Board Research Initiative (BRI) Competiton

2022 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Outbreak - 9/20/22

The first 2021/2022 detection of Eurasian strain (EA) highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in North America occurred in December 2021 in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Subsequently, HPAI EA H5 and EA H5N1 viruses have been confirmed in wild birds, backyard flocks, and commercial poultry facilities in United States leading to the depopulation of millions of birds and economic distress. Although research provided answers to many issues following the 2014-2015 HPAI outbreak, there are additional questions that need to be investigated. Click here to read full initiative.

Investigation of Reduced Hatchability in Broiler Breeders - 9/20/22

Over the last several decades, the use of genetic selection by poultry genetic companies have allowed for the development of superior genetics capable of high efficiency broiler and breeder production. Furthermore, advancements in nutritional and management practices have further enhanced these results. Although continuous improvements in broiler production traits such as feed conversion, average daily gain, and breast meat yield have been observed over the course of time, key broiler breeder production traits such as hatchability have recently faltered in the process. The poultry industry depends on a regular supply of day-old chicks and this supply is dependent on the fertility and hatchability of eggs. Over the last few years, the poultry industry has experienced reduced hatchability in all broiler breeder lines causing the industry to short supply of chicks creating chicken meat shortages. While the reason of this decline is unclear, further research is needed to determine and identify the cause of reduced hatchability in broiler breeders and develop preventative best strategies in the future. Click here to read full initiative.