More snow threatens Delaware chicken houses

Delaware state officials say there’s a real threat for poultry houses. Some have already collapsed because of heavy snow on the roof.

CORRECTION: A former version of this story wrongly identified the number of broiler chickens produced in2008 in Delaware.  The correct number is 242,900,000. / /

One of Delaware’s biggest industries faces a significant threat from more snow.  The Delaware Department of Agriculture is warning poultry farmers about the danger posed by snow piled on top of their chicken houses.  Agriculture Secretary Ed Kee says there has already been several reports of roofs collapsing because of the snow over the weekend.

Farmers are being urged to get heat into the attic of their poultry houses to melt the snow on the roof.  They should also check to make sure the ventilation system is clear of snow.

In 2008, Delaware farmers produced more than 240 million broiler chickens.  The total value of those chickens, $773 million.