January 14, 2025

The University of Maryland Poultry Extension has officially launched an in-depth survey initiative designed to understand better the evolving needs of the poultry industry across the Delmarva region. This strategic effort underscores the Extension’s commitment to supporting one of the region’s most vital agricultural sectors and shaping forward-thinking programs that meet industry demands.

A Tailored Approach for Comprehensive Insight

The initiative features four distinct surveys, each meticulously crafted to gather insights from different stakeholder groups. The findings will play a crucial role in enhancing support services and guiding the development of future Extension programs.

  • Commercial Broiler Chicken Growers: This survey seeks feedback on pressing industry topics, including farm automation, biosecurity measures, environmental regulations, and resource management strategies. Participants will also provide insights into production system experiences, such as conventional, antibiotic-free, and organic methods.
  • Vertical Integrators: Designed for industry professionals, this survey focuses on technological implementation, management practices, communication preferences, and patterns of technological adoption.
  • Allied Industry Partners: Exploring industry trends, customer challenges, growth opportunities, and product development strategies, this survey aims to identify key areas for advancement.
  • Backyard Poultry Growers: Small-scale poultry keepers are encouraged to share information about flock management, operational challenges, and overall experiences to enhance support for this growing community.

Why Your Feedback Matters

"The poultry industry is integral to the region’s economy and agricultural landscape," said Dr. Sunoh Che, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist at the University of Maryland. "These surveys are critical for understanding the unique challenges faced by various stakeholders and ensuring that our programs deliver relevant, actionable solutions."

Take the Survey and Shape the Future

Stakeholders are invited to participate via the following links:

Connect with Us

For more information about the survey or University of Maryland Extension’s poultry programs, please visit Meet Our Educators or contact us directly.