Big Red Biosecurity Program

The Big Red Biosecurity Program provides education about biosecurity specific to poultry. The information will help large- and small-scale poultry producers evaluate the biosecurity risks specific to their operations and establish a biosecurity program to mitigate the risks and protect their flock against the introduction and spread of disease.

The Big Red Biosecurity Program was developed by a poultry veterinarian and professor in the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. The program covers all poultry—chickens, turkeys, gamebirds, etc.)—and all sizes of farms (commercial, niche market or backyard production).

A poultry operation that follows biosecurity best management practices generally has a healthier flock and fewer incidence of disease.

Yes. The Big Red Biosecurity Program was specifically designed to apply to every type of poultry —chickens, turkeys, gamebirds, etc.— and every size of operation (commercial, niche market, backyard).

Yes. We encourage everyone who works with or is around poultry to watch the training modules to understand why adhering to a biosecurity program is important. Everyone who understands biosecurity can be part of the strategy to safeguard your poultry.

Yes. We can provide a full-day workshop for groups of five or more who want to complete the Biosecurity Training Certificate option. The workshop includes the biosecurity training modules and the assessment required to earn the Biosecurity Training Certificate.

The fee for a group workshop varies depending on the size of the group and location. If you're interested in learning more, please email the Big Red Biosecurity Program .

The information provided by Big Red Biosecurity Program covers the 14 biosecurity principles of the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP). After you complete our training modules, you should have a strong understanding of each principle and be well prepared for the NPIP Biosecurity Audit.

Our program is not affiliated with or endorsed by the NPIP. Participating in the Big Red Biosecurity Program does not guarantee passing an NPIP Biosecurity Audit.

Learn more about NPIP>>

The Big Red Biosecurity Program has three components. You choose what fits your needs.

1. Training modules available online.
2. A biosecurity training certificate program that builds upon the information presented in the training modules and is specific to the type of poultry you raise. This option offers extra preparation for those producers who wish to participate in the NPIP Biosecurity Audit.
3. Biosecurity Program Evaluation/Audit to help you evaluate biosecurity strategies specific to your operation.

There is no cost to view the training modules, which are available 24/7 online.

The Biosecurity Training Certificate  has a $25 fee.

We are always happy to answer questions. Please email Dr. Don Reynolds, UNL poultry veterinarian and director of the Big Red Biosecurity Program.

On the Resources page is a section with links to a number of templates and tools to help you develop a biosecurity program or plan for your operation. Since many farms raise more than poultry, we've included links to information specific to a range of situations.