February 13, 2025

Oklahoma, US-based MBK Farms recognised for environmental excellence by USPOULTRY 

 

MBK Farms in Colcord, Oklahoma, the United States, was one of three farms across the United States to receive the US Poultry & Egg Association's (USPOULTRY) Family Farm Environmental Excellence Award during the 2025 International Production & Processing Expo in Atlanta, Georgia, the United States.

USPOULTRY sponsors the annual awards for exemplary environmental stewardship by family farmers engaged in poultry and egg production.

Applicants were rated in several categories: nutrient management planning, implementation of novel sustainability practices, community involvement, innovative litter or manure management techniques, and participation in education or outreach programmes. A team of environmental professionals from universities, regulatory agencies, and state poultry associations reviewed applications and conducted farm visits.

Keith and Jerri Mitchell raise turkeys for Cargill and have a total bird capacity of 22,000 per flock. Litter management is a crucial and significant step in the poultry process, and the Mitchells ensure they prioritise this aspect to maintain a healthy environment for their birds.

The Mitchells completed their nutrient management plan in 2023 and utilise windrowing as a litter and environmental management tool to help reduce its moisture content and ammonia levels while also helping to control the level of bacteria. Litter is tested annually to measure its nutrient concentrations. When appropriate and according to their nutrient management plan, the litter is utilised on the farm's 500 acres to grow forage and enhance the soil's fertility.

MBK Farms include several acres of pasture, wooded areas and a spring-fed creek with a multitude of wildlife. The Mitchells have designated these areas as safe zones, which ensures no hunting or development will occur. These conservation efforts provide a haven for wildlife that live on their farm to thrive.

- USPOULTRY