Bounty Food and Farm Guide

GROWING SEASON 2018

Local Food and Farm Guide

Backyard chickens

Beyond great produce

CSA’S OFFER EVEN MORE

CONNECTING h CROPS TO CUISINE Restaurants sourcing local food PROGRAMS FOR young farm-hands

YOUR GUIDE TO

FARMERS MARKETS AND FARM STANDS

2|

All Natural makes all the difference.

WE OFFER

Everything you eat starts with how it is raised and how it gets to you. Know what you and your family are eating.

• Black Angus cattle selected for high marbling genetics, locally farm-raised in large pastures in a low stress environment • NEVER EVER given antibiotics, hormones, or steroids or fed animal by-products • Available by quarter, half, or whole, cut and packaged just the way you want it • Dry-aged 21 days for tender, moist, consistently great flavor.

www.blueskyfarmcolorado.com (970) 222-7147 • Rbluesky8@msn.com • Windsor, CO Please request a cutting instruction sheet to place your order.

LET US SHARE WHOLESOME, NUTRITIOUS, AND SAFE NATURAL BEEF WITH A TASTE YOU CAN TRUST.

Find Your Bounty at the

Boar & Bull

BoarandBull.com • Locally-sourced Animals • 1/2 and 1/4 Cuts Available • Deli & Full Tavern with 11 Local Beers on Tap! • Veteran Owned/Operated

970-599-1090 422 East 4th Street Loveland, CO NO ANTIBIOTICS NO STEROIDS NO HORMONES

|3

FROM THE PUBLISHER BACKYARD CHICKENS ARE just so much fun. I remember grabbing the kids and heading out to the store where all the little peepers were pecking around under the warm lights. A sign was supposed to help us choose what variety we wanted, but it was a little tricky to tell which fluff ball would actually grow into which chicken.

Aside from the greatness of eating eggs that your very own hens laid, the entire process of putting up a coop and taking care of the chickens was instructive and entertaining. It’s a nice reminder where our food comes from.

Another great demonstration about where food comes from can be found at farm stands, farmers markets, and CSAs. It’s always worth the time to get out and shop and buy fresh, locally produced food. Also, check out our story about what CSAs do beyond food. And use our resources list to get connected with growers all around northern Colorado.

And take a minute to read about the programs that are connecting kids to the land, too. It’s encouraging to see kids unplugged from digital gear and plugged into the farm.

Have a wonderful growing season, Scott

4|

TABLE OF CONTENTS Spring/summer 2018 • Volume 4, Number 1

CSAS SUPPORT COMMUNITIES . . . . . . . . . . . 6 LOCAL PRODUCER LISTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 FARMERS MARKETS & FARM STANDS. . . . 10 BACKYARD CHICKENS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 FARM PROGRAMS FOR KIDS . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 CONNECTING CROPS TO CUISINE . . . . . . . . 18 Publisher: Scott Titterington Editor: Kristin Titterington Creative Director: Emily Zaynard Advertising Sales Director: Greg Hoffman Contributing Writers: Katie Harris, Lea Hanson.

Copyright Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc., 825 Laporte Ave., Fort Collins, CO, 80521. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or in whole without written permission is prohibited.

Northern Colorado’s Favorite Parenting Magazine.

Pick up your FREE copy today!

visit us online at: rmparent.com

|5

GROWING LOCALLY Learn more about local food and its importance in the community NOCO Food Cluster CSA Fair Saturday, April 7, 10am–2pm Opera Galleria, Fort Collins, www.nocofood.org/csafair

EDUCATION

BEYOND FRESH PRODUCE

CSAs support the communities that support them LEA HANSON

T

he first thing that comes to mind when we think of our local CSAs is weekly, fresh produce. Those familiar with CSAs aren’t surprised to find that many offer foods beyond fruit and vegetables such as eggs, milk, meat, and honey.

Northern Colorado farms continue to grow and we are finding our favorite CSAs are expanding offerings and opportunities for their members that reach into the realms of education, programs for food accessibility, service and volunteering.

ing a part of a team of farmers who do the same is uniquely satisfying.

The Growing Project (www. thegrowingproject.org) believes good food is a human right and aims to spread the knowledge of growing and preserving food to remedy the epidemic of food insecurity in Larimer County.

They offer an array of volunteering opportunities and most volunteer hours are compensated with fresh produce.

SERVICE AND VOLUNTEERING

Food security is a growing concern in Larimer County. And many who qualify to receive food assistance are not enrolled to do so. In 2016, the enrollment rate for federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits was only 40 percent of those eligible. In 2016, 21,798 (40 percent of those eligible) were enrolled in SNAP; in Weld County, 25,090 (53 percent of those

An increasing number of CSAs offer volunteering opportunities and “working memberships.” Even those with limited growing knowledge and experience can contribute to a community farm. For many, being outdoors, working with their hands, and getting dirty is a rare and exciting opportunity. Being a part of growing the food you consume and be-

6|

FOOD ACCESSIBILITY

Many local CSAs, farms and related organizations offer training and education to community members who are interested in learning everything from the logistical skills of growing food to learning more about food accessibility as an issue of social justice.

The Growing Project offers diverse programs for youth and adults alike including the Young Farmers Training Program, Teens for Food Justice, an Edible and Medicinal Weed Walk, and Foraging, Harvesting, and Processing of Wild Grains.

In addition to offering traditional CSA memberships, Sproutin’ Up (http://www.sproutinup.com) aims to improve the health, wellness, and job-readiness of under-resourced youth and families in northern Colorado by providing access to fresh produce while educating youth on healthy lifestyles and sustainable agricultural practices. The organization offers apprenticeship, entrepreneurship, and intern programs in addition to school gardens and summer camps.

eligible) were enrolled. It is clear that not all of our communities have equitable access to healthy food and there are many CSAs that want to change that.

Studies show that both adults and children in low-income households that participate in cost-offset community supported agriculture consume more fruits and vegetables than members of low-income households who do not have access to a CSA. The Northern Colorado Food Cluster (nocofood.org) hosts a CSA Fair with eight participating farms to provide those accessing SNAP benefits an opportunity to not only connect with farms who accept SNAP as payment, but also receive 50 percent of a CSA share matched (up to $200) so those with tighter incomes can stretch their dollars further.

Our Chefs are our CSAs

WE ARE MOBILE

To Advertise, contact: Greg at 970-689- 6832

1

greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com

2

Scott at 970-980- 9183

scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

Reach all of northern Colorado via print and digital marketing with Rocky Mountain Publishing.

Read all of our publications on your mobile device.

GROWING SEASON 2016

SPRING 2017

SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO • FIFTYBETTER.COM

Pots and plots— PREPARING YOUR GARDEN

Mindfulness and your health

JESSUP FARM ARTISAN VILLAGE AT ONE YEAR

SOURCING

Sample a local craft

The Heritage of

FIND IT IN THE

DIRECTORY

PIT STOPS

Destinations and

wayside breaks

PLUS

THE 2017

Church

of DIRT

LOCAL MEAT

[BIG BIKE]

Finding your passions

beer

Connecting Crops to Cuisine

RESTAURANTS SOURCING LOCAL

HAPPY HEART FARM

RiDE 2017 GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE & EVENTS

LOCAL FOOD AND FARM GUIDE

BIKE

CALENDAR

Ditch the pavement for dusty dirt trails, fire roads, meandering two tracks, and crunchy gravel roads

ALSO INSIDE:

* FARMS & MARKET DIRECTORY * SPRING & SUMMER WORKSHOPS & EVENTS

INSIDE: LIFESTYLE, ACTIVE [AND HEALTH DIRECTORIES] GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

RiDE | 1

|7

Local Producers BEEF

DAIRY

EGGS

FISH

FLOWERS & HERBS

HONEY

MUSHROOMS

MUTTON

PORK

POULTRY

PRODUCE

2 R’s Farm 19361 Hwy. 61, Platteville www.colorado.com/farm-ranchactivities/2-rs-farm, 970-737-2689

Bayberry Fresh Fort Collins www.bayberryfresh.com 719-580-3236

Blue Barrel Farm (CSA) 40907 CR 15, Fort Collins www.bluebarrelfarm.com 970-692-3642

Carrie’s Clucks (CSA) 35484 CR 49, Eaton www.carriesclucks.com 970-213-4902

Amy & Ellen’s Grass Fed Beef 181 Lazy D Ranch Rd., Bellvue www.barncatservices.com/beef 970-881-2147

Bee Squared Apiaries 1617 White Water Ct., Berthoud www.bethsbees.com 970-213-3099

Blue Sky Farm Windsor www.blueskyfarmcolorado.com 970-222-7147

Colorado’s Best Beef 4791 Jay Rd., Boulder www.naturalbeef.com 303-449-8632

Anders Farm 8443 US Hwy. 85, Fort Lupton www.facebook.com/AndersFarm-138514266184151/ 303-857-6321

Beyond the Hive Fort Collins www.beeyondthehive.com 970-405-0709

Blush Flowers on Vine (CSA) 1428 W. Vine Dr., Fort Collins www.blushflowersonvine.com 970-217-8505

Colorado Wise Acres Farm 8695 CR 29 1/2, Fort Lupton www.coloradowiseacresfarm.com 303-808-8504

Big Willy’s Farm 300 42nd St. SW, Loveland www.bigwillysfarm.com 970-581-9468

Buena Vida 8204 S. CR 3, Fort Collins www.buenavidafarm.com 970-305-2182

Copoco’s Honey 2020 N. College Ave., Fort Collins http://copocoshoney.com 970-493-2923

Black Market Farm (CSA) Laramie, WY www.blackmarketfarm.com 307-399-5619

C&R Farms 3620 F Rd., Palisade www.candrfarms.com 970-464-7544

Craig Angus Ranch 6018 N. CR 19, Fort Collins www.craigangusranch.com 970-402-1098

Audubon Rockies Fort Collins www.rockies.audubon.org 970-416-6931 Bartels Farm 3424 E. Douglas Rd. (CR 54) Fort Collins www.thebartelsfarm.com 970-493-3853

8|

Cresset Farm (CSA) 5621 E. CR 52, Fort Collins www.facebook.com/cressetfarm/ 970-744-2297

Green Dog Farm (CSA) 1807 W. Vine Dr., Fort Collins www.greendogfarmcsa.com 651-341-3130

Croft Family Farm (CSA) 29060 CR 388, Kersey www.croftfamilyfarm.com 970-371-1378

The Growing Project at The Burrow 1502 N. Shields St, Fort Collins www.thegrowingproject.org 970-587-3827

D&H Farms (CSA) 41373 Hwy. 85, Ault www.dhfarms2000.com 970-396-1182 Desiderata Ranch 4617 W. CR 2, Berthoud http://desiderataranch.org/ 303-772-9611 Donoma Farms (CSA) 10018 WCR 110, Carr www.donomafarms.com 303-408-3464 Double Dig Farm (CSA) 8851 US Hwy. 34, Loveland www.facebook.com/doubledigfarm 413-427-8458 Ela Family Farms 30753 L Rd., Hotchkiss www.elafamilyfarms.com 970-872-3488 Ewe Bet Ranch 1850 E. Hwy. 60, Loveland www. ewebetranch.com 970-203-4267 Fair Eliza’s Flowers (CSA) 5389 Hwy. 1, Fort Collins www.fairelizasflowers.com 970-214-8983 Friendly Critters Farm 3915 N. CR 19, Fort Collins www.friendlycrittersfarm.store 407-766-6049 Front Range Apiaries 4130 Hayes Ave., Wellington 970-568-3533 Gaia’s Farm and Gardens (CSA) 4328 W. CR 54G, LaPorte www.gaiascsa.com, 970-817-2186 Garden Sweet (CSA) 719 W. Willox Ln., Fort Collins www.gardensweet.com 970-889-4922 Good Grin Farm 2925 W. Mulberry St., Fort Collins www.goodgrinfarm.com 720-206-7917

h-Beef Platteville, www.h-beef.com 970-381-1429 Harvest Farm (CSA) Wellington, www.harvestfarm.net 970-568-9803 Hazel Dell Mushrooms 3925 Carpenter Rd., Fort Collins www.hazeldellmushrooms.com 970-226-0978 Heritage Lavender, LLC 4809 Foothills Dr., Berthoud www.heritagelavender.com 303-514-6504 High Point Bison, LLC 68810 WCR 111, Pine Bluffs, Wyo. www.highpointbison.com 970-895-3303 Hill’s Harvest 3225 E. 124th Ave., Thornton www.hillsharvest.com 303-451-5637 Hoffman Farms, LLC 33177 Pikes Peak Dr., Greeley www.hopsandpeppers.com 970-978-6765 Homestead Ranch 4701 Skyline Dr, Fort Collins www.allthingsranch.com 970-515-2122, Goats Integrity Farms (CSA) 2880 E. Hwy. 402, Loveland www.facebook.com/IntegrityFarms 970-670-0763 Jodar Farms (CSA) 5100 E. CR 48 , Fort Collins www.jodarfarms.com 970-391-2825 Kiowa Valley Organics Roggen www.kiowavalleyorganics.com 303-419-8305 Laughing Buck Farm 3724 N. CR 13, Fort Collins www.laughingbuckfarm.com LaVida Greens 125 N. Sherwood St., Fort Collins www.facebook.com/LaVidaGreens 970-744-5558

Lazy Bee Ranch 2503 CR 47, Hudson www.lazybeeranchhoney.com Leffler Family Farm & Local Motion CSA, (CSA) 37414 CR 29, Eaton www.lefflerfarms.com 970-689-2355 Liberty Home Grown Produce 703 Aspen Grove Way, Severance www.facebook.com/ libertyhomegrownproduce 970-685-0500 Lindenmeier Farm (CSA) 1409 Lindenmeier Rd., Fort Collins www.facebook.com/LindenmeierFarm-163476930377064/ Living Water Ranch Fort Collins www.livingwaterranchcolorado.com 970-219-8001 Long Shadow Farm (CSA) 101 Bothun Rd., Berthoud www.longshadowfarm.com 970-232-6667 Lukens Farm 9378 CR 78, Fort Collins www.facebook.com/LukensFarms 303-579-2668 Lyons Farmette (CSA) 4121 Ute Hwy., Lyons www.lyonsfarmette.com 303-746-6266 Masonville Orchards Masonville, Stove Prairie, Briggsdale, Ault, Fort Collins www.masonvilleorchard.com 970-231-6399 Mazzotti Farms 2628 WCR 49, Hudson www.mazzottifarms.com 303-536-4089 Meadow Maid Foods (CSA) 1333 Rd. 50, Yoder, Wyo. www.meadowmaidfoods.com 307-534-2289 Miller Farms (CSA) 13912 CR 19, Platteville www.millerfarms.net 970-785-6133 Monroe Organic Farm (CSA) 25525 WCR 48, Kersey www.monroefarm.com 970-284-7941 Morton’s Organic Orchards 3651 E 1/2 Rd., Palisade http://mortonsorchards.com 720-371-1727

|9

Motherlove Organic Farms 1420 Riverside Ave., Ste. 114 Fort Collins, www.motherlove.com 970-493-2892 Native Hill Farm (CSA) 2100 CR 54G, Laporte www.nativehillfarm.com 970-217-8964 Ole Dern Farm 2719 CR 54G. Fort Collins www.facebook.com/ OleDernFarm/ 970-481-1449 Ollin Farms (CSA) 8627 N. 95th St., Longmont www.ollinfarms.com

On the Vine at Richmond Farms (CSA) 3611 Richmond Dr., Fort Collins www.onthevineatrichmondfarms.com 970-443-4011 Osito Orchard 11550 3100 Rd., Hotchkiss www.ositoorchard.com 970-498-9460 Papa Joe’s Local Honey 4855 W Eisenhower Blvd, #A Loveland www.facebook.com/ PapaJoesLocalHoney/

970-663-2825 Pope Farms Produce & Garden Center 6510 W. 28th Ave., Greeley www.popefarmsproduce.com 970-330-5907 Quatrix Aquaponics LaPorte, www.quatrix.us Raindrop Retreat (CSA) 6410 Placer Ct., Bellvue www.raindropretreat.com 970-493-0799 Raisin’ Roots Farm (CSA) 2229 W. Vine Dr., Fort Collins www.facebook.com/raisinroots 443-863-0677 Raspberry Hill Farm 13350 N. CR 15, Wellington www.raspberryhill.farm 970-568-7424 Red Dog Expressions Fort Collins www.reddogexpressions. wordpress.com Rock Ridge Ranch 8851 W. US Hwy. 34, Loveland 970-663-6624 Rock Soup Ranch (CSA) 2420 E. CR 68, Wellington www.facebook.com/RockSoupRanch

FARM STANDS Anders Farm 8443 US Hwy. 8, Fort Lupton www.facebook.com/AndersFarm-138514266184151/ Bartels Farm

3424 E. Douglas Rd. (CR 54) Fort Collins www.thebartelsfarm.com Carrie’s Clucks 35484 CR 49, Eaton www.carriesclucks.com Desiderata Ranch 4617 CR 2, Berthoud http://desiderataranch.org/ Gaia’s Farm and Gardens 4328 W. CR 54G, Laporte www.gaiascsa.com

10 |

303-345-4321 Sauer Family Beef 6681 CR 50, Johnstown www.sauerfamilybeef.com 970-587-2112

Sunspot Urban Farm (CSA) 1008 Sunset Ave., Fort Collins www.sunspoturbanfarm. squarespace.com 970-556-5942

Scarecrow Gardens 2235 N. 47th Ave., Greeley www.scarecrowgardens.com 970-420-0163

Sylvan Dale Ranch 2939 N. CR 31D, Loveland www.sylvandale.com 970-667-3915

Shire CSA (CSA) 713 E. Prospect Rd., Fort Collins www.shirecsa.com 970-222-2077

Tigges Farm 12404 WCR 64½, Greeley www.tiggesfarm.com 970-576-8970

Sproutin’ Up @ The Botanique (CSA) 5100 E. Hwy. 14, Fort Collins www.sproutinup.com 970-391-2613

Top Notch All Natural Meats www.topnotchmeats.com 970-834-1449

Sunny Daze 901 S. CR 5, Fort Collins www.SunnydazeGardens.com 970-223-7008

Westbridge Farms Fort Collins www.westbridgefarms.com 970-988-0579

Sunray Natural (CSA) 5656 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Collins www.sunraynatural.farm 970-980-9393

WiseAcres Greenhouse 3545 W. O St., Greeley www.facebook.com/WiseAcresGreenhouse-288246033683/ 970-302-8880

Sunrise Ranch (CSA) 100 Sunrise Ranch Rd., Loveland www.sunriseranch.org 970-679-4200

Woolly Goat Farm (CSA) 117 S. Taft Hill Rd., Fort Collins www.woollygoatfarm.com 970-231-9069

Something about being on a farm just feels good. The pace feels relaxed and your interactions, maybe, more genuine. So swing by a farm stand soon and pick up some deliciousness while you’re at it.

Garden Sweet 719 W. Willox Ln., Fort Collins www.gardensweet.com

Hoffman Farms, LLC 3545 W. 0 St., Greeley www.hopsandpeppers.com

Good Grin Farm 2925 W. Mulberry St., Fort Collins www.goodgrinfarm.com

Jodar Farms 5100 E. CR 48, Fort Collins www.jodarfarms.com

Green Dog Farm Fort Collins www.greendogfarmcsa.com

Long Shadow Farm 101 Bothun Rd., Berthoud www.longshadowfarm.com

Happy Heart Farm 2820 W. Elizabeth St., Fort Collins www.happyheartfarmcsa.com

Native Hill Farm 2100 W. CR 54G, Fort Collins www.nativehillfarm.com

Hazel Dell Mushrooms 3925 E. CR 32 (Carpenter Rd.), Fort Collins www.hazeldellmushrooms.com

Ollin Farms 8627 N. 95th St., Longmont www.ollinfarms.com

Heritage Lavender 4809 Foothills Dr., Berthoud www.heritagelavender.com

On the Vine at Richmond Farms 3611 Richmond Dr., Fort Collins www.onthevineatrichmond farms.com

Papa Joe’s Honey

4855 W Eisenhower Blvd, #A Loveland www.facebook.com/ PapaJoesLocalHoney/ Sunny Daze 901 S. CR 5, Fort Collins www.sunnydazegardens.com Tigges Farm 12404 CR 64½, Greeley www.tiggesfarm.com

Farmers

MARKETS

It’s the best day of the week... that day you get to wander around the Farmers Market and check out all the fresh produce.

Or maybe you go for the fresh plants for your garden or the meats and breads and sauces and other locally made products.

Stop by some of these markets.

Berthoud Local Farmers Market Fickel Park in downtown Berthoud Saturdays, 9am-1pm, June 23-Sept. 29 www.berthoudlocal.org/farmers-market/

Downtown Mead Farmers Market Mead Town Park Sundays, 10am-1pm, June-Sept. www.townofmead.org

Johnstown Milliken Farmers Market Saturdays, Downtown Johnstown, Aug. 18Sept.15 www.jmchamber.com

CAMC Fort Collins Farmers Market Harmony Road and Lemay Avenue In front of Ace Hardware Sundays, 11am-3pm, May-mid-Nov. (weather permitting) Wednesdays, 11am-3pm, June-Sept. www.fortcollinsfm.com

Drake Road Farmers Market 802 W. Drake Rd., Fort Collins Saturdays, 10am-1pm, April 21-Oct. www.drakeroadfarmersmarket.com

Larimer County Farmers Market 200 S. Oak St., Fort Collins Saturdays, 8am-12noon, May 19-Oct. 28 www.larimercountyfarmersmarket.org

Erie Farmers Market Briggs Street between Wells and Moffatt, Erie Thursdays, 5-8pm, May 17-Sept. 20 www.realfarmersmarketco.com

Louisville Farmers Market 824 Front St., Louisville Saturdays, 9am-1pm, May 19-Oct. 13 www.realfarmersmarketco.com

Estes Valley Farmers Market Bond Park on E. Elkhorn Ave. Thursdays, 8am-1pm, June 7-Sept. www.facebook.com/EstesValleyFarmersMarket

Wellington Farmers Market Centennial Park, 3815 Harrison Ave. Saturdays, 9:30am-1:30pm, June-Oct. www.wellingtoncofarmersmarket.org

CAMC Loveland Farmers Market 3133 N. Garfield Ave. (Hwy. 287) In front of Hobby Lobby Saturdays, 9am-1pm, June-Sept.

Tuesdays, 11am-3pm, June-Oct. www.fortcollinsfm.com Farmers Market at Fairgrounds Park 700 S. Railroad Ave., Loveland Sundays, 9am-1:30pm, June 24-Sept. 30 www.cityofloveland.org/farmersmarket

Greeley Farmers’ Market The Depot, 902 7th Ave. Saturdays, 8am-12noon, May 19-Oct. 27 www.greeleygov.com/fm

| 11

Backyard chickens

The beginner’s guide to fowling up your life Katie Harris 12 |

KnOw yOuR ORdinAnCeS Following the rules keeps everyone clucking happily. Below are the basic guidelines to keep peace in the henhouse.

In Larimer County, ordinances for raising chickens are as follows: (www. larimer.org/planning/animals/chickens):

• A property owner may raise chickens if there is a house or residential use on a property. Keeping chickens for personal use is considered an accessory use.

•A n owner or tenant may keep up to 6 hens.

• Keeping roosters or more than 6 chickens is prohibited in all zone districts except those that allow a farm (zoned FA, FA-1, FO, FO-1, O, E, E-1, RE, RE-1, R, and AP).

N

ot so long ago, urban residents had no choice but to hoof it to the grocery store or stand in line at a cafe to enjoy a hearty breakfast on a Saturday morning, but those days are past! Backyard chickens are spreading like wildfire across the nation, and chances are someone you know has already taken up the hobby. If rumors about the freshest, most delicious eggs you’ve ever tasted have piqued your interest but you’re not sure where to start, we have all the information you need to embark confidently on the path to poultry keeping.

A small flock of five or six birds is plenty for the average family starting out, and will require no more than a regular coop cleaning (which can consist of as little as dumping out the soiled pine shavings from the coop and shoveling in a fresh load), commercial chicken feed, fresh water,

The following requirements apply to keeping chickens:

and some dirt. Savvy chicken owners purchase or build large enough feeders and waterers to cut refills down to once or twice a week, and scour the Internet for used coops or simple plans to build their own.

There are a few options to consider when choosing feed. An 18-percent protein feed in crumble form is recommended for chicks and pullets up to 20 weeks. Opinions vary on whether to use medicated or non-medicated, but experts seem to be shying away from medicated feed in recent years. It’s best to ask whether your chickens were vaccinated as chicks and do a bit of research into medicated feeds before making your choice.

At 20 weeks you should be able to distinguish your pullets, who will begin laying in the next few weeks, from any cockerels in the group by the male’s tell-tale saddle feathers

• The chickens must be provided with a covered, properly ventilated, predatorresistant chicken coop.

• The chickens must have access to an outdoor enclosure that is adequately fenced to protect them from predators.

• The coop and enclosure are limited to a maximum size of 120-square feet.

• The chicken coop and outdoor enclosure shall be regularly cleaned to control dust, odor, and waste and not constitute a nuisance, safety hazard, or health problem to surrounding properties.

In Weld County ordinances vary by city.

City of Greeley ordinances are as follows (City of Greeley code 18.52): • A property owner may raise two chickens per one tenth of an acre, not to exceed 20 chickens per acre in H-A Zones. One chicken per one tenth of an acre, not to exceed 10 chickens per acre, is permitted in all other zones.

| 13

and awkward juvenile crow. If you don’t plan on keeping a rooster, visit www.backyardchickens.com/articles/ what-to-do-with-unwanted-cockerels.63130/ for options. (Contrary to popular belief, hens do NOT need a rooster to lay eggs.) Feed at this stage should contain 16-percent protein, and is available in crumbles or pellets, which can help eliminate waste.

While a feed specifically formulated for chickens should be the primary staple of your flock’s diet, there are a few other food items to consider. The first is grit; a packaged crushed granite which chickens need for digestion. If your flock will have access to dirt and crushed rock on a regular basis you may not need to purchase

14 |

commercial grit. Laying hens also need a calcium supplement such as oyster shell, which is available wherever feed is sold, to aid in producing strong egg shells. Finally, treats such as meal worms, scratch grains and household food scraps can be offered in moderation. For a list of chicken-safe foods visit www.blog.mcmurrayhatchery. com/2015/05/25/feeding-your-chickens-tablescraps/ Raising chickens is an ongoing learning experience, and you will certainly want to expand your knowledge and tweak your routine along the way to keep your flock happy and healthy, but knowing the basics will help you get started off on the right foot.

Happy chicken keeping!

Join us this season for the best of Fort Collins: bikes, beer, farms, food and fun.

We create fortified connections through events with a purpose.

F O R T I F I E D C O L L A B O R AT I O N S . C O M

| 15

FIND A FARMSTEAD Discover a place for your little farmhand to grow.

Laughing Buck Farm 3724 North County Road 13, Fort Collins 493-0270, www.laughingbuckfarm.com The Farm at Lee Martinez 600 North Sherwood, Fort Collins 970.221.6665, www.fcgov.com/recreation/ the-farm-lee-martinez-park Zippity Zoo Barnyard 6921 Ridge Valley Ct, Loveland 80538 970-231-6444 (text only) www.zippityzoobarnyard.com

LITTLE FARMERS DO BIG WORK Farm programs for kids make work feel like play KATIE HARRIS

A

t Laughing Buck Farm in Fort Collins, building a relationship with animals and the land is what it’s all about. That’s why farm manager Rosemary Graff encourages her young students to get their hands dirty and spend some time really getting to know the resident livestock.

“We pride ourselves in making the experience really hands on; it’s not a petting zoo,” says Graff, who affectionately refers to the kids who attend her classes as ‘small farmers doing big work’.

Graff and her staff of teachers and farm hands at Laughing Buck Farm welcome children year round to their farm school, a weekly half-day program for homeschooled students; their after- school classes, which take place for an hour every Wednesday

16 |

afternoon; their summer camps, which include horse and farm themes; and their recently added educational tours and family-farm days.

“We’re open and outside year round, in any weather,” says Graff. “If it’s winter we’re bundled up working. We want these kids to feel the connection with the rhythm of nature; to feel like they’re real farmers just like I am.”

When attending classes or camp at Laughing Buck Farm, kids are expected to help out with everyday seasonal chores from gathering eggs to gardening to raking leaves. Nature walks, fort building and horseback riding are also included in the outdoor curriculum.

Also in Fort Collins, The Farm at Lee Martinez offers its own farm experience for kids of all ages. The Pee-Wee

Farmers program lets 4- and 5-year-olds try their hands at milking cows, gathering eggs and riding ponies. Toddlers can take part in Li’l Dumplin’ and Little Peepers classes, meeting animals and helping with farm chores. The farm is open to the public for visits Wednesday through Sunday, and for pony rides on the weekends.

Five miles west of Loveland, Zippity Zoo Barnyard offers themed kids’ farm events and summer farm field trips at their alpaca ranch and working farm. Upcoming programs include Kids Morning on the Farm on May 5th, which costs $5 per person and lasts 1.5 hours, and farm family days throughout the summer. All programming requires advance reservations, which can be made online.

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL FOOD SYSTEM

HOW YOU CAN HELP

There are lots of things you can do to help sustain and grow Northern Colorado’s local food system. Here are a few:

• P urchase a CSA share. With dozens to choose from, you can

sample what different farms have and tailor your selection to the needs of your family.

• Patronize your local farmers markets and the restaurants that buy food from local farmers

• Take your kids to the farm. Many farms welcome visitors and

The Food School offers agricultural experiences for kids and adults.

Visit edibleshcoolyard.org

• Join Living Soil Investments. For a $5,100 investment, you can become part of this group of co-investors making critical microloans to local farmers and producers.

Visit livingsoilinvestments.wordpress.com

• Support The Growing Project, a nonprofit that promotes the value of a strong, diverse and just local food system through a variety of initiatives and services. Visit thegrowingproject.org

• Attend a farm dinner • K now your farmer and know the source of your food.

Hiatt Farms Montessori School • A Bilingual Montessori Farm School

Visit us online for our

Open House information

970-775-8448

6664 North County Road #13 Loveland, Colorado

Now Accepting Applications

HiattFarmsMontessori.com | 17

Connecting Crops to Cuisine Eating locally doesn’t have to stop when you leave your kitchen. Here’s a select listing of restaurants and food trucks that include locally produced food in their menus: Ace Gillett’s www.acegillets.com, 970-449-4797 239 S. College Ave., Fort Collins Underground bar offering small plates and mains, cocktails and live jazz music.

Austin’s American Grill www.austinsamericangrill.com 100 W. Mountain Ave., FC, 970-224-9691, 2815 E. Harmony Rd., FC, 970-267-6532 American dishes with Southwestern touches, casual with a sidewalk cafe.

Fresh Plate Café & Catering www.freshplatecafeandcatering.com 970-744-3041, 325 Cleveland Ave., LV Actively supports local producers that engage in organic and sustainable agricultural practices.

The Cooking Studio www.facebook.com/ TheCookingStudioFC/, 720-839-2417 123 N. College Ave., FC Cooking school dedicated to engaging with simple and fresh ingredients.

Jay’s Bistro www.jaysbistro.net, 970-482-1876 135 W. Oak St., FC Swanky, American eatery filled with art, seasonal fare and live jazz.

The Emporium Kitchen www.theelizabethcolorado.com 970-490-2600 111 Chestnut St., FC An exceptional restaurant experience highlighting locally sourced, quality ingredients.

The Boar and Bull www.boarandbull.com, 970-800-3694 422 E. 4th St., LV Locally raised meats and tavern.

Jax Fish House www.jaxfortcollins.com 970-682-2275, 123 N. College Ave., FC Fresh, sustainable seafood alongside local produce.

Café Vino www.cafevino.com, 970-212-3399 1200 S. College Ave., FC Wine bar serving tapas, cocktails and craft beers.

Linden Street Café www.lindenstreetcafe.com 970-493-9683, 255 Linden St., FC Fair trade organic beans roasted locally, house-made breakfast and lunch menu.

Chimney Park www.chimneypark.com, 970-686-1477 406 Main St., Windsor Fine dining with menu that reflects seasonality and items produced in NoCo.

Locality Kitchen & Bar www.localityfoco.com, 970-568-8351 2350 E. Harmony Rd., FC A locally owned, farm-to-table restaurant focusing on freshly crafted cuisine.

Choice City Butcher & Deli www.choicecitybutcher.com 970-490-2489, 104 W. Olive St., FC Locally raised meat and poultry.

Mugs Coffee Lounge www.mugscoffeelounge.com 970-472-6847, 306 W. Laurel St., FC 261 S. College Ave., FC Fair trade, organic, home-grown, local coffee and food.

Crooked Cup www.thecrookedcup.com 970-484-7375, 147 W. Oak St. #101, FC Locally roasted coffee, full bakery and breakfast.

Door 222 www.door222.com, 970-541-3020 222 E. 4th St. #100, LV Adventurous tapas, plus wine, beer and cocktails.

Fish Restaurant www.fishmkt.com, 970-599-3817 150 W. Oak St., FC Sustainable seafood dishes and local products. On-site fish market.

FoCo Café www.fococafe.org, 225 Maple St., FC Nonprofit, lunch spot that makes healthy meals accessible to all.

18 |

Restaurant 415 www.thefourfifteen.com 970-407-0415, 415 S. Mason St., FC Featuring locally sourced ingredients plus vegan and gluten-free menus.

Simmer www.simmerfc.com 970-893-2837, 2519 S. Shields St., #1F, FC A flavorful fusion of locally sourced produce and meats.

Tasty Harmony www.tastyharmony.com 970-689-3234, 160 W. Oak St., FC Veggie and vegan with a laid-back vibe.

The Colorado Room www.thecoloradoroom.com 970-682-1163, 642 S. College Ave., FC Colorado food, beer and spirits, art more.

The Farmhouse at Jessup Farm www.farmhousefc.com, 970-631-8041 1957 Jessup Dr., FC Casual farmhouse eatery and backyard farm delivering seasonal Colorado fare.

The Gold Leaf www.thegoldleafcollective.com 120 W. Laurel St., FC An exceptional dining experience that showcases northern Colorado’s unique and vastly diverse flavors.

The Waffle Lab www.wafflelab.com, 970-232-9433 130 W. Olive St., Ste. D, FC Gourmet Belgian-style Liège waffles with sweet and savory combinations.

Wapiti Colorado Pub www.thewapitipub.com, 970-635-1985 701 N. Clubhouse Dr., LV Breathtaking views, home-grown food and craft beers and wine.

Welsh Rabbit Bistro www.thewelshrabbit.com/bistro 970-232-9521 Unit B, 200 Walnut St, FC Wine and cheese bistro experience with Old World charm.

FOOD TRUCKS Bear’s Backyard Grill www.bearsbackyard.com Farm Fusion www.farmfusion.org

The Kitchen www.thekitchenbistros.com 970-568-8869, 100 N. College Ave., FC Garden-to-table American meals in an eco-friendly urban space.

Goodness www.thegoodnesstruck.com

The Moothouse www.themoothouse.com 970-226-2121, 2626 S. College Ave., FC Modern English pub, local craft beers.

Ripe Tomatoes Wood Fired Pizza www.ripetomatoeswoodfiredpizza.com

Rainbow Restaurant www.rainbowfoco.com, 970-221-2664 212 W. Laurel St., FC Specializes in traditional, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free fare made with fresh, local ingredients.

Stick It To Ya /stickittoyafoodtruck

Revolution Market www.revolutionmarkets.com 130 W. Olive St., FC Locally sourced groceries, deli, takeand-bake dinners.

Rise! a breakfast place www.riseabreakfastplace.com 970-672-8647, 2601 S. Lemay Ave., FC Serving fresh, local, wholesome foods prepared from scratch in a warm inviting atmosphere.

La Piadina www.la-piadina-foodtruck.weebly.com

Silver Seed www.thesilverseed.com

Sweaty Moose /Sweatymoose2016

Tramp About /thetrampabout Trattoria Oreganata /TrattoriaOreganata Umami Mobile Asian Eatery www.umamifoodtruck.com Waffle Lab www.thewafflelab.com

LOCALITY KITCHEN AND BAR is a

locally-owned, farm-to-table restaurant focusing on local products and freshly crafted cuisine.

Open at 11am Daily Sunday Brunch 10am-3pm Happy Hour 3pm-6pm Executive Chef Dryden Goss

Owners Jim & Jennie Edwards of Door 222 in Loveland

2350 East Harmony Road | Fort Collins | 970-568-8351 LocalityFoco.com | Download the NoWait app to skip the line

| 19

20 |