CRE Program Launches Poultry Extension Initiative to Boost Local Egg Production
By: Steven Young-Uhk
The Cooperative Research and Extension (CRE) program of the College of Micronesia-FSM (COM-FSM) has launched a poultry extension program aimed at enhancing local egg production across the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). This initiative addresses the challenges identified in the 2019 Market Study in FSM, which highlighted the potential for local production of various imported goods, including poultry, at competitive prices with organic value. However, numerous constraints have historically impeded local production, including limited information, lack of improved breeds, high cost of feeds, dependence on imports, unreliable shipping schedules, inadequate equipment, and resource scarcity. Poultry products, particularly eggs, exemplify these challenges.
According to available data, FSM imports over $1 million worth of eggs annually, with states heavily relying on imports to meet the high local demand. This dependence has elevated egg prices for consumers due to the lack of local alternatives, creating a lucrative market for imported eggs to capitalize on unsatisfied demand. The CRE's poultry extension program aims to develop sustainable local egg production to meet this demand.
As a first step in this initiative, the CRE has imported high-quality Rhode Island Red and Barred Plymouth Rock breeds to all islands. These pure breeds are known for their predictability in growth rates, egg production, disease resistance, and other traits. This consistency is vital for farmers to plan production cycles, manage resources efficiently, and reliably meet market demands. Farmers can align their production with market needs and consumer preferences by selecting these specialized breeds, maximizing profitability.
The CRE program will guide local farmers in transitioning to active commercial producers to address the constraints hindering successful poultry production. The CRE staff will raise chicks for about three months before distributing them to trained farmers for further raising and breeding. This hands-on approach will ensure farmers are well-prepared to manage their flocks effectively.
In May, the CRE conducted a training program in Yap, where farmers received comprehensive training in poultry farming. Upon completion, each farmer received seven chickens for further raising and breeding. Similar training sessions are planned across all states to ensure widespread participation and impact.
Increasing local egg production presents numerous opportunities. This dedicated extension program is crucial to empowering local farmers and unlocking opportunities such as enhanced food security, improved livelihoods, promotion of healthy living, affordable food, and reduced imports. The program's impact will extend beyond poultry production, aiming to enhance food security and livelihoods through increased local availability and empowerment. Through this initiative, COM-FSM is committed to fostering agricultural development, supporting local farmers, and contributing to the community's overall well-being.
Please contact us for more information on the CRE's poultry extension program (Yap: 350-4319; Chuuk: 330-2913/2911; CTEC/PNI: 320-5731/6468; Kosrae: 370-3191/3192).
