FAQ

Q: Why are there chickens? How long have chickens been around?

A: Chickens have been a part of chicken farm lab since 2016

Our community chicken project has provided joy for our entire neighborhood. Spending time with our feathered friends, whether simply watching them explore the pasture or engaging in gentle interactions such as hand-feeding or petting, has brought joy and tranquility into our community's daily life. 

We have partnered with Belmont Feed and Seed to distribute our fertilized eggs to local schools to hatch in the classroom, we then take the young chicks back to be raised here at Chicago Farm Lab.

Q: How do I join? 

A: You can join by filling out our gardener application form under “Contact Us”

Q: What if I have no experience gardening? 

A: That's perfectly alright! Come join us on Saturday volunteer days and and we’ll show you around

Q: What do volunteers do?

A: This usually depends on what needs to be done on any given day. Most of the time volunteers are helping to weed general areas, pick up trash, plant seeds, feed the chickens, harvest, and occasionally do construction projects.

Q: How do I become a volunteer?

A: There is no application process to become a volunteer, just be present and ready to work on Saturdays. 

Q: What should I wear? 

A: Wear clothes and footwear you don’t mind getting dirty or wet. We are not responsible for any stains or damage done to your clothing. 

Q: What is the difference between Chicago Farm Lab and Prosser School Community Garden?

A: Chicago Farm Lab is a non-profit 501c3  organization dedicated to maintaining and facilitating Prosser School Community Garden. Prosser School Community Garden located on CPS land, therefore we need to follow all the rules that apply to Chicago Public Schools. 

Q: What am I not allowed to use in my plot?

A: We do not allow the use of pesticides, herbicides, and the use of any plastic materials, we are dedicated to keeping this garden all organic. We stand by reuse, reduce, recycle. 

Q: Why are there so many bees?

A: There are bees present in many locations at Prosser School Community Garden. The bees are pollinators, they are necessary for plants to fertilize and reproduce. Please do not spray, the honey bees  are at work and are social creatures ready to defend their hive.