Newbie from Michigan

Hi everyone,

I'm a newbie from the Michigan Thumb. I grew up on a farm not far from my current home. We raised meat birds and laying hens for most of my childhood. My husband and I bought property and built a house a few years ago and it was always my intention to have chickens again...but finnishing the house, building the horse barn, and two young children just did not leave much time. After the crash of the economy last year I am now out of a job, and have plenty of time to get started, finally!!!! I was so excited to find this site.

My goal is too provide as much of my families food supply by either raising it myself, or buying from other local farmers. I also plan to sell locally, and have had a great deal of interest. My largest concern is staying within the government guidlines. I have found a local mentor that has offered to help me. YEAH!!

Last year I doubled my garden space and added raised beds. I hope to increase it again this year, and hopefully have most of the kinks worked out. I also added an herb garden last Mothers Day. I produced much more than my small family could use fresh, and plan to dry this years excess for year round use. My plans this year are to have a small laying flock (6-12 birds), raise and sell meat birds, raise a few Thanksgiving Turkeys, and purchase a breeding pair of rabbits. I also hope to add a few Ducks into the mix in the fall or next spring. In other words, I'll have my hands full!!

Ellen
Zephyr Creek Farms