Are you interested in raising chickens in your backyard for fun and fresh eggs? Whether you’re a novice or looking to expand your knowledge, the UF/IFAS Extension Osceola County is offering a comprehensive in-person class that covers everything you need to know about backyard chicken keeping. From selecting the right breeds to designing coops and maintaining chicken health, this workshop will provide valuable insight into raising happy and healthy chickens.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025
- Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. EST
- Location: Peghorn Nature Park, 2101 Peghorn Way, St. Cloud, FL 34769
- Cost: $7 per household (one ticket covers all household members)
- Registration: Call Jessica Sullivan at 321-697-3000 for additional registration options.
Why Keep Chickens?
Raising chickens offers numerous benefits. They’re not only a source of fresh eggs but also provide the opportunity for a rewarding hobby. Keeping chickens in your backyard can be an engaging activity for the whole family. Plus, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of knowing where your eggs come from and the joy of watching your chickens thrive.
What Will You Learn in This Class?
This hands-on class, designed by UF/IFAS Extension Osceola County, covers essential topics for anyone interested in keeping chickens, including:
- Chicken Breeds
Learn about the different breeds of chickens, their characteristics, and which ones are best suited for egg production or fun backyard companions. Understanding the traits of various breeds will help you make informed decisions when choosing the right chickens for your family. - Raising Chicks
Learn the basics of raising chicks from the very beginning. This section covers everything from the care requirements of chicks to how to ensure they grow up healthy and strong. - Designing Coops and Pens
Discover how to design and build coops and pens that provide a safe and comfortable home for your chickens. You’ll learn how to plan for proper ventilation, space, and protection from predators, ensuring your chickens stay happy and secure. - Chicken Health and Nutrition
Keeping your chickens healthy is vital to their well-being and egg production. This part of the class will cover nutrition, common chicken health issues, and preventative care to help you keep your flock in top condition.
Certification for Urban Chicken Programs
This class also meets the educational requirement for the St. Cloud Backyard Chicken Keeping Program, as well as other urban chicken programs across Central Florida. Participants will receive a Certificate of Participation, which is essential for those wishing to keep chickens in urban areas with specific regulations.
Accessibility
If you have any accessibility requests, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension at least 7 days in advance of the program to allow for appropriate consideration of your needs.
Why You Should Attend
- Expert Instruction: The class is presented by the UF/IFAS Extension Osceola County, a trusted source of agricultural knowledge. You’ll learn from experts in the field who are dedicated to supporting urban and backyard farming initiatives.
- Comprehensive Content: Whether you’re new to raising chickens or looking to refine your skills, this class provides all the information you need to get started and succeed.
- Hands-On Learning: The class covers both theoretical and practical aspects of chicken keeping, ensuring that you have the tools and knowledge to build a healthy and productive chicken coop.
- Certificate of Participation: Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a certificate that meets local educational requirements for keeping chickens in your area.
If you’ve ever considered raising chickens in your backyard or want to expand your knowledge of chicken keeping, this class is the perfect opportunity. Whether you’re raising chickens for egg production or simply for the fun of it, this hands-on class will provide you with the essential skills to successfully raise and care for your flock. Join us on January 25 at Peghorn Nature Park in St. Cloud, FL, and start your chicken-keeping journey today!
For registration and more information, call Jessica Sullivan at 321-697-3000 or visit the UF/IFAS Extension Osceola County website. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to become a knowledgeable and successful backyard chicken keeper!