What is Biosecurity?

According to Wikipedia, biosecurity is a set of measures aimed at preventing the introduction and/or spread of harmful organisms, in order to minimize the risk of transmission of infectious diseases to people, animals and plants caused by viruses, bacteria or other microorganisms. Biosecurity is extremely important in the case of backyard chickens because it can help with disease prevention, especially Salmonella. The fight to allow backyard chickens in neighborhoods through the U.S. rages on, but those who currently have that luxury need to set the example of how it can be done correctly. Those who oppose the keeping of livestock have valid concerns of disease, cleanliness and odor, along with attracting unwanted pests. This makes biosecurity a key component of backyard chicken keeping.

Biosecurity may be the key determining factor of deciding whether or not backyard chickens are a mainstay in most, if not all municipalities. The work goes on to convince officials to see the value in allowing small backyard flocks. Those of us who are afforded the right need to be responsible for ensuring it’s continued success and allowance. The goal should be to eliminate doubts and fears around keeping small flocks in urban communities; by achieving this we further acceptance and expansion for places who are on the fence about such practices. There is no justification for those who oppose the keeping of chickens if it can be shown that there is minimal public health risk.

Security Checklist

Feed

  • Purchase quality feed from businesses that have good sanitation practices. If bugs are a common sight, and cobwebs are visible on walls or shelving it might be a good idea to purchase elsewhere. Torn or taped bags could be a sign of rodents so use judgement when purchasing feed.
  • Keep feeding equipment clean and in a dedicated location that can be disinfected when required.
  • Clean feeders and remove water in the evening to prevent unwanted pests from visiting. If using watering nipples and a secure water container then there is no need to remove it. Feed should never be left out overnight.

Sanitation

  • Have dedicated footwear for working with your flock, preferably rubber boots as they are easy to clean.
  • Setup up a sanitation station for your footwear to remove outdoor debris and prevent tracking bacteria indoors.
  • Quarantine all new or sick birds and be sure to care for them after caring for the rest of the flock.
  • Change clothing after dealing with sick birds and be sure to wash your hands after doing any activities with the flock.
  • Cross-contamination between flocks should be a concern among owners. Only allow people you trust to take appropriate steps to enter your yard and ensure they follow your protocol. If you visit another yard, be sure to bring a change of clothing and shoes and wash your hands frequently.
  • Make cleaning the coop a part of your daily routine to keep it pest-free. This may be quite a change for some, but its the best way to ensure a healthy flock and happy neighbors.
  • Ensure there is enough air flow in your coop to keep bedding as dry as possible to reduce the growth of bacteria.

Eggs

  • Do not wash eggs in cold water if washed at all; this will allow bacteria to enter into the egg. A very light sanding with a piece of sandpaper will remove any debris without washing. If washing is necessary, use warm water.
  • Consider refrigerating your eggs. Many of us like using room temperature eggs, but immediate refrigeration will slow or inhibit any bacterial growth.
  • Always wash your hands after dealing with eggs.

One Mind at a Time

Following these steps will go a long way towards preventing foodborne illnesses.  More satisfaction comes from caring for your flock, as pest control and prevention is handled with ease. Giving eggs to a neighbor is a great way to broker a friendship, and perhaps change the mind of someone opposed to the idea of backyard chickens.