My husband is clearing a small area of the mountain for a new coop for the flock.

We are not cutting back much. Instead, we are opening only what we need. The goal is to preserve the woods around us. At the same time, we need enough room to protect the chickens well.

The new coop area will be easier to surround with electric fencing. That matters on a mountain farm. Predators do not need much encouragement around here.

This move will also help us use our current space better. The shed the chickens live in now will become goat space. One side will be a stall for Sage. The other will stay open for kids when needed.

A small separate fenced area will go with it. That gives us flexibility during kidding season. It also gives young goats a safe place when they need one.

Another benefit is better ranging space for the chickens. They will have more forest floor to scratch through and explore. Fallen leaves, bugs, and woodland edges are very much their department.

As with most projects here, one change solves several problems. This new chicken coop for the flock gives the birds a better home. The goats gain more useful shelter. And the woods stay mostly wild, which is exactly how I like them.