications Director’s Report
November/December by the North American Gamebird Association. 10 Disease Report
© 2021, NORTH AMERICAN GAMEBIRD ASSOCIATION. ALL 12 Nutrition Notes
RIGHTS RESERVED. 14 Industry Insight

ARTICLES

20 How Strong is Your Biosecurity Plan?
24 On the ‘Gram
26 Las Vegas Convention Offers Business, Networking and Fun
28 John Mullin Scholarship

IN EVERY ISSUE

29 Classifieds
29 New Members
30 Calendar of Events

NAGA NEWS • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• 3

IN EVERY ISSUE
DIRECTORY

C O N TA C T
North American Gamebird Association
5195 Hampsted Vil. Ctr., PMB 242,
New Albany, OH 43054-8331

E-Mail:
[email protected]

Web: www.northamericangamebird.com

2021 OFFICERS 2021 NAGA BOARD COMMITTEES NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Brian Beavers – Kansas AUCTION COMMITTEE Bill MacFarlane, Chair
President and Treasurer Rick Kuhl, Jr., Chair Peg Ballou, Rick Kuhl, Tim Zindl,
Peg Ballou – Ohio Kim Zindl, Carrie Wierzba, Doug Anderson, Dan Barngrover
First Vice President Jeff Hughes, Mike Forsgren, Dan Barngrover,
Mike Martz – Pennsylvania Alli Hughes PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE
Second Vice President Brian Beavers, Chair
Tim Zindl – Wisconsin AUDIT COMMITTEE Stephanie Spika Hickey, Rick Kuhl Jr,
Immediate Past President Bernadette Gilliland, Chair Bernadette Gilliland, Mike Martz,
Rob Sexton – Ohio Sarah Pope, Andy Hairston, Mike Forsgren, Doug Anderson
Executive Director Sam Ballou, Mike Forsgren
Stephanie Spika Hickey – Virginia SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE
Communications Director CONVENTION COMMITTEE Jeff Hughes, Chair
Rick Kuhl, Chair Andy Hairston, Carrie Wierzba, Scott
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sarah Pope, Brian Beavers, Rob Sexton, Meyer, Doug Anderson
Chad Hughes, Mike Martz, Mike Forsgren
WITH STATE AND TERM ENDING FOUNDATION BOARD
Andy Hairston – Idaho (2022) CORONAVIRUS COMMITTEE Tim Zindl, Chair
Rick Kuhl – New Jersey (2022) Mike Martz, Chair Brian Beavers, Mike Martz, Jeff Hughes,
Scott Meyer – Minnesota (2022) Sam Ballou, Brian Beavers, Bill MacFarlane, Bill MacFarlane
Dr. Doug Anderson – Georgia (2023) Rob Sexton, Tim Zindl
Mike Forsgren – Minnesota (2023) S TA F F
Bernadette Gilliland – Pennsylvania (2023) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE EDITOR/ADVERTISING:
William MacFarlane – Wisconsin (2023) Brian Beavers, Chair Stephanie Spika Hickey
Sam Ballou – Ohio (2024) Tim Zindl, Peg Ballou, Andy Hairston, Mike [email protected]
Dan Barngrover – Kansas (2024) Martz, Bill MacFarlane, Rick Kuhl
Rick Kuhl Jr. – New Jersey (2024) PUBLISHER:
Sarah Pope – Wisconsin (2024) EXHIBITS COMMITTEE Rob Sexton
Rick Kuhl, Jr., Chair
NAGA MISSION STATEMENT Stephanie Spika Hickey, Rob Sexton, GRAPHIC DESIGN:
Sarah Pope, Dan Barngrover Jim Walsh
The North American Gamebird Asso-
ciation’s mission is to protect, promote HEALTH COMMITTEE PRINTING HOUSE:
and sustain a positive environment in Bill MacFarlane, Chair The Herald, Inc.
which gamebird producers and hunting Tim Zindl, Brian Beavers, Sam Ballou, Rob
preserve operators can grow their Sexton, Scott Meyer, Doug Anderson, Mike
businesses through monitoring and Martz, Troy Laudenslager
influencing of legislation, informing
and educating our members on current MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
industry trends and issues and promot- Peg Ballou, Chair
ing and sustaining our hunting heritage Bernadette Gilliland, Tim Zindl,
through increased public awareness. Rick Kuhl, Jr., Sarah Pope

4 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• NAGA NEWS

IN EVERY ISSUE
PRESIDENT’S REPORT

It’s a Busy Time of the Year
for Gamebird Producers
and Hunt Clubs

SUMMER IS FILLED WITH PLANNING FOR FALL AND WINTER

AS WELL BY BRIAN BEAVERS, NAGA PRESIDENT

It is officially summer. This means one thing for certain: it is a remark-
ably busy time of year for gamebird producers and hunt clubs, who are
busy preparing for the next hunting season. Egg gathering is coming
close to the end, brooding chicks is in full swing, steps are being taken
to ensure quality flight-conditioned birds are produced, predators are
on the attack and there is still planning to be done for the fall.

Broody hens are on the attack as we gath- opportunity to have a captive audience. I This combination has eliminated loss from
er the last couple weeks of this season’s eggs. use this time to quiz workers on farm pro- coyotes and foxes.
They are getting desperate to set on a clutch cedures and get their take on the different
of eggs. I am always eager for the end of the processes we utilize. It is nice to get their Summer is filled with planning for fall
egg gathering season as well. This time of prospective on how things are done on the and winter as well. Hunt clubs are a couple
year, I am checking figures and ensuring we farm and discuss possible ways to make the of months from their first gamebird hunt
carry forward enough eggs for the last egg workflow process as efficient as possible. It of the season. Mature bird deliveries will
settings of the season. It is always a balanc- is also a golden opportunity to get to know coincide. When people outside of the indus-
ing act our employees get tired of me talking each employee a little better. try ask when your downtime is, all of us can
about. They know the nuances of minimiz- honestly respond, “What down time?” I do
ing heat exposure of the eggs. I am constant- Predator control is a key area of focus on make plans to attend NAGA Convention
ly reminding them the damage temperature the farm during the early summer. Mow- annually. Even though it, too, occurs during
changes can have on the hatchability. I look ing around all pens is just the first step in a busy time, it is an investment of time well-
forward to the last setting as I know they our predator control protocol. It not only spent learning from others in the industry
look forward to the day we quit gathering eliminates hiding places for varmints, but and networking. I encourage each of you
eggs for the season. That one last day of it allows a clear view for daily inspection to plan now to attend. The 2022 North
moving the breeder flock to the re-condi- of any digging that might allow unwanted American Gamebird Association Education-
tioning flight pens is one of excitement and a critters to enter our pens. It also is necessary al Conference and Convention will be held
just end to over 100 days of gathering eggs. in the Midwest to have some type of control at the Bally’s Las Vegas Hotel and Casino
in place for coyote and fox attacks. We line on January 31 through February 2, 2022 in
Summer requires extra attention to each pen with two-foot-high metal. We Las Vegas, Nevada. Additional details can
brooder houses. Hot days require increased recently had to add an electric fence wire be found at www.NorthAmericanGamebird.
venting of the houses to maintain an ideal approximately eight inches above the top of com/annual-conference/ with links to the
temperature for the chicks, while cooler the tin around the outside perimeter of our agenda and online registration.
evenings still require some vent closure on pens. This was the best strategic location
young chicks. This requires a nightly and to zap canine predators as they look over In closing I offer this prayer: “Dear
early morning patrol of all brooder houses. the metal to plan their attack. We experi- Heavenly Father, thank you for the many
I enjoy this task as it is a time of solitude enced coyotes scaling the chicken wire and blessings you bestow upon us. Thank you
to put eyes on the entire farm. Although chewing through the top nets to get into for the magnificent renewable resource of
employees can monitor and adjust things the pens, where they would then kill for fun. gamebirds. Grant us the stamina to do your
throughout the day, personally checking will. In Jesus name, Amen.”
each set of chicks twice daily is essential to
my peace of mind, knowing all is well before “WHEN PEOPLE OUTSIDE OF THE INDUSTRY
turning in for the night.
ASK WHEN YOUR DOWNTIME IS, ALL OF US
Applying anti-pecking devices is one of
my favorite activities on the farm. This is CAN HONESTLY RESPOND, “WHAT DOWN TIME?”
the one time all our workers are gathered to
focus on one activity. I look forward to the

NAGA NEWS • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• 5

IN EVERY ISSUE
SPONSORS

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• Pro-Rated delivery charges for started & mature birds SPONSOR MEMBERS
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Ringneck Ranch, Inc.
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RTS Strategies
Sharon Pheasant Farm
Show-Me-Birds Hunting Resort, LLC
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Jim Zindl

FEEDERS SPECS NESTS CRATES

IN EVERY ISSUE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Punching Above Our Weight

WE COULD NOT BE EFFECTIVE WITHOUT OUR DEDICATED

BOARD OF DIRECTORS BY ROB SEXTON, NAGA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

There is a term in boxing for a fighter that is powerful enough to hold his
own against fighters in higher weight classes. It’s called “punching above
your weight.” In my career, I have served a variety of non-profit organi-
zations in the hunting, shooting sports and agricultural industries. What
they all have in common is that they are all small or modest sized organi-
zations that punch above their weight.

Large organizations like the National Rifle changes to the USDA’s indemnity policy for apparent. Such is the case with the national
Association (NRA), American Farm Bureau low pathogenic avian influenza. We don’t ammunition shortage. After hearing feed-
Federation (AFBF) or the Humane Society of have the large megaphone that big poultry back from several NAGA members, Brian
the United States (HSUS) have the advan- organizations, like the broiler chicken and created a special committee to guide any
tage of lots of cash with which to exert their turkey industries, have. But what we do strategy NAGA could use to help hunting
influence and lots of members to activate have is the ability to move quickly. preserves. The committee is chaired by
on behalf of their stated missions. However, NAGA 2nd Vice President, Mike Martz. Al-
their size can also be a disadvantage. Within a matter of weeks, we had or- though the committee is not capable of cre-
ganized a trip to D.C. to meet with the top ating more ammunition, it has people in our
Large organizations often carry a deci- members of Congress who influenced USDA industry communicating and has already
sion-making bureaucracy that makes it slower policy. We even met with the Speaker of the proven helpful to meet some ammunition
to react, and many times slow to even decide U.S. House of Representatives, Paul Ryan needs on a more regional basis.
whether to react at all. The old saying about (R-WI). Each meeting featured our presi-
too many cooks in the kitchen comes to mind dent (Tim Zindl at the time) and a promi- The crisis with shipping delays involving
here. Early in my career, I was engaged in a nent NAGA member from the district of the the U.S. Postal Service has required a differ-
negotiation with a large organization of this congressman we visited. We filled three days ent approach, so far. NAGA is playing a sup-
type and was informed that they can only with visits like this. To multiply our reach, we porting role for our partners with the Bird
change their position on something once per joined forces with another smaller organiza- Shippers of America, providing advice based
year when they conduct their annual meet- tion with the same views we shared. Together on our strategy to address the indemnity
ings. Another organization of this size could we were in and out of D.C. in a quick strike. issue in 2018. The nation’s largest hatcheries
only take a position after its 27-member board Within a matter of weeks, we had secured the have caught the attention of USPS, which
of directors signed off on it. So, while these assurances our industry badly needed. seems to be attempting to alleviate the de-
types of giants can really make a tremendous lays. NAGA members John Metzer and Bill
amount of noise, and can exert a lot of influ- That project came together about as good MacFarlane also serve on the Bird Shipper’s
ence, they can also be slower in a crisis. as it could be drawn up on paper. But the of America’s board of directors, and I have
underpinning for that success was NAGA’s been in frequent contact with the chairman
Smaller organizations like NAGA don’t ability to change direction quickly in the of their board, Greg Privett, to make sure
have that luxury. While a large organization face of a challenge. In many cases, these NAGA is providing all of the assistance it can.
can take a while to “turn the barge” so to things come up quickly and require fast de-
speak, they have a lot of firepower when they cision making. The board provides direction In each of these cases, NAGA has reacted
do make a decision to use it. The three organi- to the president and the executive director, quickly in moving our resources to the front
zations I referenced above (NRA, AFBF and and then allows the organization to quickly lines. Results have been varied. For instance,
HSUS) can make the phones in a Congress- take the most effective steps. the ammunition shortage continues due to
man’s office ring non-stop. Smaller organi- factors outside of our control. Nevertheless,
zation don’t have that kind of ammunition. During his term at the helm, current NAGA has been able to provide a response
But what they lack in size and bulk, they can president Brian Beavers has addressed to try to address the needs of our members.
make up for with being decisive, efficient with many fast-developing situations by assem- We’ve been able to punch above our weight,
resources and reacting quickly to a crisis. bling a special committee to do the leg work. and a lot of the credit for that ability lies with-
Over the last year, he has made frequent use in our all-volunteer board of directors, which
Bringing a quick burst of energy to a of this strategy. When we heard that Sharon is active, and often gets their hands dirty when
challenge can often provide the appear- Heinemann was preparing to close Game- needed. Being a member of the NAGA Board
ance of a much larger organization to those bird Central, Brian appointed a committee, of Directors is an honor, of course. But it also
we seek to influence. Such was the case in chaired by board member Mike Forsgren, carries with it a great deal of work and respon-
2018, when NAGA coordinated a trip for a to acquire the website and coordinate the sibility. Simply put, we could not be effective
delegation of our members to Washington, transition to NAGA. without this dedicated group of people.
D.C. to express our concerns about potential
Sometimes, solutions are not readily

NAGA NEWS • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• 7

IN EVERY ISSUE
NAGA CONSERVATION PARTNERS & ALLIES

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8 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• NAGA NEWS

IN EVERY ISSUE
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Make Use of NAGA’s
Classified Ads

NAGA GAMEBIRD CENTRAL ALLOWS FOR ONLINE CLASSIFIED
ADS, WHILE NAGA NEWS FEATURES PRINTED CLASSIFIED ADS

BY STEPHANIE SPIKA HICKEY, NAGA COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

First of all, I want to thank you for your patience over the past
few months while we have navigated the inconsistencies of the
USPS with regards to NAGA News arriving in your mailbox when
it should. Some of you are now receiving this magazine at the start
of the month, as intended. Unfortunately, others aren’t receiving
the magazine until the second half of the month, which I’m still
working to remedy. I can assure you that there is an ongoing ef-
fort to streamline the delivery timeline of NAGA News with USPS.
Hopefully as our country begins to return to “normal”, so will mail
schedules.

I’m sure many of you, like myself, enjoy classifieds. Additional classified ads can Pure French Red Leg
the tangible, hard copy of the magazine. be purchased for $25 for 50 words or less,
However, I hope you have taken the time plus $.50 per additional word. Your free
to check out our website recently. In classified ad(s) is a great perk of NAGA
addition to the ability to join or renew membership, yet most NAGA members
your membership and read about NAGA don’t take advantage of it. To place an ad,
and related topics, you can view each issue email me at stephanie@northamerican-
of NAGA News online. This is a great re- gamebird.com.
source to read prior issues of the magazine
and refer back to them in the future. Enjoy this issue of NAGA News, and as
always, I welcome your feedback!
Another great feature on our website
is the all-new NAGA Gamebird Central, FIGHTING THE AMMO SHORTAGE
which is the place to go for online classified
ads in the gamebird industry. This portion The struggle to find available ammunition continues to concern hunting preserves. NAGA’s
of our website allows NAGA members to Special Committee on the Ammo Shortage has some tips for hunt clubs. First, plan ahead
create a classified ad to sell everything from to keep a stock. Some of the clubs who have not been hurt by the shortage have previously
chicks to mature birds to equipment and bought 12-18 months’ worth of ammunition. Second, many ammo companies and distribu-
supplies. Members can also post ads for tors will not accept small orders. Some have required orders as big as 500 to 2,000 flats to
gamebirds wanted. For $25, your online accept an order. To combat this problem, hunting preserves in several states are banding
ad will be featured on NAGA Gamebird together to make larger purchases. This solution requires adequate storage, and someone
Central for 30 days. NAGA members, and to function as the point person between the supplier and the group of hunt clubs. By the
non-members, can visit our website to view time this issue of NAGA News arrives, clay bird season will be more than half over. But
all ads. That’s correct – you have to be a with the long bird hunting season just around the corner, now is the time to find clubs to
NAGA member to place an ad, but you don’t partner with to increase your buying power. Finally, beggars can’t be choosers. Many NAGA
have to be a NAGA member to view the ads. hunting preserves have been able to fund ammunition, but not always to the specifications
they are used to. In this environment, many have conceded that they may have to be willing
To view NAGA Gamebird Central, or to accept #7.5 shot instead of #5 or #6, for example. The bottom line is that clubs may not
to place an ad, visit www.northamerican- get a second opportunity if they pass on a less desirable alternative. The only thing worse
gamebird.com/naga-gamebird-central. than having to use a less preferable ammunition would be running out, of course. These tips
won’t solve this crisis, but they may help clubs worried about running short.
Speaking of classified ads, have you
used your free NAGA News classified ad
this year? NAGA Basic members receive
one free classified ad per membership year,
to run in NAGA News. Business, Sponsor
and Diamond members receive two free

NAGA NEWS • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021 • 9

IN EVERY ISSUE
DISEASE REPORT

Avian Pox

ONE OF THE OLDEST KNOWN INFECTIOUS AVIAN DISEASES

BY F. DUSTAN CLARK, DVM, PHD, DIPLOMATE ACPV, EXTENSION POULTRY HEALTH VETERINARIAN,
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS SYSTEM DIVISION OF AGRICULTURE, COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE

The viral disease known as Avian Pox or Fowl Pox is caused by an Avipox virus and is one of the oldest
known infectious avian diseases being reported in birds as early as the 17th century. The virus is capable
of causing disease in numerous wild and domestic avian species such as songbirds, doves, raptors, pi-
geons, chickens, pheasants, quail, etc. It is thought that all avian species are susceptible. There are many
different avian pox virus strains and some are capable of infecting multiple bird species, other strains are
species specific. Infected birds typically have poor growth, weight loss, decreased water consumption and
decreased egg production - although death can result in severely affected birds.

AVIAN POX FORMS growths and later dry scabs. masses or growths that can form of pox will usually recover
Gamebirds often have only a become severe enough to inter- in one to four weeks. Since the
This viral disease occurs in two few lesions on the face, legs, feet fere with eating, drinking and disease can be slow spreading,
forms: the skin form (dry pox) and toes. The lesions on the feet breathing. Mortality is variable it may take several weeks to
and diphtheritic (wet) form. and toes may exhibit bleeding depending on the form seen months for an outbreak to move
The most common form seen and slow healing as birds peck in the flock. Wet pox typically through a flock.
is the skin (dry) form where at them. Quail may loss severely causes a higher mortality as se-
lesions are present on areas of affected toes. In the diphtheritic verely affected birds will usually TRANSMISSION
the face, eyelids, comb, wattles, (wet) form of pox, the lesions die. It is possible to have both The Avian Pox virus spreads
cere, base of the beak, body, are present on the mucous forms of the disease in a flock slowly in a flock by a number
legs and feet with few to no membranes of the oral cavity, and occasionally a single bird of methods. The disease can
feathers. The lesions start as larynx and trachea. These le- can have both forms simultane- be spread by direct contact
small blisters which progress sions are white to yellow cheesy ously. Birds exhibiting the dry with infected birds, dried scabs
to yellow nodules and wart-like from recovering birds, contact
with contaminated perches,
VARIOUS STAGES OF LESIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE SKIN (DRY) FORM OF AVIAN POX ON THE COMB, FACE, feeders, waterers, cages, shoes
WATTLES, CERE, EYELIDS AND EAR LOBES OF A CHICKEN. and clothing of visitors and by
several species of mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are capable of
harboring the virus for more
than a month after feeding on
an infected bird. The mosquito
infects other birds as it feeds
on a susceptible bird, spread-
ing the disease in a flock or
to another flock. Other biting
insects such as midges, fleas
and flies could possibly act as
mechanical vectors, although
mosquitoes are the most
common vector. The pox virus
is highly resistant in the dried
scabs and is present in large
amounts in the scabs. It may be
easily carried from one flock to
another on scab-contaminat-
ed objects. The virus can also
enter a bird’s body through
a scratch or abrasion, and a

10 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021 • NAGA NEWS

higher infection rate often is ommended directions on the Dr. Fred Dustan Clark is the Veterinary Diagnostic laborato-
seen in overcrowded flocks. All vaccine as to age for vaccina- Extension Poultry Health ry in 1988.
ages of birds are susceptible to tion, care and haling of the vac- Veterinarian and Associate
avian pox, and the disease can cine, route of administration Center Director for Poultry Dr. Clark joined the Center of
occur at any time of the year. and proper disposal of unused Extension in the Center of Excellence for Poultry Science at
Commonly, the disease is seen vaccine. It is also important to Excellence for Poultry Science the University of Arkansas as the
in the spring, summer and fall follow up in seven to days (or at the University of Arkansas Extension Poultry Health Veter-
in most temperate climates. the vaccine recommended time in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He inarian in 1994. His Extension
Birds that have recovered com- interval) and examine birds for grew up in Denison, Texas and programs focus on Biosecurity
pletely do not remain carriers a “vaccination take”. This is attended veterinary school at and Disease Recognition, Diagno-
of the virus. an area of scab formation and Texas A&M University. He has sis and Treatment in commercial
swelling at the site of vaccine DVM, MS and PhD degrees and small poultry flocks. He has
There is no evidence to sug- administration. It is important from Texas A&M University. diplomate status with the Ameri-
gest that the Avipox virus can to have most birds displaying Dr Clark has practiced clinical can College of Poultry Veterinar-
affect humans. “Chicken Pox” in a vaccination take to ensure veterinary medicine in Texas, ians, and in 2017 was awarded
people is caused by a different that a satisfactory vaccination Oklahoma, Arkansas, Califor- the Poultry Science Association
virus than the Avipox that caus- of the flock has occurred. Vac- nia, and Utah. He served in an Phibro Extension award.
es fowl pox in birds. cination of a bird or recovery Avian Medicine residency at
of a bird from pox typically the University of California at Dr. Clark has served on
T R E AT M E N T confers a lifelong immunity to Davis, California in 1981. Dr. national and state Avian
the disease. If an outbreak of Clark returned to Texas to serve Influenza task forces coordinat-
AND CONTROL pox occurs in a flock it may be on the veterinary faculty at ing educational outreach. He
There is currently no satisfac- beneficial to vaccinate birds Texas A&M University College conducts workshops, seminars,
tory treatment for avian pox. during the outbreak to limit of Veterinary Medicine in 1982. short courses and farm visits for
It is best to prevent the disease spread of the disease in the He moved from Texas to Utah to poultry integrators, growers,
in a flock by using vaccination, flock since the disease is typi- serve as the director of the Utah county agents, 4H youth, USDA/
biosecurity and mosquito con- cally slow spreading. State University Provo Branch APHIS/VS veterinarians and
trol. When vaccinating birds, it animal health technicians, and
is important to follow the rec- small flock owners.

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IN EVERY ISSUE
NUTRITION NOTES

What Makes a Good Gamebird Feed?

TO ACHIEVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE FROM YOUR BIRDS, YOU NEED TO UNDERSTAND THEIR

NUTRIENT NEEDS BY DANIEL SEITZ, SENIOR FORMULATIONS SPECIALIST AT ARCHER DANIELS MIDLAND

In the past, gamebird nutrition was modeled after research performed on turkeys and broiler chickens.
However, in recent years, more research has been conducted on gamebirds to help us better understand
their nutritional needs. Universities have built research facilities dedicated to gamebirds to help
producers raise birds as efficiently as possible. While published research is still limited, we are
increasing our knowledge of gamebirds faster than ever before.

always be followed and com- polysaccharide (NSP) enzymes
bined with proper management allow gamebirds to better utilize
though all life stages. An ideal fibrous feed ingredients by
starter feed will be high protein improved digestibility of sugars
(28%) with low crude fat (2.5%) from NSPs, meaning better en-
and include multiple protein ergy utilization from the ration.
sources to ensure digestibility. Increased energy utilization
A starter feed can be fed to birds allows more energy to be-
up to six to eight weeks in age. come available for production
We know based on research per- purposes. Direct-fed microbials
formed on broiler chickens that help maintain balance in the gut
it is nearly impossible for a bird leading to better feed efficiency.
to recover from a poor starter
phase diet and will never reach Given the current market,
its full performance potential. getting the most out of your feed
is extremely vital for producer
A grower feed with a slightly profits. Other additives that can
lower protein (24%) and higher be included are yeast products,
fat level (3.5%) should be fed natural vitamin E, complexed
until roughly 10 weeks old be- zinc and phytase. Natural
fore reducing the protein again vitamin E has been shown to
(20%) and fat (3%) in a devel- be more bioavailable when
oper ration. This can be fed compared to synthetic vitamin
until the birds are flight ready. E and can protect tissue from
Birds around 15 to 20 weeks old oxidative damage while enhanc-
can be put on a maintenance ing immune system function.
ration of 16-20% protein and
So, what does a good game- needs and how to meet them. 2% fat to maintain the body
bird feed consist of? First, we Phase feeding has been an condition score that is desired
must establish the goal: why are by the producer. The industry
you raising gamebirds? Is it for industry standard for quite some is trending to more phases such
meat and eggs, conservation, time. Regardless of phase, all as pre-starter and multiple
taxidermy or the most common gamebird feeds have a few things grower and developer phases
reason, hunting? For this article in common, such as multiple with specialized rations for
we will assume the goal is to protein sources, and they are each. This is already the case in
raise birds for hunting purposes. highly fortified with vitamins broiler chicken production. So,
Avid hunters will tell you the and minerals. It’s the slight al- it may only be a matter of time
best birds to hunt are the quick- terations to the rations based on before this becomes standard
est to flight and the fastest in the the bird’s age that really impact practice throughout game bird
air. To achieve the best perfor- performance characteristics. production.
mance from your birds, you need A solid phase feeding program,
to understand their nutrient such as the Flight Ready™ pro- A number of feed additives
gram offered from ADM, should are available on the market that
can help your birds reach their
peak performance. Non-starch

12 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021 • NAGA NEWS

Zinc is important for immunity, “SO, WHAT DOES A GOOD GAME
reproduction, skin and claw BIRD FEED CONSIST OF? FIRST, WE
integrity, muscle development MUST ESTABLISH THE GOAL: WHY
and egg shell quality, while com- ARE YOU RAISING GAMEBIRDS?”
plexed zinc is more available
than zinc oxide or sulfate. adding anything to your feeds. learn to fly and forage before Daniel Seitz grew up in North-
It’s important to note that being released for the hunt. To east Kansas and attended
Phytase is one of the most keep the birds as wild as possi- Kansas State University, where
researched feed additives in the even the best rations combined ble, human interaction should he graduated with a Bachelors
poultry industry; super-dosing with the best genetics won’t be limited. Nothing is more in Agriculture Science and
is almost common practice. overcome poor management frustrating than releasing birds completed his Masters in Animal
Phytase increases phosphorus practices. Gamebirds should who aren’t scared of humans Nutrition. Seitz currently lives
utilization by liberating phy- be barn raised for the first and instead of flying away, they in Quincy, Illinois with his wife
tate-bound phosphorus from few weeks of life before being stare at the hunter waiting for Lindsay and their two dogs,
plant-based ingredients in the released into large flight pens their next meal. Parker and Yogi.
feed. This reduces the amount where they can finish growing,
of supplemental phosphorus
added to the feed and reduces
the excretion of phosphorus
back into the environment.

These are just a few of a wide
array of possible feed additives
that can be utilized. It’s best to
consult your nutritionist before

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NAGA NEWS • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021 • 13

IN EVERY ISSUE
INDUSTRY INSIGHT

What We’ve Learned

SHARING OUR EXPERIENCE WITH THE GAMEBIRD COMMUNITY
BY CHUCK PURGASON, OZARK WINGS HUNTING PRESERVE AND HATCHERY

I used to have a poster hanging in my office of John Wayne. Underneath the picture were the words, “Life is
tough. It is really tough if you’re stupid.” As everyone knows, raising birds and running a hunting preserve is
tough and I know I have done my share of doing stupid things. The only thing one can do is to learn and try not
to make the same mistake again. I also think it is important for people, like myself, to help others not make the
same mistakes in order to promote the gamebird hunting industry into a thriving and profitable business.

Ozark Wings Hunting Preserve and the years, we have moved from one hunt at a area. The top two issues were pen space
Hatchery was started in 2001. At the time, time until now, when we are able to hunt six requirements and disease control. Starting
my wife Janet and I operated a cow/calf groups in the morning and six groups in the out, because of funding, barn space and our
operation. We were also running an awards afternoon. We are open seven days a week, hunting numbers, we used the assembly
company that we started in 1980 that sold beginning on October 1 each year until the line method. The first barn that was built on
trophies and plaques in 48 states. Our last Sunday in March. We also provide fully the farm was 48’x80’. This barn contained
awards company specialized in field trials guided or hunt with your own dog hunts, as a 20’x20’ hatchery room and six 10’x20’
for raccoon, fox and beagle, as well as 3-D well as Continental pheasant shoots. brooder rooms for day-old chicks. On the
archery. We also sold embroidered clothing other side of the barn were four 20’x20’
to many hunt clubs across America. I do have to buy a few birds occasionally, grow-out rooms, with outside flight pens
but we try to raise all of our birds here for attached. This barn served well for several
I started raising a few thousand bobwhite a variety of reasons. The main reason is years and we still use this facility now for
quail in an old milk barn as a hobby. I sold to assure that we have the highest quality, hatching all of our chicks, but the brooder
them to some field trials and a local hunting well-feathered and properly conditioned rooms are now used for only chukar.
preserve. I later converted an old field into a flight bird. We also prefer a 12-ounce bob-
hunting area and started releasing birds and white to typically smaller ones. We want a As our business grew, it required us to
booking hunts. As they say, the rest is history. bird raised on the ground to ensure proper continue to build facilities to help increase
feathering and feather conditioning. production as well as provide better disease
We currently raise around 14,000 control methods. As with most hatcheries,
pheasants, 12,000 chukar and over 20,000 Early on, one of the major challenges in during the first few years, disease issues
bobwhite quail a year. Almost all our birds our business operation was trying to raise were not a big problem. But as the number
are hunted here at our preserve. Throughout pheasant, chukar and bobwhites in the same

14 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021 • NAGA NEWS

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our long-range plan, we knew we had to 217-231-2239 or [email protected]
separate the quail, chukar and pheasants
from each other to try to control some of the LIVE Protection Against Night
problems we were having. We have learned Time Predator Animals
much from the chicken industry that works DELIVERY
toward an all-in and all-out philosophy and When the sun goes
applied that to our operation. GUARANTEED down, Nite•Guard
begins to flash.
Our next barn was a 20’x120’ brooder barn Experts For Ringneck Pheasant & The “flash of light”
for pheasants. We still hatch the pheasants in Chukar Partridge Chicks & Eggs is sensed as an eye
our old hatchery but now are able to brood the and becomes a threat
pheasants in six 20’x20’ brooder rooms. This to the most ferocious
allows us to keep the pheasants isolated from night animals.
the other birds. We then began the process of
designing and building a quail brooder barn PO Box 274 •Princeton, MN 55371
that would enable us to raise quail in the most
successful and labor-free manner possible. oakwoodgamefarm.com 800.328.6647 niteguard.com

The first thing we did was gather as much
information as we could about what other
successful quail breeders were doing. I talk-
ed with people including Jeff Maness from
Shady Knoll Gamebirds in North Carolina
and visited Steve and Sharon Heinemann’s
facility at Prairie Hill Gamebirds in Kansas.
This, combined with my 18 years of mistakes
and costly lessons, enabled me to put togeth-
er my building project.

The goal was to produce around 8,000
to 10,000 chicks per hatch. We settled on
a 40’x90’ building consisting of a 40’x40’
brooder room with an additional 40’x40’
grow-out room. This left a 10’x40’ equipment
room on one end to be a combination work,
storage and shower area. When visiting with
Steve Heinemann, I had asked him if there
was one thing he would change about his
brooder facility. He said that he would put in
heated concrete floors. In our area, heated
floors are a relatively new concept, but we
were able to find a couple of contractors in
our area that offered the service. Another
goal was to build the facility away from all
of the others to a more isolated location. In
researching diseases in quail, some viruses
are thought to travel up to 400 feet through
the air. So, we needed to locate the barn as far
away from the other gamebirds as possible.
Another requirement was metal sides to en-
sure good cleaning and disinfecting. As good
help is hard to find, yet another goal was to
build a facility that would save time and be as
labor-free as possible.

With all of these ideas and requirements

NAGA NEWS • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021 • 15

IN EVERY ISSUE
INDUSTRY INSIGHT

HEATING SYSTEM can heat about 300 feet of floor space and

then must go back to the boiler, so the floor

in mind, we began construction in the spring water lines are set up in zones to ensure

of 2018. As with all construction, getting uniform heating. Our floor at 40’x40’ has

a good foundation was important. Extra four heating zones in the middle. We did not

attention was needed to ensure the floor heat the outer three feet of the slab because

concrete would be extra-packed to keep the my theory was that if chicks do get chilled,

floor from settling. Once the forms were up, this would avoid chicks piling in the corners.

two inches of insulation was placed on the I don’t know if that theory is correct, but so

ground and then the rebar was put in and the far we have not had any corner issues as long

water lines were attached around this rebar. as we use a round chick barrier the first ten

In heating concrete floors, a novice such as days.

myself would think a single line would run It is very important to insulate the barn

throughout the concrete from the boiler, as well as possible to keep condensation

through the floor and back, but that is not from being a problem, especially during win-

the case. In a floor system with one line, the ter brooding. We used spray foam insulation

water would cool and you would not get uni- throughout the building. The feed system

form heating across the floor. One water line is an automatic system that we purchased

from QC Supply and installed ourselves. We

have had good service from QC Supply on

our barn feeding systems. The lighting in

the room is dimmable. The LED lights were

purchased from Jeff May at Clearview Sup-

ply. He helped in setting up the right com-

bination on light color that would keep the

chicks from becoming overly aggressive. It is

important to use a dimmable light system to

control the activity of the chicks. The bright-

er the lights, the more active the chicks are.

The dimmer the lights, the calmer the chicks

are. We are currently working with our local

electrician to allow us to remotely brighten

and dim the lights using our iPad or smart

phone.

Good ventilation is extremely import-

ant so we have three 16x16 wall units that

are set up on a thermostat regulator. The

regulators are temperature controlled and

kick on when the barn reaches certain tem-

peratures. Two fans are in the first brooder

room and another is located in the grow-out

room. When the barn reaches a certain

temperature, the fan kicks on at variable

Pheasant • Quail • Chukar speeds to move the warm air out and keep
EGGS • CHICKS • STARTER • FLIGHT READY the temperature and humidity at the proper
Delivery Available levels. Since the heat comes up from the
floor and is constant, we are able to keep

Field Trials • Hunt Tests • Hunt Preserves • Propagation • Restocking fresh air moving through the building for

A ID • WA You are guaranteed to get the birds good air quality.
Our plan of operation begins with getting
Andy Hairston when you buy from folks that hunt the same birds.
the barn ready for chicks. This includes a to-
POB 28 We operate hunting clubs in Washington and Idaho. tal cleaning and two to three weeks of down
44854 Little Canyon Road time between flocks. We use the standard
Peck, Idaho 83545 References Available / Prices on Request large flake pine shavings for floor covering
208.486.6235 NPIP #46 / Tested and Clean

www.littlecanyonshooting.com
[email protected]

LITTLE CANYON SHOOTING and then turn the floor heat on. It usually
PRODUCING UPLAND GAMEBIRDS FOR THE NORTHWEST takes about five days for the floor to reach 95
degrees. We use the automatic waters with

16 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021 • NAGA NEWS

USING OLD POLITICAL SIGNS TO CONTAIN

CHICKS IN FRONT OF FEED AND WATER

the spill cups attached to the bottoms. We
use at least 12 feed pans to make sure day-
old chicks are in front of feed at all times.
We also put the green Grow Gel down in the
feed trays for the first day or two. It is very
important to make sure feed and water are
in front of the chicks at all times to decrease
chick die-off on the third and fourth day. We
also put down another twelve 6x12” feeders.
The trays are picked up after a week and the
small feeders are picked up after two weeks.

We use a ring for the first ten days to
ensure the chicks are contained in front of
feed and water and also to keep them from
going to the corners of the barn. We make
use of old corrugated plastic political signs
by cutting them in half and using them for
this purpose. (It is nice to find something a
politician can actually do to be of service.)
Although the floor is heated, we do put
down four electric brooders for a quick shot
of heat if the chicks get chilled. The elec-
tric brooders are removed after about ten
days. The chicks could get by without these
brooders, but it seems to work well and
makes me feel more comfortable.

As I had stated earlier, the main rea-
son to build a quail brooder facility was to
minimize disease issues. To try to reach this
goal, the barn has one door entrance into the
barn. This door opens into a 10’x10’ shower
room. The quail barn is the first barn I go to
in the morning. I make sure my clothes are
clean and fresh when I leave home and then
enter the shower room, shower and go into
the other 10’x30’ supply room and put on
sterilized coveralls and booties before I en-
ter the chick room. The shower room has a
3’x4’ window looking into the brooder room,
so some days I just look through the window
to see if there are any problems.

We also run a BLINK camera system
in the barn so I can actually look in using
my phone or iPad and listen to the chicks
throughout the day to make sure everything
is running smoothly. This is great because it
keeps you physically out of the barn, but is
easy to see what is going on inside. Most im-
portantly, it keeps transmission of disease to
a minimum. It is very reassuring to be able to
look in on the chicks right before going to bed.

The chicks are brooded in the first room
until they reach three to four weeks of age.
We then open the second 40’x40’ to double

IN EVERY ISSUE
INDUSTRY INSIGHT

the floor space and give the chicks more room the cost to operate. The system is an electric SUPPLY ROOM
to grow. The ventilation fan will pull warm boiler where water is heated and circulated
air through the barn and keeps the grow-out throughout the room. Our highest monthly out barn, which consists of a 30’x200’ barn
room at a comfortable temperature. The electric bill all year was around $80 in this with four 50’x150’ flight pens. This allows
floor heat is run by thermostat and we lower barn. That’s a huge savings when compared us to keep the birds outside during good
the floor heat five degrees each week. One of to my other brooder barns that run around weather but inside during periods of rain or
the greatest advantages of the heated floor $250 per month with electric brooders. bad weather. Once our flight pens are full,
system is that the heat is right underfoot of our last hatch of birds will stay in the quail
the chicks. Another plus is the litter stays The first few flocks of birds at seven to brooder barn with two 50’x150’ flight pens
dry, which in itself can keep diseases to a eight weeks of age are moved out to our attached. This enables us to brood our last
minimum. Surprisingly, another big plus was main farm located about a mile from the batch of chicks during cold weather all the
brooder barn and placed in our quail grow- way up to flight-ready at 16 weeks.

The door in the brooder room to the flight
pen was raised up to provide an eight-inch-
wide gap at the bottom. This beehive door
concept allows us to keep the door shut
during cold weather and the birds can come
and go thru the 8”x36” wide space under the
door to access the flight pen. By doing this,
we are able to keep the floor set at 60 degrees
during the winter and the birds can go in and
out of the building and keep heat loss to a
minimum. This past February, we suffered
through some of the coldest temperatures on
record. We had several nights of ten degrees
below zero, but the barn stayed a constant
60 degrees inside. I was pleasantly surprised
when the electric bill came in at $58.

As you all know, it is getting tougher
and tougher to be in business with higher
labor and production costs. It is very im-
portant that we all come up with ideas that
can be shared with each other to keep our
industry viable and profitable with new
technologies and ideas.

18 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021 • NAGA NEWS

IT TAKES A HUNTER

TO MAKE A HUNTER.

TAKE A FRIEND HUNTING.

If just 1 in 3 hunters create a new hunter, we’ll build a strong future for
the way of life we love. So join the +ONESM Movement and be the one.
Take someone hunting who’s never been. For tips, videos and other resources

to help make that first hunt a success, visit LetsGoHunting.org™

NAGA NEWS • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021 • 19

HOW STRONG IS YOUR DISEASE RISK AND ADOBE STOCK
BIOSECURITY PLAN?
BIOSECURITY
PRACTICING BIOSECURITY IS NOT
GOING TO FADE AWAY Biosecurity. You have been
hearing this word associated
BY ABBY SCHUFT, EXTENSION EDUCATOR, POULTRY, UNIVERSITY OF with your birds constantly
M I N N E S O TA since 2015. However, I have
a strong feeling I am not the
only person that has had
extra time in the past year
to contemplate how we are
using biosecurity to mini-
mize the spread of the novel
coronavirus.

With respect to human
and bird health, practicing
biosecurity is not going to
fade away. I am confident it
will get easier as it becomes a
standard of your production
culture and our everyday
habits. Although, as circum-
stances change, so will your
biosecurity needs. One year
into the pandemic, our per-
sonal biosecurity is changing,
because the risk is changing.
Vaccines are being widely
distributed, but variants of
the virus are now circulating.
Protocols recommended by
the CDC constantly change
in response to the current
risk. The same needs to be
true for your farm biosecurity.
Regardless of circumstances,
your biosecurity protocols
and culture need to be as
dynamic as your business. As
risk changes, so should your
biosecurity. More important-
ly, these changes need to be
reflected in a recent version of
your written biosecurity plan.

NPIP BIOSECURITY PLANS

If you raise more than
25,000 birds annually, you
have completed your first
NPIP Biosecurity Plan
Audit, maybe even your
second. The reality of a new
requirement like the Plan
Audit means everyone is
doing this for the first time;
producers are first-time

20 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• NAGA NEWS

NAGA NEWS • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• 21

WITH RESPECT TO HUMAN AND
BIRD HEALTH, PRACTICING
BIOSECURITY IS NOT GOING TO
FADE AWAY.

ABBY SCHUFT auditors from your Official the NPIP developed the specifically to your farm can SHUTTERSTOCK
State Agency (OSA) may be biosecurity principles and be a challenge, but needs to
writers and auditors are “good enough” to satisfacto- had to do so with multiple be addressed in your plan.
first-time reviewers, some rily pass the audit but may avian industries in mind. The
in person and some on not be optimal for minimiz- principles you see published That said, I have two
paper. Another reality is bi- ing your disease risk. are minimum biosecurity questions for you to consider:
osecurity plans presented to management practices that
If you raise less than are expected of all indus- 1 HOW EFFECTIVE
25,000 birds annually and tries. What may be an ideal IS YOUR WRITTEN
a plan audit is not required, biosecurity practice for the BIOSECURITY PLAN?
it is a best practice to have, broiler industry in Georgia is
maintain and use a site-spe- not likely applicable or prac- 2 IF YOU WERE TO USE
cific biosecurity plan. Use tical for a gamebird breeder YOUR BIOSECURITY
of the NPIP biosecurity in Minnesota. Production PLAN TO TRAIN A NEW
principles is a great place systems vary so widely in the EMPLOYEE OR A PERSON
to start. avian world, translating what NOT AFFILIATED WITH
the NPIP principle means YOUR FARM, WOULD THEY
The General Confer- HAVE A REASONABLE
ence Committee (GCC) of

22 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• NAGA NEWS

more thoroughly assess risk null and void. You can build programming focus is edu-
and address how your farm a culture of biosecurity cating poultry producers and
can and will mitigate that through your biosecurity backyard poultry owners about
risk, which will strengthen plan for your farm to opti- applied biosecurity, Danish en-
your biosecurity plan. mize this tier. try requirements, and required
NPIP Biosecurity Plan audit-
Conceptual biosecurity In the next few weeks, ing. She is heavily involved in
considers where your farm I challenge you to critical- the development of innovative
is and its business concept. ly answer the questions biosecurity outreach tools
Through this lens, you will I posed earlier. Here’s to and technologies such as the
consider the natural envi- a productive and healthy Biosecure Entry Education
ronment that surrounds your year for your families and Trailer (BEET), in-person and
farm, like whether you have businesses! virtual biosecurity simulation
bodies of water that attract activities and developing
waterfowl, or wooded areas Abby Schuft joined University curriculum for undergraduate
nearby that provide shelter of Minnesota (UMN) Exten- and graduate courses at UMN.
for wildlife or potential pred- sion in 2013 after a decade of She is a PhD candidate in the
ators. This concept will also experience in the agriculture Dept. of Animal Science and
evaluate your locale within industry. In 2016, she began contributes to the outreach
the community, such as how her current role as poultry team of Secure Poultry Supply
close you are to human and Extension educator where programs as an outreach
avian neighbors. Being very her professional interests are and teaching specialist. You
close to or in a town, or being related to biosecurity and can reach Abby via email at
in a densely populated avian emergency preparedness. Her [email protected].
community, affects your
UNDERSTANDING OF disease risk and needs to
YOUR BIOSECURITY be minimized through your
EXPECTATIONS AND biosecurity.
PROCEDURES?
Structural biosecurity
TIERS OF BIOSECURITY refers to tangible and fixed
There are three tiers to cost features of your produc-
biosecurity: conceptual, tion system. This is consid-
structural, and operational. ered the most important
This article will introduce tier of biosecurity, because
these concepts. My purpose if the farm structure does
for introducing the tiers not allow for ideal practices,
of biosecurity is for you you will be less effective at
to start evaluating each keeping disease away. Struc-
NPIP biosecurity principle tural biosecurity can include
through the lens of each physical items like the walls
tier. Doing so will help you of your hatchery or the
netting of your flight pens,
or management systems like
all-in/all-out practices.

Operational biosecurity
is the human aspect of keep-
ing birds free of disease. It is
the least dependable of the
three tiers because it relies
on the behavior of people.
You can have disposable
boots at the entry door of
your hatchery (structural),
but if people do not use
them or use them improper-
ly, your biosecurity becomes

NAGA NEWS • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• 23

On the
‘Gram

WORDS TO THE WISE –
DON’T WAIT TO BEEF
UP YOUR SECURITY

BY MICHELLE
SCHEUERMANN,
ARCHERY WIRE EDITOR

S eems there was some hubbub a I’ll start with the easiest and end with the you. SOLEN FEYISSA
few months ago on Instagram hardest/most costly. If this fails you, be quick about
with a very prominent archery
brand. The gist of the scenario is the 1 TWO-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION. following the steps laid out by Instagram
brand’s Instagram account was hacked. If you don’t already have two-step on this help page. https://help.instagram.
Their photos were systematically, and factor authentication set-up on your com/149494825257596
slowly, deleted; their profile photo was Instagram and Facebook accounts,
changed; and their bio was adjusted to please stop reading this and DO. IT. You may be wondering why brands
not-very-nice-things. RIGHT. NOW. It doesn’t matter if you don’t already have this set up. Well, it’s
have a personal IG account, or a brand because it is annoying. Let me explain.
This is the nightmare of every social account. As a brand, you probably have two to
media manager. three people who have access to your
How to do it: On Instagram, go into Instagram account at any given day.
Like for real, I have bad dreams about Settings --> Security --> Two-Factor You may have to add someone to help
this happening to any one of my clients. Authentication. I recommend the texting with a special project and you can’t
option. But choose what works best for just give them your log in information.
However, there are systems available No, with two-step turned on, you give
to you to avoid such catastrophic events.

24 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• NAGA NEWS

them the log-in and then you have to were first able to get her back on Insta- Like, ever. But I recommend doing this
coordinate timing of them logging in, gram, and then they hired the company monthly. Mainly to piss off Instagram
so you can give them the code gener- again to get her back on Facebook. Total and it makes me feel good that we are all
ated, which was texted to the account money spent was around $200. Worth striving to do that.
owner’s phone, so they can gain access it? I think so.
to the page. Why won’t you hear back? Oh, there
For around $150, you can pay are many reasons floating around on
It sounds silly as I type this – but hon- Hacked.com to have your problems the interwebs … some say it is because
estly, coordinating timing is annoying. fixed. That fee covers follow-ups on Instagram is backlogged, some say it is
But do it anyway. the same issue, at least it did for my because they suck (I say that, actually),
friend. They sign you up for an ongoing and some say it is because they just get
2 DON’T OPEN FISHY OR SPAMMY maintenance account, something like too many requests with the billions of
EMAILS! I asked Chuck Rossi, $6/month, but you can easily cancel users out there.
former Facebook employee and that, which my friend did, as well. The
currently editor of OpenSourceDe- founder, Jonas, has a scheduling tool Those are your steps to avoid getting
fense.Org, for advice regularly when it online and you meet with him over your accounts hacked from easiest to the
comes to social media shenanigans. He Skype to go over what happened, pro- most difficult.
reminded me that spammy emails are vide log in information and so on.
still one of the main tactics hackers use I recommend bookmarking this
to gain access to your computer, and 5 GET YOUR ACCOUNT VERIFIED. article and share it far and wide with
your data. “The main attack vector of Getting an account verified on the your friends. The important thing to re-
phishing emails on Facebook pages are ‘gram is as likely going to happen member is to be aware of who has access
the things people *really* need to watch to you, or your brand’s account, as to your passwords, and to change them
out for,” shared Rossi. “I’ve seen some winning the lottery. If it does hap- regularly.
recently that are really effective and pen, count your lucky stars and buy a
official looking.” lottery ticket. Michelle Scheuermann is editor of the
Archery Wire, which you can subscribe
3 DON’T SHARE PASSWORDS How to do it: On Instagram, go to for free. She also hosts an industry
ACROSS SITES. If your email to Settings --> Account --> Request insider podcast, “Off the Record with The
password, Instagram and Facebook Verification. You need a driver’s license Sporting Chef and Michelle,” which can
passwords are all the same, and one of the account holder, and then answer be heard at https://offtherecordscottand-
of them is compromised, you are, in a a few questions. You will not hear back. michelle.libsyn.com.
sense, screwed.
® SALES
A friend of mine had her Facebook Director of Operations • Sarah Pope
account hacked recently. They took it CHINESE RINGNECK
over, changed her birthday to a very KANSAS RINGNECK [email protected]
young age, so that Facebook would MANCHURIAN RINGNECK CROSS Mature Bird Sales • Sarah Baker
never allow her to have a Facebook MELANISTIC MUTANT
page, and then proceeded to take over CHUKAR PARTRIDGE [email protected]
her Facebook Advertising account. FRENCH REDLEG PARTRIDGE Day Old Chick Sales • April Goble
They were successful in charging up- HUNGARIAN PARTRIDGE
wards of $1,000 on her company card. [email protected]
It didn’t stop there. Her Facebook and 2821 S. U.S. Hwy 51 Food Product Sales • Karina Haas
Instagram passwords were the same, or Janesville, Wisconsin 53546
similar enough for them to access her [email protected]
Instagram, and they proceeded to take Phone: 608-757-7881
that over, too. She had no recourse. She Toll Free: 800-345-8348 Visit our food product
tried verifying her age with Facebook www.pheasant.com website at:
by submitting her driver’s license, but
again, Facebook is either backlogged, or www.pheasantfordinner.com
doesn’t care. So, then what? They found
third-party help. TECHNICAL
ADVICE
4 HIRE A THIRD-PARTY COMPANY.
This is super-duper scary, but my Director of Logistics • Chris Theisen
friend found this company and they [email protected]

Director of Production • Troy Cisewski
[email protected]

Director of Food Products • Shayne Noller
[email protected]

NAGA NEWS • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• 25

LAS VEGAS CONVENTION OFFERS
BUSINESS, NETWORKING AND FUN

“DINNER AND A SHOW” PACKAGE TO BE OFFERED WITH CONVENTION REGISTRATION

BY ROB SEXTON, NAGA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

I f it feels like déjà vu all the heart of the Strip on Las the King of Rock and Roll. Caesar’s Entertainment
over again, it’s because Vegas Boulevard. In 2022, NAGA attendees will also be offering dis-
it’s true. About one year will have an opportunity counted tickets to NAGA
ago NAGA News featured Other than the year and for a night of fun in Elvis’s attendees who want to expe-
an article just like this one the upgraded location, noth- favorite town. With the rience the High Roller, which
promoting all of the reasons ing else has really changed. expected return of the full is the giant Ferris wheel
why gamebird businesses Registration costs are the show schedule, NAGA will that towers over the Strip.
should register for the same, as is the nightly hotel offer a “Dinner and a Show” The High Roller features
convention in fabulous Las rate. The format will be the option for Tuesday evening, enclosed air-conditioned
Vegas. But of course, that same as well, with the con- just as we had planned for cabins that hold groups of
event was cancelled like vention kicking off at noon on this past year before we were people as the wheel over-
most other public events Monday, January 31, and con- forced to cancel. looks the lit Vegas strip.
over the past year or so. cluding with the awards ban-
quet on Wednesday evening, Tickets will be available On the business front,
The good news, however, February 2. After hearing a through the NAGA website the Convention Commit-
is that we are able to keep lot of positive feedback, the on the convention registra- tee is working on putting
our plans to bring the NAGA Tuesday convention schedule tion page. The group will together an agenda that
Convention to Las Vegas ends at noon, allowing people enjoy dinner at one of Bally’s promises to be full of useful
with the 2022 event sched- to take the afternoon off to restaurants, followed by a and entertaining topics and
uled for January 31 through enjoy the sights and sounds of 7:30 p.m. reservation for speakers. The event will also
February 2. The even better Las Vegas. “Extravaganza!”, which is include many opportunities
news is that we have been similar to a Cirque du Soleil to visit with exhibitors and
upgraded. Instead of the This year’s convention show, right there in our own to reconnect with friends
Rio, the convention will be will also feature some group hotel. NAGA attendees will during receptions and meal
hosted by Bally’s Las Vegas fun, too. NAGA 2020 attend- receive discounted tickets functions.
Hotel and Casino, located in ees will remember our visit for the show. Prices for the
to Graceland, the home of dinner and a show package You won’t want to miss
will be announced as soon as it when NAGA gets back
Bally’s confirms the reopen- together again! Be sure to EXTRAVAGANZA!
ing of its show schedule. register at www.northameri-
cangamebird.com.



NORTH AMERICAN GAMEBIRD
FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP

APPLICATION DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR JOHN MULLIN SCHOLARSHIP

T he North American the late John Mullin. Any tions, along with their career be reviewed by the NAGF ADOBE STOCK
Gamebird Founda- NAGA member, or child or interests and goals Scholarship Committee.
tion (NAGF) is once grandchild of a NAGA mem- 3. If in high school, a tran-
again offering the John ber, is eligible to apply. script of their grades Funds will be sent direct-
Mullin Memorial Scholar- 4. If in high school and ly to the learning institution
ship. The deadline to apply APPLICANTS WILL BE accepted to a college or uni- of the recipients.
is August 15. ASKED TO SUBMIT THE versity, a copy of the letter of
FOLLOWING INFORMATION acceptance Please visit northamer-
JOHN MULLIN 1. Completed application 5. If in college, a transcript of icangamebird.com/nagf/
MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP 2. One-page bio/essay their grades nagfs-john-mullin-scholar-
The John Mullin Memorial explaining the applicant’s 6. Verification of SAT or ship to apply online, or to
Scholarship awards up to interest in gamebird pro- ACT scores download the application
five $1,000 post-high school duction, hunting preserve or form to mail in. Any ques-
scholarships in the name of other shooting sports opera- Scholarship applications tions may be sent to info@
submitted by August 15 will northamericangamebird.
com.

28 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021• NAGA NEWS

IN EVERY ISSUE
CLASSIFIEDS • NEW MEMBERS

FOR SALE WELCOME NEW MEMBERS ITY · IL 612
Bobwhite quail or ringneck pheasant eggs,
day-old chicks and flight birds. NPIP. NAGA SPONSOR: MIDWEST
Member. Contact Harper’s Game Farm at Longtail Farms – Baxter Springs, KS;
www.harpersgamefarm.com or (806) 435- Hatchery, NPIP, Producer; P PHEASANTRIES, INC.
3495 in Booker, Texas.
BASIC: We specialize in
FOR SALE Groves Hidden Acres – Hackensack, prestarts, Pheasants
Burch Cooler Model 3000-5T 110v, 84 Red MN; Producer; P
Feather Feeders for feed system, 16-25’ cup Schwarze Farms – New Braunfels, TX and Chukars
waters, 23 Gas Pancake Heaters, 1” Chicken Sunflower Gamebirds – Canton, KS;
Wire PVC coated 2’ & 4’ height, 3” Rope Producer; C, Q Early season chukar and pheasant eggs,
Pulleys, Air Craft Cable 1/4 & 5/16, Cable Mature French Red Leg, Cross and
Clamps, Kuhl Egg Nesters, Egg Packing BUSINESS TYPE: Black Chukar. and Mature
Foam, 2 Lyon Debeakers. Call Fuzzy (505) BGO – Big Game Operator Ringneck Pheasant.
384-5163 or (505) 220-3588 (cell). EH – European Hunts
FT – Field Trials (309) 791-0463
ADVERTISE HPO – Hunting Preserve
HERE! Operator midwestpheasantries.com
KO – Kennel Operator
NAGA Basic members receive NPIP – National Poultry We deliver! Please call or
one free ad per membership Improvement Plan email us for details.
year. Business, Sponsor and NSCA – National Sporting Clays
Diamond members receive Association Prices and availability
two free classifieds. Addition- SC – Sporting Clays subject to change.
al Classified ads are only $25
for 50 words or less, plus $.50 BIRDS HANDLED: Operated by Mark and
per additional word. Please P – Pheasants Beverly Weber and family
send ads to stephanie@ Q – Quail since 1986.
northamericangamebird.com C – Chukar
H – Hungarian Partridge Midwest
M – Mallard Duck Pheasantries, Inc.
T – Wild Turkey
D – Doves
O – Others/Ornamentals

ILLINOIS C 59

IN EVERY ISSUE
CALENDAR

Upcoming Calendar of Events

2021 2022 Bally’s Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV
AUGUST JANUARY northamericangamebird.com

1 – 30 18 – 21 SEND US YOUR
CALENDAR ITEMS!
National Shooting Sports Month National Shooting Sports Foundation Shooting,
shootingsportsmonth.org Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show (SHOT Show) Attention conservation organiza-
Sands Expo and Convention Center tions, state and regional gamebird
15 Las Vegas, NV associations and other industry-re-
shotshow.org lated groups. NAGA News would
North American Gamebird Foundation’s John like to list your upcoming banquet or
Mullin Scholarship 25 – 27 event in our Upcoming Calendar of
Deadline to apply Events. Simply submit event infor-
northamericangamebird.com/nagf International Production & Processing Expo mation including date, time, place,
Georgia World Congress Center organization name, contact and
SEPTEMBER Atlanta, GA website to stephanie@northameri-
ippexpo.org cangamebird.com. Please remember
8 – 12 the magazine prints well in advance
31 – FEBRUARY 2 of the publication date.
Ducks Unlimited National Convention
New Orleans, LA North American Gamebird Association Annual
ducks.org Educational Conference and Convention

30 • JULY 2021 / AUGUST 2021 • NAGA NEWS

CRAFTING
HOLISTIC
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SOLUTIONS
THAT OPTIMIZE
ANIMAL
WELL-BEING

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