Start Your Backyard Chicken Flock: Free Class and Community Talk

February 8th, 2025, at 2:30 PM at Hole In The Wall Bagels

Good Tern Co-op is thrilled to host the second annual backyard chicken class in partnership with Fern Hill Farm! This free event is perfect for anyone interested in starting a small flock of chickens—whether for fresh eggs, sustainable living, natural tick control, or simply for the joy of it. Clement Hill, owner of Fern Hill Farm, and Fern Axelson, animal caretaker, began their backyard flock with six chickens in Rockland three years ago through their own journey with health and sustainable living. Since then, they’ve expanded their operation to Thomaston, adding ducks, goats, rabbits and gardens. While not experts, Clement and Fern are proud of their hands-on experience in maintaining a healthy flock and are passionate about helping others feel prepared and confident to start their own. Attendees will gain practical insights, hear firsthand experiences, connect with other local chicken keepers, and have the opportunity to ask questions about keeping backyard chickens. 

Class Highlights:

• The Basics of Backyard Chickens: Why and how to start your own flock

• Cost and Care Expectations: Housing, feeding, and daily maintenance

•  Starting Decisions: Tips for breed selection, coop designs, and understanding local codes

• Seasonal Challenges/Health: Guidance on raising chickens year-round in Maine and common chicken first aid issues to prepare for. 

Cost: Free and open to the public with registration

Snow Date: February 9th, 2:30-4 PM

Location: Hole in the Wall Bagels, 754 Main St, Rockland, ME 04841