Poultry Processing Equipment Rental Program
Poultry Processing Equipment Rental Program
NABC has been working with local farmers to overcome processing obstacles that are faced when trying to expand farming operations. The issue of where and how to process product is usually an obstacle for new value-added enterprises. In order to meet growing demand for poultry processing and to help reach the market for fresh, local, poultry products in our communities we have purchased Featherman processing equipment for rent starting the spring of 2008.
This equipment can be used in conjunction with the WSDA Temporary Permit to Slaughter Pasture Raised Chickens for on farm sales or for home consumption of poultry. It is available for a rental fee of $25 per day to all farmers in the 5 counties we serve (Island, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, & Whatcom). Demand for the equipment is high so we recommend reserving equipment for your slaughter dates in advance.
Equipment Checkout Agreement
Availability Calendar
Web Resources
The Equipment
- Featherman Pro Automatic Picker and Featherman Scalder allow for efficient harvest of farm raised poultry. The equipment can handle birds ranging from 3 to 50 lbs and is limited to around 72 birds/hour depending on size. The picker and scalder are easily transportable in the back of a small pickup and require minimal clean-up.
- For more information about the equipment visit www.schaferfarmsnaturalmeats.com .
WSDA Temporary Permit to Slaughter Pasture Raised Chickens
- A special, temporary permit issued by the WSDA allows for the slaughter and preparation of one thousand or fewer pastured chickens in a calendar year by the agricultural producer of the chickens for the sale of whole raw chickens by the producer directly to the ultimate consumer at the producer's farm, and for such sale. Such activities shall not be conducted without the permit. However, if the activities are conducted under such a permit, the activities are exempted from any other licensing requirements.
- Fee for permit is $75.00 annually.
- Application and more information is available through the WSDA or visit www.agr.wa.gov .
Marketing your Pasture Raised Chickens
- Contact the NABC for assistance in setting up a marketing strategy for your chickens. Many established producers ask customers to pre-order birds at the beginning of the season; some even ask for a deposit with each order. We can help determine the best strategy for your situation.