Episode
985: Chickens, Compost & Food Resilience - A Rosie Replay
- Published
- May 19, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2077
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://www.urbanfarm.org/984
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Summary
A Rosie On The House Replay In this episode Romey Romero from Rosie on the House and Farmer Greg sit down with Ashley McClure and Scott Brown of Phoenix Organic Feed to talk about raising backyard chickens in the summer heat. The conversation explores heat management, predator protection, organic feed, egg production, breed selection, and why chickens are one of the best tools for local food resilience. Ashley and Scott also share the grassroots story behind Phoenix Organic Feed and how a small community feed order turned into a regional network serving thousands of chicken keepers across metro Phoenix and the Verde Valley. Key Topics Backyard chickens in desert climates Organic chicken feed and local food resilience Heat management for chickens Predator-proof chicken coops Egg production and breed selection Chickens as composters and pest control Food security through backyard farming Phoenix Organic Feed community distribution model Rhode Island Red chickens Leghorn chickens Raising meat birds vs. egg layers Electrolytes and hydration for poultry Victory Gardens and modern homesteading Key Questions Answered Why should people keep chickens in their backyard? Chickens provide eggs, protein, compost, pest control, entertainment, and a stronger connection to food production. The guests describe chickens as a practical step toward food resilience and self-sufficiency. Can chickens survive desert heat? Yes. Chickens can adapt to desert climates when they have shade, cool water, ventilation, electrolyte support, and ways to cool their feet. Breed selection also matters because heavier feathered birds struggle more in extreme heat. What are the biggest mistakes new chicken keepers make? Underestimating heat stress, failing to predator-proof coops, and not planning for chick…