Table 13. The EfFect of Flock Size on Feeding Efficiency Under Two Methods 



Similar conclusions probably also would result from a detailed study of 

 pen size and number of pens in sequence. These considerations again em- 

 phasize the unit-by-unit approach to achieving maximum efficiency in the 

 grain-feeding operations. The "best" method for the particular farm, and 

 what degree of mechanization will be used, will be dependent upon size 

 and sequence considerations, feeding methods, individual operator's effic- 

 iency and aptitudes, existing farm facilities, and financial position, as well 

 as fixed and operating costs for various combinations. A special time-motion 

 study can be carried out for each individual plant plus a series of financial 

 budgets of various production alternatives in order to uncover optimum or- 

 ganization. 



In Table 14 data on time requirements in feeding laying hens are 

 summarized for a number of categories. These data should be regarded as 

 relative rather than absolute since they are not adjusted to comparable 

 unit size, they include various feeding methods, and are derived from op- 

 erator's estimates rather than actual time studies. 



The averages in Table 14 show a progressive decrease in feeding time 

 per 100 layers as grain supplies for the feeder are more systematically lo- 

 cated, and as the degree of mechanization increases. From 8.0 man minutes 

 daily per 100 layers, with scattered individual houses, time requirements in 

 feeding declined to 2.7 man minutes with systematically-located grain rooms 

 on each floor of multiple-story houses, but feed carried into pens by hand. 

 A similar setup to the latter, but with pens served by carrier, indicated 

 time requirements in feeding of 2.2 man minutes daily. 



Data collected pursuant to preparation of Table 14 do not indicate 

 any compelling reasons why the installation of bulk feed as such will ma- 

 terially decrease feeding time. Actually many time savings can be realized 

 on some farms by rearrangement of facilities for handling grain in bags. 

 Given a good arrangement for handling and feeding grain in bags, the net 

 decrease in feeding time by conversion to bulk feed is likely to be small. 



In Table 14, daily time requirements per 100 layers were 2.1 man 

 minutes where bulk feed was available by chute in each large pen, but car- 



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