Backyard chickens have become much more common in recent years as more families turn to raising their own food. Chickens and other domestic poultry provide both fresh eggs and protein-rich, lean meat. Additionally they require relatively less land and have a lower cost of production when compared to other species of livestock. Excess birds and eggs can be sold to others who have an interest in locally-produced foods. When managed and marketed correctly, small scale poultry production has the potential to add value to both your table and your pocket book!
The UF/IFAS Lake County Extension Service has partnered with the Lake County Library System to provide Lake County residents with the opportunity to learn about the ins and outs of small flock management from local Extension educators. A free class will be offered Tuesday February 28th at noon in the Umatilla library and again at 6 p.m. in the Cooper Memorial library in Clermont. This seminar is the fourth in a yearlong Small Farms seminar series designed to introduce Lake County land owners to the opportunities available in agriculture.
Topics to be covered during this free, hour and a half long seminar include: hatching out and brooding chicks, predation prevention, health and nutrition, housing, regulations of the sale of meat and eggs, and marketing guidelines.
Get started raising chickens, or add to your existing flock, by visiting the Sanford Farm Swap Meet. You'll always find a wide variety of poultry for sale ranging from chicks to adult birds. If you don't have the space for a flock of your own, you can buy farm-fresh eggs or meat birds. Best of all, you'll meet the farmers who raised the livestock, and they are always available to answer all your questions.
For more information on the Small Farm Seminar Series or on the Small Scale Poultry Production class please contact Lake County Livestock Agent, Meg Brew at 352-343-4101.
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