In The Coop

In this episode of In the Coop, hosts Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall are joined by Dr. Emily Martin from the University of Guelph to discuss the evolving scientific understanding of Enterococcus cecorum in poultry. The conversation explores how this once-commensal organism emerged as a significant poultry pathogen, changing clinical presentations observed in recent years, advances in diagnostics and surveillance, and the ongoing research questions surrounding transmission, pathogenic strains, and disease progression. Listeners can explore Dr. Martin's publication, Enterococcus cecorum: Changing clinical presentation in an emerging poultry pathogen, through the University of Guelph Animal Health Laboratory: University of Guelph Animal Health Laboratory Article Additional enterococcosis resources, including the Merck Veterinary Manual compendium available through the Poultry Industry Council, can be accessed here: Poultry Industry Council Vet Compendium

In this episode of In the Coop, Charlotte and Tom speak with Jim Collins and Amy Collins from Harvest Hands about how their organization is addressing food insecurity and the critical role poultry protein plays in supporting families and communities. They explore how Ontario poultry producers and industry partners can get involved—through donating chicken, turkey, or eggs, or by volunteering their time as a team-building opportunity. To learn more or get involved, visit HarvestHands.ca and see how your operation can make a meaningful impact. Check out their website, and look over the current needs to see how you can help them support their community today!

In this episode of In the Coop, Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall speak with Paul Stehelin from Polaron Solar about how on-farm solar is becoming a practical and cost-effective solution for Ontario poultry producers. The days are getting longer, which means more sunlight and more potential! They break down what a customized solar study includes, explore available incentives—including Ontario's new rebate of up to $860,000—and walk through real financial projections such as energy savings, return on investment, and payback timelines. If you're looking to reduce operating costs and improve long-term energy resilience on your farm, this episode offers clear, actionable insights to help you evaluate whether solar is the right fit for your operation. To find more information, please check out: polaronsolar.com They are willing to offer references upon request! Start your research to gather the information you need to make informed decisions for your business. 

In this episode of In the Coop, Charlotte Wall sits down with Ron Shoup, recipient of the 2025 Ed McKinlay Poultry Worker of the Year Award, along with his nominator, Dave Stanfield. Together, they discuss Ron's journey in the poultry industry, the dedication and teamwork that define his work ethic, and why he was selected for this prestigious honour. Dave shares what inspired him to submit the nomination, offering insight into the leadership and quiet excellence that the Ed McKinlay Poultry Worker of the Year Award was created to recognize. It's a conversation about pride in poultry, commitment to the craft, and the people who keep Ontario's industry strong—one barn, one flock, and one team at a time.

Winter can be one of the toughest seasons on the farm, and in this timely episode of In the Coop, hosts Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall turn the conversation toward something just as important as flock health — farmer mental wellbeing. Joined by Jennifer MacTavish, Chair of the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing (CCAW), the discussion explores the realities of stress, isolation, and burnout in agriculture, especially during the long days and heavy workloads that define February for many poultry and livestock producers. Jennifer shares insights from national research, outlines common stressors facing farm families, and highlights practical strategies producers can use to support their own mental health and that of their crews. The episode also spotlights key supports available to farmers, including CCAW's education initiatives and the National Farmer Wellness Network, which provides confidential, 24/7 crisis support tailored specifically to agriculture. Listeners are encouraged to continue the conversation, reduce stigma, and stay connected to resources designed by and for the farming community. You can call the crisis support 24/7/365 at 1-866-FARMS-01 or dial 1-866-357-6701.  To find more information about CCWA, including programs and resources, please visit their website: ccaw.ca        

🎙️ New Episode: In the Coop – A Year in Review with PIC Chair Caroline Gonano Join hosts Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall as they sit down with Caroline Gonano, Chair of the Poultry Industry Council and representative with Turkey Farmers of Canada, for a lighthearted but insightful look back at PIC's past year of education, events, and industry impact. Caroline shares highlights from 2025, reflects on the value of PIC's founding members and executive sponsors, and gives listeners a sneak peek at the exciting lineup of 2026 programs and events. From Producer Updates to PSIW and hands-on extension opportunities, this episode dives into how PIC continues to support a strong, connected, and informed poultry community across Ontario. A perfect listen for producers, service providers, and anyone curious about how PIC keeps the industry learning, collaborating, and moving forward.

In the Coop – Fogging, Fresh Starts & Farm-Ready Disinfection  In this episode of In the Coop, Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall sit down with Bill Ireland of Arbourdale to explore how their proprietary fogger technology and Arbrox stabilized peroxide solution are changing the way poultry barns are disinfected. From 10-micron dry fog particles to whole-facility coverage, Bill breaks down how this innovation helps farmers boost biosecurity, save time, and achieve a deeper clean with confidence. Tune in for a practical, insightful conversation about smarter sanitation and the future of barn hygiene.

From the days of cassette tapes and clunky waterers to today's smart barns and data-driven decisions — innovation in poultry has come a long way! Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall sit down with Kelly Sommerville from the Livestock Research Innovation Corporation (LRIC) to talk about how Ontario's poultry farmers are leading the charge in adopting new technologies, collaborating across sectors, and shaping a sustainable future for farming. 🎧 Tune in for a fun, insightful look at how innovation has evolved — and what early adopters are gaining by staying ahead of the curve.

🥚 In the Coop – Cracking into Ontario Ag Week with Egg Farmers of Ontario 🐔 It's Ontario Agriculture Week! Anneke Donkers-Stickney from Egg Farmers of Ontario to celebrate the egg industry and the farmers who keep Ontario supplied with fresh, local eggs year-round. She shares how she went about building a new barn, finding the best fit for the birds and her busy life as well as how an early adopter can succeed as the pave the way forward.  From the importance of connecting with consumers, to fun ways to celebrate Ag Week at home or in your community, this lighthearted conversation reminds us why eggs are a true staple—and why Ontario agriculture matters every day. 🎧 Tune in for a cracking good chat about eggs, farming, and celebrating Ontario's food and farmers!

🌱 In the Coop – Sustainability in Poultry 🐔 Sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it's shaping the way Ontario's poultry sector grows, innovates, and connects with consumers. In this episode of In the Coop, Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall welcome Christoph Wand to break down what sustainability really means for poultry production. From defining the term in practical farm-focused language to discussing real-world examples, Christoph shares insights on balancing economics, environment, and animal care, while also building public trust in Ontario-grown food. 🎧 Tune in for a lighthearted but meaningful conversation that explores how poultry farmers can approach sustainability with confidence and clarity.

As summer temperatures rise, so does the pressure on poultry farmers to keep their barns comfortable and their birds thriving. In this hot-topic episode of In the Coop, Tom and Charlotte welcome Luke Groszeibl, Poultry territory manager at Trouw Nutrition and owner operator of Site Solutions, to talk all things ventilation. (Contact information below). Luke shares practical tips and insights on how to manage airflow, reduce heat stress, and avoid common summertime mistakes in broiler and layer barns. Whether you're troubleshooting fan performance, tweaking inlets, or just trying to beat the humidity, this episode offers real-world advice to keep your flock cool and productive. Tune in for a breezy conversation full of useful strategies, a few laughs, and a fresh perspective on barn management—just in time for Ontario's summer heat. 🐔 Listen now to keep your barn—and your birds—ahead of the heatwave!   Looking to speak with Luke directly? Here's how: Site Solutions 905-359-4496 or Trouw Nutrition - Poultry Territory Manager 519-801-7128

In this episode of In the Coop, Charlotte Wall and Tom Lewis sit down with Maggy Watson, the newly appointed General Manager of the Feather Board Command Centre (FBCC). Maggy shares her vision for strengthening Ontario's poultry biosecurity, how FBCC supports producers during disease outbreaks, and what tools and training are available to help you stay prepared. Learn about Rapid Response Teams, proactive planning, and why staying informed matters more than ever. For more information and resources, visit www.fbcc.ca.

Local Food Week Special Just in time for Local Food Week 2025, we're cracking open an important conversation about how farmers can confidently engage with the public about poultry production. Our guest this week is none other than Janelle Cardiff—Field Operations Manager at Grey Ridge Eggs and Chair of Farm & Food Care Ontario. Janelle brings her passion for farming, her experience in egg production, and her leadership in public outreach to the coop. We talk about why public trust matters, how to tackle tricky questions from consumers, and simple ways farmers can share their stories—whether it's at the farmers' market, on social media, or around the BBQ. Whether you're a seasoned producer or new to public engagement, this episode is full of practical insights and encouragement to help you be part of the bigger conversation about Ontario-grown food. To learn more about Farm & Food Care Ontario, there resources and more; checkout their website! farmfoodcareon.org Show your support, and story during Local Food Week 2025. Tag your posts with #loveONfood To help you on your way to show your love for Ontario you can download posts from Farm & Food Care Ontario here: farmfoodcareon.org/download/local-food-week-2025  

🐔💻 Poultry farming meets artificial intelligence! 🎧 Listen now and see what's possible. In this episode, I sat down with David Speller from @OptiFarm to talk about how artificial intelligence is already changing barns around the world — and what it could mean for your farm. We discuss how to get started, and what it can actually do for you. After this you will not only know more about aritifical intelligence, you will understand how it can integrate to make you great! Better bird health, faster decisions, more efficiency... the future is here. 🔥 Do you still want more? To find more information about OptiFarm, and their solutions with artificial intelligence powered precisions for every step of the supply chain - check out this link: https://optifarm.co.uk/our-ai-solution/

In this episode we will explore poultry manure insights with Christine Brown. She is the Sustainability Specialist – Field Crops, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA). We will discuss what makes poultry manure unique, and the strategies that will sult in the best use as well as profitability of your nutrients.    You may want to check out the Nutrient Management Act (2002), as well as the AgriSuite to help calculate the value of your black gold!   Manure Monday webinars are posted online by Field Crop News. There is one that directly addresses poultry, and could be a great place to start with their series. You can check it out on YouTube with this link: https://youtu.be/iiDSh0nxzCM?si=dTXBzdztkdInYq6k   We hope you enjoy this podcast!

In this epsidoe we will discuss the methods of deadstock management. Key themes will include the importancce of proper deadstock management, common deadstock disposal methods, and biosecurity best practices. Guest speakers include Al Dam, and Dan Ward from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. Al is the Provincial Poultry Specialist, and Dan is the Agricultural Engineer.  They will discuss the methods, and techniques of each method, as well as what you might need to be prepared to manage if you are choosing to invest in  a particular method. They will use their years of experince, and knowledge of the regulations to help you understand the pros and cons to options for your management of deadstock. Please feel free to check out the regulations for your self here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/deadstock-management-farm-animals-ontario

Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall interview Michelle deNijs, from the Canadian Mental Health Association The agricultural community plays a vital role in ensuring Ontario has a healthy economy and local food security – supporting the well-being of all Ontarians. Their programs are tailored specifically for the Ontario agricultural community to provide for their well-being as well.  Listen to their podcast to find out how you can access resources, and support your community.  For more details check out their website: agriculturewellnessontario.ca To speak with Michelle, feel free to contact her at: [email protected]   

In this episode of In the Coop, we will talk about the business that keeps the operation moving! Farm Management Canada's Executive Director; Heather Watson, will share her experience and expertise. How Farm Management Canada has grown to support Canadian agriculture navigating challenges with resources and programs. The conversation will focus on collaboration, the future of farming and feature an annual event celebrating family farms. Farm transition appreciation day helps families begin the new year with a united plan and shared goals. We hope you enjoy this episode.  

This episode covers all things ventilation for a poultry barn. Our guest speakers is Bob Swayze. He is a poultry sales representative at Wallenstein Feed and Supply with a dynamic history in the industry. Bob is passionate about continuous learning, and has spent considerable time focused on ventilation. Bob shares what he has learned from the types of ventilation and how the size and design of barns can impact the results. He will dive into how technology has evolved to offer us more information and insight into managing your bans for optimal success! 

Dr. Susan Watkins, University of Arkansas shares with us, what the research shows at three different water temperatures during brooding. What temperature do you think showed the highest weight gains by the end of the study. The answer may surprise you. 

Hear what it takes to move research into the barn from Dr.  Doug Korver of University of Alberta. Originally recorded during the Research Impacts webinar 2020. 

We sit down with Dr. Lisa Bielke, a Poultry Enteric Health Researcher, from Ohio State University. Her main focus is on gut health but as you listen to this episode you'll realize that bacteria may be introduced through the gut but they don't always stay put and this can have major impacts on your flock's well being.  

Dr.Scott Gillingham gives advice on how to keep your coop a clean and safe place for your flock from predators you can and can't see. This project was funded in part through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership), a federal-provincial-territorial initiative. The Agricultural Adaptation Council assists in the delivery of the Partnership in Ontario.

Dr.Scott Gillingham gives advice on keeping your flock properly hydrated for optimal health and production. This project was funded in part through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership), a federal-provincial-territorial initiative. The Agricultural Adaptation Council assists in the delivery of the Partnership in Ontario.

Dr.Scott Gillingham gives advice on the importance of air quality in your coop to optimize your flock's health and production. This project was funded in part through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership), a federal-provincial-territorial initiative. The Agricultural Adaptation Council assists in the delivery of the Partnership in Ontario.

Thanks for your patience in airing this episode. In this podcast, Dr.Scott Gillingham gives advice on how the lighting in your coop to improve your flock's health and production. This project was funded in part through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership), a federal-provincial-territorial initiative. The Agricultural Adaptation Council assists in the delivery of the Partnership in Ontario.

Dr.Scott Gillingham gives advice on how to feed your flock for optimal health and production. This project was funded in part through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership), a federal-provincial-territorial initiative. The Agricultural Adaptation Council assists in the delivery of the Partnership in Ontario.

In The Coop will be featuring Dr.Scott Gillingham's FLAWS podcast. Today we dive into what FLAWS stands for and its importance to poultry husbandry no matter your flock size. Stay tuned for the 5 Laws of FLAWS episodes! If you're a visual learner you can sign up for the e-modules regarding FLAWS. These comprehensive videos are easy to understand lessons on taking care of small flocks. These e-modules can be found at ichicken.ca

With the heavy rain this past summer a lot of corn has a mycotoxin called DON present. We invited Dr. Tony Wang from Canadian BioSystems to talk about his research on DON and how it affects the poultry industry. 

Ever been curious about becoming an animal auditor or how one goes about being certified? PIC gets to have a sit down with the Executive Director of PAACO, Collette Kaster.

Dr.Weber joins us for a great overview on why some producers south of the border choose to reuse litter between flocks. He lets us know about the benefits of doing so, as well as, some of the problems that can come along with this and potentially how to deal with those issues. 

Curious about poultry lighting systems and the different options available to you? Listen as we sit down with Bob Morgan from Davian Inc. & Mathew Daniel from Pols Ltd. where we discuss the challenges facing producers when it comes to choosing and maintaining lighting systems. We also take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of the energy efficient ALIS system compared to LED bulb system.  "In The Coop" is a podcast series run every 2-4 weeks and brought to you by the Poultry Industry Council. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCou and tweet along with the hashtag #InTheCoop

Need to beat the heat at your poultry barn this summer? In this episode of In The Coop we sit down with Agricultural Engineer, Harry Huffman who talks to us about the various strategies available to producers when it comes to keeping things cool... "In The Coop" is a podcast series run every 2-4 weeks and brought to you by the Poultry Industry Council. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCou and tweet along with the hashtag #InTheCoop

Is the fly population in your poultry barn starting to get too high? On this episode of "In The Coop", I sit down with OMAFRA's Al Dam and his summer student Cecilia Creighton and discuss some ways that you can combat those pesky insects and what resources are available to producers.  "In The Coop" is a  podcast series run every 2-4 weeks and brought to you by the Poultry Industry Council. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCou and tweet along with the hashtag #InTheCoop

Ever wonder what goes on at the Arkell Poultry Research Station? For this episode, we sit down with Dave Vandenberg, manager of the Arkell Livestock Research Farm to find out! Listen in as we discuss ongoing projects, research capacity and future directions for the station. "In The Coop" is a biweekly podcast series brought to you every other Wednesday by the Poultry Industry Council. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCou and tweet along with the show's hashtag #InTheCoop

Are you a broiler producer? Is your processor switching to a modular loading system? Then this may be an episode for you! Today on In The Coop we sit down with Dr. Chanelle Taylor, poultry veterinarian for Cargill Canada, and get a processor's perspective on the modular loading movement. Tune in as Dr. Taylor discusses the challenges and benefits of this new transport system, as well as answering some FAQs.  "In The Coop" is a byweekly podcast series brought to you by the Poultry Industry Council. Our next episode is scheduled to release Wednesday, May 16th 2018. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCoun and tweet along with the hashtag #InTheCoop

This week we sit down with our extra special guest Dr. Peter Ferket at the National Poultry Show. Dr. Ferket is a poultry nutritionist and extension specialist from North Carolina State University who has come home to Canada this week to chat with us. We sit down with Peter to discuss his research on in-ovo nutrition, early feeding and how they can contribute to a successful antibiotic-free program. Listen in as we chat about some of this facsinating research Dr. Ferket is doing in the field of poultry nutrition.  "In The Coop" is a byweekly podcast series brought to you by the Poultry Industry Council. The next episode is scheduled to release Wednesday, May 2nd 2018. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCou and tweet along with the hashtag #InTheCoop

Are you an RWA producer? Then this episode may be of interest to you! Tune in as we sit down with Bruce Fox, RWA broiler producer from Central Ontario to discuss his experience using probiotic cleaning products on his farm. Listen as we talk about challenges and benefits Bruce has experienced switching to this alternative cleaning program.   In The Coop is a biweekly podcast series brought to you by the Poultry Industry Council. Our next episode will be released Wed, April 18th. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCou and tweet along with the hashtag #InTheCoop

Today we sit down with Dr. Scott Gillingham, poultry veterinarian and author of the new book "Raising Amazing Chicks: the first 7 days". Scott discusses best brooding practices, management strategies and elaborates on F.L.A.W.S.S., M.B.A. and all his other favourite acronyms.  In the Coop is an educational biweekly podcast series brought to you every other Wednesday by the Poultry Industry Council. The next episode is scheduled to release Wed, April 5th 2018. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCou and tweet along with the hashtag #InTheCoop

Are you considering building a new barn? How about upgrading a old facility? Then this might be the episode for you! This week we sit down with Mark Prociw, Commercial/Industrial Account Representative with Union Gas, to discuss energy efficiency incentive programs farmers should know about. Get the best bang for your buck when upgrading to high efficiency equipment - tune in to find out how! In the Coop is a semi-weekly podcast series brought to you every other Wednesday by the Poultry Industry Council. The next episode will be released Wed, March 21st 2018. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCou and tweet along with the hashtag #InTheCoop 

What the heck is HatchTech?! On this week's episode we sit down with Murray Booy, co-founder of the new Trillium Hatchery in Stratford. Murray talk to us about chick quality and discusses some of the cool new features this new Ontario hatchery will have to offer.  In the Coop is a semi-weekly podcast series that is released every other Wednesday. Episode four will air on Wednesday, March 7th 2018. Follow us on on Twitter @PoultryInd and tweet along #InTheCoop

Ever consider a career in avian medicine? On this week's episode we talk to a titian in the Ontario poultry industry and local field veterinarian, Dr. Lloyd Weber. Tune in as Lloyd discusses the qualities he feels every poultry vet should have as he opens up about his experiences servicing the industry. Do you think you have what it takes? Listen in to find out!   In The Coop is a semi-weekly podcast series that is released every other Wednesday. Episode three will air on Wednesday, February 21st 2018. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCoun and tweet along with the hashtag #InTheCoop

The Poultry Industry Council is proud to present the very first episode of our brand new podcast series "In The Coop"! In this episode, tune in and listen to Al Dam, Provincial Poultry Specialist with OMAFRA, discuss transporting birds during extreme cold weather conditions. Zip up your coats and pull down your hats folks, it's about to get chilly!  "In The Coop" is a byweekly podcast series brought to you every other Wednesday by the Poultry Industry Council. Follow us on Twitter @PoultryIndCou and tweet along with the hashtag #InTheCoop