C&T Publications Eye on Fine Art Photography - July 2014 | Page 57
From Farm to Suburb, Chicken Coops Are At the Heart of the
Self-Reliance Movement
(BPT) - Americans across the country are taking strides to be more self reliant, including growing food, composting and raising
animals. While these types of activities are most often associated with people who live in the country, residents in unexpected
settings are embracing aspects of this lifestyle at increasingly fast rates.
From barn to backyard, raising chickens is the perfect example of how this momentum is building. Just a decade ago you may have
only seen chickens while driving through rural areas, but today coops seem to be popping up everywhere in suburban and city
neighborhoods. The backyard chicken movement is thriving, providing numerous benefits to those who participate.
Why consider raising chickens? It's not necessary to have a farming background in order to raise a small flock of poultry. Chickens
are inexpensive to house and feed, managing their care is surprisingly simple, and raising them is a great family-friendly activity.
Chickens in return supply nutritious, tasty eggs that are always more fresh than their grocery store counterparts, plus you can use
their waste to create organic compost, an invaluable fertilizer for your garden. Additionally, chickens eat many pesky bugs, creating
natural insect control on your property.
If you are interested in starting your own flock, here are a few tips from the experts at Tractor Supply Company:
1. Check with your city
Verify the local chicken laws and ordinances in the city where you live, plus check with your homeowner's association if you have
one. It's a good idea to make your neighbors aware of your plans, especially if you live in close proximity.
2. Start in the spring
Every spring chicks appear at Tractor Supply stores for purchase. Chick Days is an annual spring event when you can purchase baby
chicks and ducklings to start your own flock or simply visit the store to learn about backyard chickens. By working with a reputable
vendor, you'll ensure you get quality, healthy chicks. Learn more at www.tractorsupply.com/chicks. Keep in mind baby chicks need
special care - such as a warm space and special chick feed - until they feather out and can be moved into a coop.
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