Bismarck Considers Allowing Backyard Chickens: A Trend Worth Clucking About
As the urban farming movement gains momentum across the United States, Bismarck, North Dakota is stepping into the spotlight by contemplating a new city ordinance that could allow residents to keep backyard chickens within city limits. This potential shift is more than just a trend; it reflects a growing desire among urban dwellers to embrace sustainable living and healthy food options.
Leroy Olzweski is among those eager for this change. He passionately cares for his flock of free-range chickens, allowing them to roam freely in a safe environment. “There’s really no fences, and they get food scraps and pretty much live the great life,” Olzweski’s wife, Sandy Summa, shared, clearly enjoying the bonds they’ve created with the birds. Adding another layer of security to their operation, guinea hens act as vigilant protectors, alerting the chickens to potential hazards.
A key highlight of Olzweski’s backyard farm is the egg production, which has turned into quite a local sensation. “In January, I started selling eggs, and I had about 25 people messaging me on Facebook looking for them. Now, every week, there’s an update on their demand,” Summa explains, revealing that some customers request five to ten 18-pack cartons at a time. Imagine the excitement of finding such fresh, local eggs at a mere for an 18-pack!
However, the journey isn’t without its challenges. Maintaining a happy and healthy flock can get costly. Baby hens can range between and , and they don’t start laying eggs until they reach seven months of age. Despite this investment, the rewards in the form of delicious, farm-fresh eggs have proven worthwhile.
As Bismarck’s city leaders deliberate on the new ordinance, numerous factors need consideration, including the number of allowed birds, cleanliness standards, and public health considerations, particularly in light of concerns related to avian flu. Bismarck City Planning Manager Daniel Nairn stated, “Our goal in drafting the ordinance is to minimize any potential impacts related to keeping chickens while addressing community concerns.”
Residents interested in joining the backyard chicken community must weigh the effort against the tangible benefits their feathered friends would provide. A public hearing is anticipated later this year, leading to a final decision on the ordinance by summer.
This budding interest in chicken-keeping isn’t just about eggs; it’s about fostering community resilience and encouraging sustainable practices. As cities across the nation look to create more green spaces and promote self-sufficiency, Bismarck’s proposal might just be the beginning of a heartwarming trend towards local, sustainable living.
Consider keeping an eye on this development, as it could inspire similar movements across other cities nationwide.
#WorldNews #Lifestyle #SustainableLiving #UrbanFarming
