Chickens In The City

Yesterday was a glorious day, almost spring-like. The air was sweet. The wind off the Lake, a gentle breeze, and the temperature, a balmy -10C. Late last night, a little snow fell, refreshing the foot or so already on the ground. A good day for walking, so even a trip to the supermaket for eggs, is enjoyable.

I'd rather be able to step out my backdoor, take a few steps and be at my own backyard chicken coop where I could gather my own eggs. They may not be free range, but, they would be close. One of the things I miss here, in Thunder Bay, is a marketplace, such as Kensington Market in Toronto where you got closer to the source of your food than your average grocery store.

There is an effort underway to create a permanent farmers' market here but it has a long way to go and even so I'd still prefer to raise my own livestock within the citylimits.

On a global scale small scale urban farms, which include a variety of livestock are increasing in number and enabling people to improve their control over their own food supply.

Bees provide honey and help pollinate the crops. I've always wanted to keep bees but am looking for a larger backyard before I make the attempt. I'm not sure how well guests and I will relax with an active hive within ten feet of our activities.

If the city permitted it, I'd give some serious consideration to buying a pair of goats for their milk and to make cheese. We could always sell the surplus or better yet trade it with our neighbours. To date, there are a number of rules and regulations that need to be thought about so goats are out for now.

Perhaps, what is needed is a common ground where people can keep livestock in a way that is benefical for everyone.

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