Embracing Sustainable Living with Homestead Chickens at Jones Family Farm & Ranch
When we, Erik and Brian Jones, settled into our 160-acre ranch in Amador County, we brought with us a vision of sustainable living and a desire to connect more deeply with our food sources. Raising chickens has become a cornerstone of this mission, offering numerous benefits to our birds, our family, and our community.
Our Journey to Sustainable Farming
Our venture into homestead chicken raising is more than just about producing eggs and meat. It's about embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes sustainability, animal welfare, and connection to our food sources. This approach not only results in superior quality poultry but also aligns with our commitment to environmental stewardship and community values.
Meet Our Flock
Our homestead is home to a diverse and vibrant flock of chickens. Here's a breakdown of our feathered friends:
Egg Production: We maintain 20 hens and 2 roosters dedicated to laying eggs. Our flock includes Bantams, Barred Rocks, Golden Buffs, and other heritage breeds, providing a beautiful array of egg colors and characteristics.
Meat Production: We raise about 25 to 35 meat birds per batch, processing them 3-4 times a year. This approach ensures a consistent supply of fresh, high-quality chicken for our family and customers throughout the year.
Happy Chickens, Healthy Poultry
At Jones Family Farm & Ranch, we believe that happy chickens make for the healthiest and most delicious poultry. Here's how we ensure our birds live their best lives:
Spacious Living Quarters: Our chickens enjoy a very large, protected run that provides safety while allowing ample room to roam and express natural behaviors.
Mobile Adventures: We use a mobile coop and run system, giving our chickens new environments to explore. These "chicken vacations" keep them active, engaged, and stimulated.
Free-Range Foraging: Our chickens have access to open spaces where they can hunt for insects, peck at plants, and enjoy a varied, natural diet.
Protection from Predators: While we encourage free-ranging, we also prioritize our chickens' safety with secure coops and vigilant monitoring.
Clean Living Environment: We maintain hygienic living quarters to prevent pest infestations and keep our birds healthy.
Balanced Diet: In addition to their foraging, we provide our chickens with a high-quality feed, ensuring they receive all the nutrients they need. For our laying hens, we ensure plenty of calcium in their diet to support strong eggshell production.
This approach not only benefits their well-being but also results in poultry that's free from common health issues associated with overcrowded conditions.
Stay tuned for our next post, where we'll dive into the superior quality of our home-raised poultry and the environmental benefits of our farming practices!
