To meet a growing demand for quality broiler breeding stock around the world, Aviagen® has built a new parent stock (PS) hatchery in Quitman, Ga. The grand opening ceremony was held on Aug. 22, where Aviagen CEO Jan Henriksen welcomed and extended his appreciation to Quitman Mayor Nancy Dennard, other state and local government officials, and many who played a significant role in establishing the new facility.
The 78,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility becomes the 9th and largest in Aviagen’s US fleet, with the ability to set 1.1 million eggs per week. The company has invested $28 million in the Quitman hatchery, which will result in the creation of up to 100 new jobs for the local workforce.
The hatchery’s significant production capacity is made possible using 80 Jamesway Platinum 2.0 next-generation incubators and 56 Jamesway Platinum next-generation hatchers. Modern environmental and hygiene-control features ensure the maximum health, welfare and biosecurity for the hatching eggs and chicks.
Another highlight that represents the latest in hatchery innovation are chick storage rooms by HatchTech. While chicks wait in these rooms before transport, they are kept comfortable with the ideal temperature, humidity, airflow and other environmental conditions – another measure to optimize chick health and welfare. Aviagen’s Sallisaw, Okla., hatchery also uses this technology.
