Because we are committed to experiential learning (chickens
make great teachers);
Because we are committed to biological diversity;
Because we are concerned about animal welfare in agriculture;
Because our chickens eat insects, weeds, weed seeds, and
fertilize the soil, in addition to providing us with fresh eggs.
Free-Range Chicken Demonstration Site SOF 2006
The
free-range chicken operation saw many milestones this year. In
June the chickens were inspected by AALAC as part of MSU’s
overall comprehensive review for animal welfare and care. Our
system passed with high marks, the presiding veterinarian commented
that, “It looks like these birds won the lottery.”
As part of this process we now have a SOF chicken standard operating
procedure and protocol on file for the chickens. In addition we
have an approved animal usage form on file with the office of
MSU Animal Use and Care. In August the farm team constructed a
new 18’ X 20’ poly hoop coop on a skid. This coop
is a dramatic improvement from the previous wooden coop structure.
The coop is easily moved by tractor to fresh pasture and allows
the birds greater freedom of movement while indoors, increased
perch space, and light/heat infiltration. This year the student
farmers were witness to our first broody hen and hatching out
of our own chicks. From this clutch of 15 eggs, 6 hens were added
to our flock. Six young hens (Cochin, Barred Rock, Salmon Favarole,
and Rhode Island Red) were purchased to increase the flock size
in August. On average the flock lays 5-7 dozen eggs per week.
The eggs are offered to our CSA members in exchange for a recommended
donation of $4 that goes toward the purchase of feed.
The
Chicken Project
The
free-range chicken operation saw many milestones this year. In
June the chickens were inspected by AALAC as part of MSU’s
overall comprehensive review for animal welfare and care. Our
system passed with high marks, the presiding veterinarian commented
that, “It looks like these birds won the lottery.”
As part of this process we now have a SOF chicken standard operating
procedure and protocol on file for the chickens. In addition we
have an approved animal usage form on file with the office of
MSU Animal Use and Care. In August the farm team constructed a
new 18’ X 20’ poly hoop coop on a skid. This coop
is a dramatic improvement from the previous wooden coop structure.
The coop is easily moved by tractor to fresh pasture and allows
the birds greater freedom of movement while indoors, increased
perch space, and light/heat infiltration. This year the student
farmers were witness to our first broody hen and hatching out
of our own chicks. From this clutch of 15 eggs, 6 hens were added
to our flock. Six young hens (Cochin, Barred Rock, Salmon Favarole,
and Rhode Island Red) were purchased to increase the flock size
in August. On average the flock lays 5-7 dozen eggs per week.
The eggs are offered to our CSA members in exchange for a recommended
donation of $4 that goes toward the purchase of feed. 
