As I shared in my previous post, I've been eager to start my own farm and gain valuable experience while continuing my education. Living with my parents in Howell, Michigan, presented a challenge because our property wasn't the ideal setting for raising livestock. However, I held onto a powerful quote from Joel Salatin's book, "Salad Bar Beef," which emphasized making the most of what you have. With that wisdom in mind, I embarked on a journey that would eventually lead me to raising free-range ducks.
Our property abuts a substantial swamp, providing the ideal environment for waterfowl. Inspired by this natural setting and encouraged by a nod of approval from one of my parents, I was excited to begin my research and preparations for raising ducklings. Before bringing the ducks home, I knew I needed to create a safe and comfortable outdoor habitat for them, where they could mature and return to at night.
Drawing inspiration from my cousin in Florida, who also raises ducks, I set to work on building an outdoor duck house. I wanted this house to not only serve its functional purpose but also look aesthetically pleasing to our neighbors. After a visit to the local hardware store for materials like 2x4s and other essentials, I settled on a barn-style design with chicken wire sides and a sturdy 2x4 frame. The house took about three days to complete, including painting and adding a shingled roof.
The sense of accomplishment and pride I felt in my work only fueled my excitement for the arrival of the ducks. The next step was to set up a brooder. A brooder serves as a shelter for young ducks during their initial months, offering them protection from the elements and potential predators. It's essentially a safe and warm environment that simulates the care and warmth they would receive from their mother in nature.
For my brooder, I repurposed a 100-gallon horse trough I had on hand, moving it into my garage. An Infrared heat lamp was suspended above it to provide warmth, and straw served as comfortable bedding. I purchased food and water trays from Tractor Supply and obtained starter grower crumble feed with a high protein content (22%) to support the growing ducks. Additionally, I added brewer's yeast to their diet, providing extra nutrition and promoting the development of healthy legs.
With all preparations in place, I was ready to head to the store and bring the ducks home. It was an exciting moment, representing the beginning of my journey into duck farming and the fulfillment of a dream that had been inspired by the wisdom of those who understood the value of making the most of what we have.
Next Post I will discuss how I chose my duck breeds.
Deuteronomy 28:8. The Lord will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The Lord your god will bless you in the land.
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