Rusty, I have both layers and meat birds. We have hatched a couple batches and have around 60 birds now. The young birds that are roosters will be meat birds, and probably a few of the hens as well. We have the birds mostly to eat the grasshoppers and other bugs out of the orchards.
Matthew, as far as prep goes, here is my plan. I already skinned and gutted the carp and removed the head, tails, and fins. I have them soaking in a huge pan in the fridge. Tomorrow I will boil them until the meat falls off of the bones. Some will go to the chickens, but I plan on trying to makes some spiced fish cakes with some as well. We will see how that works.