Our neighbor to the north is getting into the urban farming business, too. Vancouver just approved a plan to allow its citizens to raise backyard chickens within the city’s limits. Seattle has been out in front on this trend where it’s been legal for years to keep backyard poultry — we reported on a recent 15th Ave coop building party. But up in Canada, the decision was highly controversial :
Councillors voted almost unanimously in favour of a 32-page staff report detailing everything from coop sizes to the creation of a $20,000 shelter for abandoned chickens.
The report cites increasing attention to issues of “sustainability, food security, and consumption of locally grown food” as the source of enthusiasm for urban chickens.
Chicken keepers would be required to register with the city, and provide chickens – hens only, roosters will not be allowed — with adequate food, water, light and veterinary care.
COPE councillors Ellen Woodsworth and David Cadman supported the motion, but opposed the creation of a city-run chicken shelter.
“I am not prepared to support the city of Vancouver getting into the business of housing abandoned or seized hens. I just think that is a pandora’s box that if we open it will grow and grow and grow.” Cadman said.
CHS hadn’t yet considered the abandoned chicken angle and will check in with Seattle Animal Control to see what the city does with its feral or seized fowl. Meanwhile, we finally get to gloat about being ahead of Vancouver in this urban lifestyle trend. Still some catching up to do with Portland, however. Their 2010 Tour de Coops event showcasing urban chicken farming in the city is July 24th.
Our local chicken coop tour is on July 10: http://seattletilth.org/special_events/citychickenscooptour2. Seattle Tilth has been running this event for several years. It’s not too late to apply to show off your own backyard hens: http://seattletilth.org/special_events/cooptourhosts.
I always thought it was a great idea. Though I too hadn’t thought about the abandoned chicken/hen problem. I agree with the point that a city shouldn’t get in the business of running a chicken shelter, as it could get ugly fast. I don’t see what the big deal is though, can’t you just give them away to the local soup kitchens? If they’re unfit for consumption, then just dispose (are chickens compostable?).