Michigan Thread - all are welcome!

[HollyDuckFarmer]

@gladahmae How are you poking your holes into the bottom? Last year I heated a screwdriver on my gas stove, then poked it thru. Tried that again this year and it didn't go as easily as I remembered as before.

 

[Brennigan]

I've been researching chickens and coops since December thinking I would get my chicks in early February to start this amazing journey! This long winter prolonged the tractor coop build and has been such a disappointment in beginning this whole process; but this thread really is quite hopeful if you think about it: chicks being born, eggs to look forward to, and the days far and few between where the chickens are happy to be outside. Thank you all for contributing to this thread!

--> and for those about to get hit with another 4-6 inches (yep, that's me too!)...

 

[annagarret]

Hi Everyone,

We are looking to start our flock here in the suburbs. The breed we thought fit us best are the New Hampshire reds. We wondered if anyone has any chicks hatching soon or if anyone notices at TSC there are chicks for sale. We are looking for 4-5 chicks which have to be female due to the rules of Farmington Hills. Willing to drive to pick them up.

Thank you!
James

Welcome! How exciting for you!! I have never had New Hampshire reds. They must be cold hardy? Check CL also for chicks.

good luck...keep us posted!

 

[annagarret]

Brennigan are you going to get your chicks this month still? I have kept them in our mud room for about 8 weeks with no problems. What kind do you want?

I did let my hens out for a few hours before the storm comes........

 

[Brennigan]

Brennigan are you going to get your chicks this month still? I have kept them in our mud room for about 8 weeks with no problems. What kind do you want?

I was looking to get only three chicks: a buff orpington, a silver laced wyandotte, and an ambers links (still debating on that last one). We have two cats, so I'm trying to think of a way to keep the chicks safe, the house safe (with the heating lamp), and the cats not too annoying. I saw someone put their tote of chicks in a dog kennel to keep the cats/dogs out? Thinking maybe that might be an option...

 

[annagarret]

That's a great idea!

 

[uchytil]

Cool. How much wood do you think it takes to reduce 50 gallons of sap?

Let me get back to you. I did about 300 gallons last year. I usually cut a few cords for the following year. It's really about keeping the fire extremely hot. What fun is to have various pieces like oak, maple, cherry (my favorite), poplar, and pine. Keep the pieces split thin to maximize heat output per short time. The boil should be very rapid with heavy steam output. The trick is not letting the sap turn thick and burn, or crystal. Maple is thinner than most neophytes realize. Hey, it's NOT Log Cabin, lol.

 

[RaZ]

I have an Excel chart of the BTUs for different wood types. I can send it to anyone who wants it.

It's geared for home heating so I'm not sure how it relates in an outdoor burn situation but I know some woods are better for high heat than others.

 

[annagarret]

Anyone want to leave with me before the storm comes??

 

[chickwhispers]

@RaZ I'll be in GC Wednesday. Will you have any syrup ready? I'll be glad to take one of the 50 gal drums full off your hands!