Nebraska Poultry Newsletter - Spring 2026

Brock Young, an FFA student from Wilbur/Clatonia did a small research project last summer with University of Nebraska-Lincoln poultry advisement and help with resources. We recently interviewed Brock about his experience and tidbits to share with other students venturing into youth poultry projects and research.

What were your goals for the project?

My goal was to determine if Blue River Layer feed was the best local feed option for producers by evaluating cost efficiency and performance of laying hens fed two different diets. In addition, I was very excited to be exposed to the university poultry system, technical research, tools, and procedures to conduct a real research trial of my own.

What did you do?

I fed two different diets to 36 White Leghorn Hens for eight weeks plus 10 days. Two randomized groups were housed in my school’s animal lab. Daily feed, water, and egg production were monitored closely. I collected eggs from each group every other week for quality evaluations in the Nebraska Egg Lab.

What did you learn?

I learned that it takes a lot of time and commitment to conduct a research trial. It was interesting to quantify egg quality using shell strength and albumin height. I liked the variety of being with the animals and being in the lab working with instruments. I also learned how important it is to be organized with a plan. 

Do you have recommendations for other FFA/4-H youth wanting to do a research Project?

I suggest anyone looking to conduct a research project to start with a good plan and document everything. Ask for help from others who can share advice and tips. Mentally prepare yourself for the commitment to see it through. It was challenging but worth it in the end.