That's the way I feed shells. Don't forget, if you eat clams, you can crush those shells, too. I don't know the calcium content of them, but they make nice grit for the birds. Chickens know when they have "enough" calcium ingested.
If you're incubating, you may want to keep she shell away...
You are absolutely right, they will drink that liquid just like water and will get the nutrition that comes with it.
Their bodies know what they need. They may not even go to the water trough, unless it's really hot. Try to keep their water cool, as if you were going to drink it.
Hey, CT, if you're going for weight, don't go high protein, they will get the protein they need and stop eating. If ypou look back a few posts, you'll see where this has been addressed in length. They also discussed milk fermentation. If I remember correctly, it wasn't recommended very...
This http://www.webstaurantstore.com/20-qt-tapered-aluminum-vegetable-colander-with-handles/88538013.html should work for you.
If not, go here: http://www.webstaurantstore.com/3051/colanders.html
There are all kinds. Have fun with your chicks.
If your feed "slops" all over the place, you're using too much water. You only want to dampen the feed. I would put the feed in the bucket and then add water enough to wet it all, the feed will soak up the water, but you do not need more. This may be the reason for "runny" birds. Diarrhea is...
IMO, if you deal with the Amish or Mennonites, you cannot go wrong. DO NOT listen to the government mandated GMO BS, etc. I have numerous friends in their communities and they have NEVER steered me wrong.