In the last few weeks Urban Chickens have really been making their mark on Salt Lake City.
Check out come of the recent articles:
Plenty of squawks over Salt Lake County chicken-coop proposal
Clearfield Chickens Out
I also want to offer up some of the top reasons I have heard for Urban Chicken keeping:
Local Source of Protein. When it comes to supplying your own source of protein, it's impossible to get your dog to lay breakfast each morning or fit a cow in your backyard. That's why chickens are so wonderful! They are small, easy to care for, and won't take up your entire yard. Chickens provide protein rich eggs!
Better Quality. Fresh foods simply taste better! Also, when you raise your own eggs and meat, you know what the animal ate, its living conditions, and how it was treated. No need to worry about food safety, antibiotics, or hormones.
Source of Fertilizer. Chicken poop is high in nitrogen and great for your compost pile. Supply your yard or garden with compost made from chicken poop and watch your plants flourish!
Natural Pest Control. Got cockroaches, tomato horn worms, aphids, grubs, or any other pest you don't want in your yard or garden? Chickens are great at controlling these pests naturally- no need to put chemicals in your yard.
It’s fun! Chickens can provide a breath of fresh air in our busy urban lifestyles. Just like cats and dogs, chickens have personalities and can be great companions. If you can't keep indoor pets, chickens are a wonderful alternative with the added benefit of providing food.
Urban Chicken keeping is a great opportunity for residents to become a part of the local food movement and take pride in the food they are providing for their families and friends. If you’re interested in urban chicken keeping, find out what the regulations in your area.
If you need some ideas on where to get started check out the upcoming Urban Chicken events at Wasatch Community Gardens.
Urban Chicken Keeping Workshop
4th Annual Tour de Coops
A special thanks to www.urbanchickens.org for inspiring and providing some of my urban chicken information.
-Kandace Davis
Community Outreach Vista
Wasatch Community Gardens
