Biosecurity & Pathogen Mitigation Protocol
Carver Bio-Technologies LLC
Purpose: To outline the rigorous standards and "Kill Step" procedures used by Carver Bio-Technologies LLC to eliminate the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and other poultry pathogens during the collection, transport, and processing of poultry litter.
1. Thermal Inactivation (The "Kill Step")
Our industrial drying and pelletizing process utilizes controlled thermal exposure that far exceeds USDA and APHIS standards for virus inactivation.
Target Temperature: Material is heated to a minimum of 160F (71C)
Efficacy: Research confirms that HPAI is inactivated at temperatures as low as 131F. Our process provides a significant safety margin to ensure 100% pathogen elimination in the finished organic fertilizer.
2. Transportation & Site Integrity
To prevent the mechanical transmission of virus particles between farm sites:
Dedicated Loads: Trucks perform "Point-to-Point" hauling. We do not mix litter from multiple farm sites in a single load.
Vehicle Disinfection: All transport vehicles undergo mandatory tire and undercarriage disinfection using an EPA-approved virucidal (e.g., Virkon S) before entering and upon exiting any poultry production site.
Load Containment: All raw material is transported in fully tarped or enclosed trailers to prevent the release of dust or litter during transit.
3. Facility "Clean-to-Dirty" Separation
Our Lexington facility is designed with strict internal biosecurity zones:
Receiving Zone: Raw litter is offloaded in a designated, enclosed "Dirty Zone."
Processing Zone: The thermal "Kill Step" acts as the biological barrier.
Load-Out Zone: Finished, sanitized pellets are stored and loaded in a separate "Clean Zone" to prevent cross-contamination from raw dust.
4. Continuous Monitoring
Carver Bio-Technologies LLC maintains digital logs of processing temperatures and vehicle sanitation schedules. These records are available for review by partner growers, the Georgia Department of Agriculture, and environmental health officials.
Statement of Commitment:
Carver Bio-Technologies LLC recognizes that biosecurity is the foundation of a healthy poultry industry. We are committed to being a "Bio-Safe" partner for the growers of Oglethorpe, Madison, and Jackson counties.