MacFarlane Pheasants 2006 Seminar and Beyond

MacFarlane Pheasants, Inc. is a family owned and operated company that has been in business since 1929 and is presently under the direction of Bill MacFarlane. Bill’s vision for his company includes “that we strive to be the most progressive and innovative pheasant producer. “ MacFarlane Pheasants, Inc. provides products to three distinct and separate niche markets – live mature pheasants, day old chicks and food products. Since 1980, this company has increased its gross sales from just over $350,000 to over $6.1 million in 2004, by utilizing the most current technology available to maintain its position as the most innovative company in the game bird business. In 2005, the company was awarded the “2005 WI Family Business of the Year, Small Company, Grand Award” which was sponsored by Smith & Gesteland, a Madison-based CPA and consulting firm, Associated Bank, and the Madison-based law firm of Dewitt Ross & Stevens; in 2006, MacFarlane’s received “The 2006 Business of the Year - 50 Employees or Less Award” from Forward Janesville for their leadership in Janesville and the surrounding community.

A pioneering event held by MacFarlane Pheasants bi-annually for the past 10 years is the “International Pheasant Seminar”. This seminar is directed to owners and operators of live game bird businesses, in which MacFarlane Pheasant’s literally ‘opens their doors’ to the attendees to teach them how and why the procedures followed at MacFarlane’s are important and should be practiced within the industry. The information presented stems from the research done jointly by several Universities and MacFarlane’s in biosecurity, feeding practices, brooding practices and general management. It is presented in a series of lectures as well as on premise tours and hands on training labs. MacFarlane’s resources are then made available to all participants of the seminar. Why does MacFarlane Pheasants do this? By teaching those who purchase MacFarlane’s pheasants how to best raise their pheasants in the most natural setting that is both humane and safe, MacFarlane’s is helping the participants become more profitable and heighten their awareness of issues and practices that affect the entire industry. It also provides an excellent forum for exchange of ideas and information – while building relationships and networking within the industry, not to mention ‘word of mouth’ marketing for all those involved.

Who attends these seminars? Anyone involved in the game bird industry – many of whom are MacFarlane’s competition! The past attendees have come from Canada, England, Ireland and over 15 states within the United States. Here’s what some of the attendees have said about the seminar just concluded:

“Thank you for inviting us to another GREAT Seminar. We learned so much, again! We came home with so many new ideas on biosecurity; we don't know where to start. We are getting better every year at what we do because of what we have learned at this and past seminars. Thanks again - we’re already looking forward to the next Seminar!

Jenny Krug-Cooley
Krug’s Northwoods Game Birds, Inc.
Medford, Wisconsin

“I was so impressed with everyone and their attitudes, that I can see why MacFarlane’s is # 1 in everything they do. I hope to see everyone in 2008 as this is a must attend event!”

Rick Wood-Samman
Dirt Willy Game Bird Farm & Hatchery
Alberta Canada

"I had a real eye opener about your whole operation and the seminar was very informative. Everything went superbly from our side and your staff is a credit to you and your farm. I would especially like to thank you, for your hospitality and for looking after us so well - the food and company were just great. You will see me again.

Once again thank you so much."

Paul Claxton
Shadewell Estate Co. LTD
Norfolk, England

Not only does our company lead by example, the owner - Bill MacFarlane - also leads by example. He is currently the President Elect of the North American Gamebird Association (naga.org) and has previously held other officer positions with this same organization. Recently, Bill and his wife Phoebe were awarded “Volunteers of the Year - Geraldine Hedberg Tocqueville Society Award” by the United Way of Northern Rock County where they are actively involved in many community organizations that support youth as well as the elderly. Bill also actively supports his employees whom he encourages to participate within community and business organizations in the same manner as he does. Beyond the local community, Bill mentors other men and business owners.