Introduction

Joel Salatin, author of Pastured Poultry Profit$, is a Virginia "pro" pastured poultry farmer. Pasturing poultry (and other livestock) is what he does to earn a living for himself and his family, besides selling books! He is likely the most famous authority in the pastured poultry world.

(Special thanks for this photo of Mr. Salatin and his pen go out to Mr T.L. Gettings from whom permission was granted for MCPF to use this picture.)

Design

This tractor design suits the needs of many people fairly well. It has a large area, capable of holding a good deal of birds. The drawbacks, however, are that the pen somewhat difficult to build because of its complexity, and some people find it difficult or too strenuous to move this pen in this way. It is relatively heavy, though manageable for a strong, healthy adult. Very even, flat ground is needed for this broad pen if predators are nearby. If there are any significant low areas under which a predator might enter the pen, they can be blocked off with some lumber or other material.

It can be ascertained from the picture that the Salatins use gravity founts for the birds, which can save some work when it comes to watering the birds. The only drawback to this feature is the initial cost of the fount. Most tractor (pastured poultry pen) designs can be adapted to include such a watering system.

Conclusion

The Salatin tractor design is best suited for those who wish to grow a lot of birds, and have the strength to manage the large pen. Those looking for a lighter or simpler design should investigate some of the other options.