As the number of backyard poultry flocks grows in the United States, so have the number of questions from those new to the field.
The Cooperative Extension Service has developed an online course to help guide newcomers through the need-to-know’s on growing and maintain a healthy flock.
“This course has information on chicken breeds, husbandry and flock management,” said Dustan Clark, the extension veterinarian for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, who helped develop the course.
The course also includes information disease recognition and biosecurity – those steps a flock owner must take to prevent the spread of avian influenza and other diseases.
The course is free and may be found here: http://courses.uaex.edu/. Those who complete the course will be able to take a short test and receive a certificate noting their participation.
For more information about hobby flocks, visit https://www.uaex.edu/farm-ranch/animals-forages/poultry/hobby-small-flocks.aspx or contact a county extension office.
The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs and services without discrimination.