Backyard Chicken Basics (at CGS)

Dreaming of having chickens? Do you want a supply of fresh eggs -- and rich garden compost -- from your own backyard? Would you like to add a chicken companion to your family? During this IN-PERSON class, you'll receive detailed information on how to make your dreams a reality. The instructor, Sharon Maish, will make sure you are prepared for this endeavor. If you're serious about keeping chickens, do it the RIGHT way. Come and learn what you need to know about raising happy, healthy backyard hens! Class Topics: > Am I ready? What is involved in chicken keeping? > Living space requirements (coop and run) > Choosing breeds that are right for you > Basic small chick care > Laying boxes > Nutrition and feeding of laying hens > Hen behavior and the pecking order > Laying behavior, seasons, and light effects on laying This 2-hour class takes place at the Columbus Garden School. Sharon will bring some of her laying hens for you to see and handle. You'll also receive numerous handouts regarding the selection and care of backyard chickens. Class is limited to 12 students. ** Special pricing: Sign up 2 or more students at the same time and save! It's a great way for friends or family members to take this workshop together. ** INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Maish and her husband Greg own a 62-acre farm south of Columbus, Ohio. They raise much of their own food, keeping poultry, pigs, and beef cattle. Sharon breeds show-quality speckled Sussex chickens and Narragansett turkeys, and has raised 40+ breeds of chickens over the years. She was an ODA-registered feed manufacturer, and makes feed for all their livestock. Sharon and Greg use regenerative farm practices as well as maintain 30 acres of Ohio prairie and wetland on their property. (You can follow Sharon at www.facebook.com/MaishFarmPreserve.)