Economic downturn has led to chicken coops

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[The economic downturn has caused people to consider producing food for themselves to reduce the strain.

Tractor Supply Company officials say an example that is becoming increasingly popular - even in suburban areas - is a backyard chicken coop, according to a news release. In response, TSC is reintroducing its popular Chick Days events starting March 15 at the local store. Chick Days will run through April 25.

Keeping chickens in rural areas of Saline County is common and OK, but a chicken coop inside municipal limits could lead city officials to cry fowl.

It is a violation of public ordinance to keep livestock, including chickens, in the city of Harrisburg or the village of Carrier Mills.

Both towns, however, have properties that are outside city limits but surrounded by property inside city limits. Those properties are not subject to village or city ordinances regarding livestock. In Carrier Mills, at least one of those properties has geese.

Chickens are not expressly forbidden in Eldorado, but birds that produce frequent or continual noise, or that causes odors, are a violation of the city's nuisance ordinance.

Galatia residents need to check with village officials - Police Chief Mike Herron could not immediately be reached for comment.

The TSC news release indicates concerns about noise and smell can be minimized.

"Many people are initially concerned about the smell or noise involved in raising backyard chickens, but it's actually not the chickens that smell, but what they leave behind, just like any other pet or animal," the news release said. "So, a clean coop is certainly important in that regard.

Concerns over noise pollution aren't warranted either due to the fact that roosters aren't necessary for hens to produce eggs - something your neighbors will appreciate during the early morning hours."

For those who can raise chickens, a flock of 15 hens will produce about a dozen eggs per day during their peak, according to the news release. Chickens may also provide fresh fertilizer, composting material and insect control.

Some essential planning is necessary prior to buying your first chicks. A well-constructed coop is necessary to keep chickens productive and safe from predators. And while chickens are relatively low-maintenance, chickens require regular feeding and watering and a clean coop, the news release indicated.

-- On the Web: www.tractorsupply.com/ChickDays