Chicks thrive in biomass ventilation system

Freedom Food member Nick Bragg has farmed indoor chicken for more than seven years on the enchantingly named Frogmary Green Farm near South Petherton, Somerset.

When Nick looked to expand his production and introduce a large new shed in 2009, he looked at various way to make the operation as efficient and environmentally-friendly as possible.

A chat with a ventilation specialist, who suggested against traditional gas boiler heating, led to him investing in a new design using a biomass – or wood-fuelled – system. The biomass boiler heats water, which then passes through a network of heat coils and circulates dry air throughout the sheds.

This option was particularly attractive because I could use natural wood fuel from my own farm and neighbouring estates,

Nick told Focus.

“The real surprise and bonus was the improvement in chick welfare. They really do thrive on it, growing faster in the first few weeks – a sure sign they are happy and healthy – and we certainly don’t need to ventilate as much as the traditionally-powered sheds as there is a huge reduction in the carbon dioxide produced.

“I’m sure the welfare benefits all revolve around the air quality produced, which is constant and dryer than conventional gas-powered heating – the litter doesn’t get damp – in fact, it’s more like your ideal home central heating, cosy and warm. My other two sheds, which haven’t been converted yet, but will in the future, just don’t feel as good.”

There are financial benefits too, says Nick. “The system is certainly not the cheapest option but the savings are impressive. I would estimate that my savings compared with gas heaters is £90 per day during the brooding period and I expect to get the whole installation cost back within five to seven years.

“I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to other farmers considering an upgrade. Don’t be put off by the investment, check out the availability of grants and look at the payback over time with the environmental and welfare benefits.”