The Chicken Tender's Handbook

The Chicken Tender’s Handbook (Justin Rhodes)

The Chicken Tender’s Handbook is a practical, experience-based guide to raising chickens in a way that supports both the land and the farmer. Rooted in regenerative principles, this book walks through the daily care, system design, and decision-making needed to successfully integrate poultry into a homestead or farm. It’s especially valuable for those looking to move beyond basic chicken keeping into intentional, productive systems.

Key Characteristics

• Daily Care and Observation Skills
  This book emphasizes the role of the “chicken tender”—someone who actively observes flock behavior, health, and environmental conditions. It teaches how to read your birds and respond proactively, reducing common issues before they escalate.
• Pasture-Based Poultry Systems
  Covers mobile coops, rotational grazing, and how to manage chickens on pasture for improved soil impact and bird health. These systems are designed to distribute manure, reduce disease pressure, and align with regenerative land management.
• Practical Feeding and Health Strategies
  Explores feed options, supplementation, and natural approaches to maintaining flock health. It also addresses common challenges like predators, parasites, and seasonal stress with grounded, real-world solutions.
• Integration into Homestead Systems
  Shows how chickens can fit into larger systems such as gardens, orchards, and silvopasture. Thoughtful placement and movement of birds can support fertility, pest management, and overall farm function.
• Built from Real Experience, Not Theory
  Drawn directly from Justin Rhodes’ hands-on work, the book reflects what actually works in day-to-day homestead life. It includes practical insights, adjustments, and lessons learned over time.

Product Details

• Format: Paperback
• Subject: Poultry care, homesteading, regenerative agriculture
• Recommended Use: Guide for raising and managing chickens on pasture or homestead systems
• Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
• Language: English
• Illustrations: May include photos or diagrams

Growing & Use Notes

Keep this book in the coop, barn, or wherever you do your daily chores—it’s meant to be used regularly. Apply its principles incrementally: start with observation, refine your setup, and build toward a system that works with your land and your time.

The First 10 Copies Sold will be Signed Copies!