Raise Happy, Healthy Hens – Right Here in Central Oregon!
Thinking about raising chickens? Whether you’re dreaming of farm-fresh eggs or a self-sustaining meat operation, this workshop gives you the tools to start and maintain a thriving flock. You’ll learn from your neighbors in the Brain-Raising workhsop how to choose the right breeds, set up a safe and comfortable coop, and handle basic chicken health care—all with Central Oregon’s unique climate in mind.
When: We’ll schedule this workshop again when we get at least 10 pre-registrants.
Where: Bend/Redmond
Ticket Price: Contribute-What-You-Can
Get First in Line! Pre-Register!
Pre-registration is free; we only charge your credit card when we’re ready to schedule (and you say ok). When 10 people pre-register, we’ll set up the next workshop!
The Details
Pick the Perfect Poultry
Not all chickens are created equal—especially when it comes to surviving Central Oregon’s climate! Learn how to select breeds that align with your needs, whether you want a steady supply of eggs or homegrown meat birds.
Coop & Run Setup
Discover how to create a predator-proof, weather-friendly chicken habitat that keeps your birds safe and comfortable year-round. From ventilation to bedding choices, we’ll cover it all.
Basic Care & Issues
Chickens are low-maintenance, but they still need care! Learn to spot early signs of illness, handle minor health issues, and keep your flock thriving through every season.
Potluck! Feed Friends
Nothing says community like a potluck. Breaking bread while building bridges, so to speak. This workshop will include a potluck, a chance to talk about what you are learning, share experiences, and get to know one another. We’ll supply the main protein. Please bring something along to share with your neighbors!
brain-raising workshop
Guest star at this workshop!
Brain-Raising workshops are community-led workshops. We find local people with tons of lived experience share what they know with their neighbors. It’s a fun, social, learning experience. We provide an expert Guide App to give an authoritative backdrop to the conversation. Our Guides only use content from colleges, research centers, government agencies, and non-profits. You’ll meet new friends, and learn from your neighbors, and be able to share what you know too. Super fun!
Guest Star
Mary Siani and Friends
Mary is a School of Ranch Producer, and a seasoned leader and land steward whose career bridges the corporate and agricultural worlds. For nearly four decades, she worked in global program management, leading teams of project managers and driving large-scale initiatives with strategy, precision, and collaboration. Mary followed her passion for the land and love of animals, founding Sage Hound Farm, where goats, bees, chickens, gardens and a cute rescue Shetland pony thrive in harmony. Her goat herd provides regenerative grazing services that restore landscapes and reduce wildfire risk.
.
Guest Star
Melissa Scott
Melissa Scott was born to craft thanks to the generations of women before her. After teaching middle school for 20 years, she became a painting contractor starting Milk Money, LLC refinishing kitchen cabinets, furniture and walls. Melissa started as an urban backyard chicken tender but now raises 15 chickens, 3 alpacas, 2 teenagers and 1 bee hive.
Guest Star
Jon and Kyla Vevia
Jon and Kyla are city kids turned passionate farmers who traded pavement for pasture when they moved to Bend 15 years ago—and never looked back. Drawing on Jon’s background in teaching and Kyla’s expertise in communication, they’ve poured their talents into volunteering as 4-H club leaders, hosting hands-on farm visits for school kids, and raising high-quality animals for meat, soap, and more.
Today, they call Cray Cray Farm home—a small but lively farm just outside of Bend—where they, along with their two kids, raise pigs, dairy and fiber goats, and a whole flock of feathered characters including chickens, turkeys, guineas, ducks and lone ranger goose named “Ducky”.
Mary brings the same skills she honed in her corporate career—vision, organization, and team leadership—to her farming life, where the “teams” are both human and animal, and the goals are rooted in renewal, community, and balance with nature.
Partner
Sage Hound Farm LLC
Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, our little farm is a labor of love. We are passionate about raising purebred Nigerian Dwarf goats and sharing the goodness of the land through fresh, homegrown products—like raw honey, handcrafted herbal oils and self-care products, farm-fresh eggs, and seasonal produce. Sustainability and quality are at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we also offer a unique service through GoatsOnTheGo®Bend—targeted goat grazing for vegetation control. Whether you’re looking for an eco-friendly solution for your land or a charming addition to your next event, our goats are up for the job. At Sage Hound Farm, it’s more than just farming—it’s about creating meaningful experiences and sharing a piece of country life with you.
Join school of ranch
Save 20% On This Workshop!
Join School of Ranch and get 20% off all workshops for a year. Your membership helps us cover our costs. Being non-profit doesn’t mean you can lose money! We need your support and nothing shows support as much as a membership.
frequently asked questions
What should I wear?
This workshop is indoors in a heated classroom. Dress comfortably!
How do I get a personalized chicken farm plan?
We’ve developed an AI tool that helps you plan your chicken farm based on your goals, available land, and more. You’ll get a report at the end to guide your setup.
What should I bring?
- A laptop or tablet (the planner works on phones, but it’s not the best experience).
- A notepad and pen for extra notes.
- A dish to share for our potluck!
Will there be food?
There is no food provided—bring your own water and something tasty for the potluck.
Can kids attend?
Yes! Minors are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Each minor needs their own ticket.
What is School of Ranch?
School of Ranch is a Central Oregon based 501c3 nonprofit. We hire experienced locals to teach practical and artisan skills, live and in person. Beyond teaching skills and helping grow our workshop leader’s businesses, we create common ground for neighbors. School of Ranch brings together people regardless of politics, age, background or beliefs.