Frequently asked questions

We feed a non-GMO, non-medicated ration throughout every stage of our poultry program from hatch day through to processing or maturity. Our chicks are started on a 21% protein crumble from day one until approximately four weeks of age. At that point, they transition to a 17.5% grower crumble, which is fed until processing for birds intended for the freezer. Pullets destined for our breeding and breakfast flock are gradually transitioned to an 18% layer pellet approximately one week before the onset of lay. Free-choice granite grit and oyster shell are provided to support proper digestion and shell quality. ​ Our decision to feed non-medicated rations is rooted in our commitment to developing naturally robust and resilient flocks. Through thoughtful management practices, we aim to support the development of natural immunity to the environmental strains of coccidia and bacteria commonly encountered in our region. Rather than relying on routine medications, supplements, or antibiotics, our focus is on raising healthy poultry through sound husbandry, nutrition, and flock management. ​ As young chicks, this includes carefully supervised outdoor access, maintaining clean and dry brooder environments, and minimizing unnecessary stress. These practices have served our flock well season after season and continue to be an important part of our stewardship approach. ​ Every farm operates under different conditions and management goals. We encourage all poultry keepers to conduct their own research and make informed decisions that best suit their flock, environment, and production objectives.

We do not heat our facilities. Our coops are insulated and well ventilated to control overnight humidity as the temps can be as low as -38c here. Being on a lakefront property, we use wind breaks on our runs to protect our birds from the cold lake winds during the day. This is crucial for our single combed breeds. We find that frostbite is less common when the birds are shielded from the winter wind.

We do not vaccinate the birds within our breeding program. Over many years, we have carefully developed a flock that is well-adapted to our environment through thoughtful selection, sound husbandry, and a focus on natural resilience. Our goal is to maintain strong, vigorous poultry capable of thriving under responsible management practices. Bio-security remains one of the cornerstones of our program. We maintain strict protocols designed to minimize disease exposure and protect the long-term health of our flock. From visitor policies and equipment management to daily husbandry practices, every effort is made to support a healthy and stable breeding environment. As part of our ongoing commitment to flock health and transparency, we have implemented an annual testing program to monitor for several significant transmissible poultry diseases. This testing allows us to verify the health status of our breeding stock and provides an additional layer of confidence for those purchasing birds or hatching eggs from our farm. Our flock is routinely screened for: • Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) • Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) • Marek's Disease • Avian Leukosis Virus (ALV) We believe that responsible stewardship begins with healthy breeding stock. Through diligent management, regular health monitoring, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we strive to provide quality poultry that reflects the standards we expect within our own flock.