
The ESA Efficiency Series: Insights from Jeremy Prinzen on Poultry Production
Understanding the Legacy of Innovation
Jeremy Prinzen, a prominent chicken farmer from Ontario, embodies a legacy of innovation in poultry production. With his family’s longstanding commitment to advancements in ventilation—rooted in his Uncle Dick’s early adoption of six NTUs (New Technology Units) in Ontario—Jeremy champions efficiency, sustainability, and education within the poultry community. For more on Jeremy’s work, visit Prinzen Poultry.
The Significance of Ventilation in Poultry Farming
Jim Eadie, Poultry Producer: Ventilation is often termed the “hidden driver” of poultry production. From your perspective, why is it so critical for both efficiency and animal welfare on the farm?
Jeremy Prinzen: A well-configured ventilation system is crucial for bird health and optimal energy utilization.
The Family Legacy and Modern Barn Management
Jim Eadie: How has your family’s early connection with ventilation innovation influenced your approach to barn management and investments in systems?
Jeremy Prinzen: My perspective on barn management remains consistent; I prioritize systems that provide control over barn conditions. I value products from companies that offer reliable support from installation onward.
Energy Efficiency and Profitability Connection
Jim Eadie: Inefficient barns not only lead to increased energy costs but also impact feed efficiency and overall performance. How do you see the relationship between improved ventilation, feed savings, and profitability?
Jeremy Prinzen: Poor ventilation leads to high humidity, CO2, and ammonia levels, which cause inefficiencies during grow-out. While saving on energy costs may seem appealing, it can result in lower returns. Conversely, over-ventilation also inflates costs. Utilizing an ESA (Energy-Saving Application) with a quality controller, such as Maximus, allows full control of the barn environment, driving maximum profits.
The ESA Approach to Sustainable Solutions
Jim Eadie: ESA emphasizes education and sustainable approaches rather than quick fixes. How do you believe this strategy aids Ontario producers in making informed long-term decisions?
Jeremy Prinzen: The educational focus of ESA is incredibly valuable for broiler producers. There is constant pressure to implement quick solutions for issues such as bird health, feed efficiency, and energy costs. Relying on quick fixes often leads to recurring problems. ESA provides resources to address the root causes of issues, resulting in healthier birds, more resource-efficient operations, and a farm set for future success.
Advice for Modernizing Poultry Operations
Jim Eadie: What guidance would you offer to poultry producers looking to modernize their barns for future efficiency and sustainability?
Jeremy Prinzen: Producers should evaluate the evolution of companies and their products. ESA’s commitment to continuous improvement in ventilation technology is crucial. With ongoing research on efficiencies, it’s vital that farmers invest in adaptable products that evolve alongside both hardware and software advancements.
This interview is a part of the ESA Efficiency Series: Fast 5. To explore more about ESA’s commitment to enhancing poultry barn ventilation and energy efficiency, visit ESA Series.
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