I would like to start my own breeder/small hatchery operation. Is there anyone in the SE USA that would let me come and look at your operation and ask you 1000 questions? I want to specialize in heavy breed-brown egg layers. I need help with layout, how to schedule, managing large incubators etc. I am a teacher, so I am off March 15-22 and would make the trip to you if you are willing to help me learn the ropes. I know the basics and have started collecting my stock, just need some good expert advice maybe about what to do and not to do. I live in Northwest TN, but can go about anywhere in a week. Beside I need to get away for the break.
I would try Ideal or Cackle Hatchery, but I would imagine both will charge a consultation fee for thier information if they are even willing to do it. I would just do as much research as I can and start very small and grow from there. I think trial and error is the best learning tool. Good Luck
Quote:to bad we could not be partners. I am going to start mine up in a few years. I wish you alot of luck and hope everything works out for you
I once asked if I could come and see a hatchery, and was told no due to biosecurity reasons. That was probably only partially true, but it made sense to me. There are some smaller ones that might be willing to answer questions via email. I'll PM you one that's here in the SE.
I don't think competition is a bad thing. I think that someone who loves what they do is more than happy to share their knowledge with others, just like we do here on BYC. There are enough of us chicken lovers to keep alot more hatcheries going, but only if the hatcheries are good ones. Reputation is all, and one dissatisfied customer can be killer for the business. Sharing knowledge is a good thing, so keep it up. Besides, if you look long enough, its all written down somewhere anyway. It's just easier to share it.
Although there is no substitute for hands on, I am sure a few of us here would be more than happy to correspond via email and answer what we can that way.
There is a couple here in Statesville that is starting a hatchery. I don't know how far along they are at this time. I bought black and red sex links from them back in December. A very nice lady, her name is Bobbi Jo, but I don't know her last name. I'll pass along any info I get. Someone here may know of her, too. We do need a good hatchery nearby.