***UNDER CONSTRUCTION***
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Why We Are Here
In 2011, City Plan, our community's comprehensive plan, was updated. The new plan contained four goals related to local food production. The goals were to permit urban agriculture in all zone districts, allow farmers' markets in more zone districts, allow ducks as well as chickens for egg production, and allow two dwarf goats per property. Hundreds of citizens had a voice in making these decisions, but since the city implemented these new amendments in July of 2013 only four home owners have filed for permits for goats, and about 20 for chickens.
What barriers still exist to prevent people from raising backyard animals?
The most obvious ones are knowledge, followed by time, and then finances.
Raising animals is a fun and rewarding activity, but if you haven't worked with animals before it is hard to decide where to begin, and to know if you are making the right choices. It is also very time consuming, especially if you are a parent or have a full time job. Then there is money. Most people consider animals a hobby, and expect to lose money maintaining them.
We are here to overcome those barriers that still exist. We will provide you with the time and knowledge needed to take care of your animals, as well as making sure it is financially viable.
What barriers still exist to prevent people from raising backyard animals?
The most obvious ones are knowledge, followed by time, and then finances.
Raising animals is a fun and rewarding activity, but if you haven't worked with animals before it is hard to decide where to begin, and to know if you are making the right choices. It is also very time consuming, especially if you are a parent or have a full time job. Then there is money. Most people consider animals a hobby, and expect to lose money maintaining them.
We are here to overcome those barriers that still exist. We will provide you with the time and knowledge needed to take care of your animals, as well as making sure it is financially viable.
Animals make yards more children-friendly as well. Of course, kids love playing with goats and chickens, as well as collecting fresh eggs and milk. Plus, they learn about where their food comes from and the importance of sustainable food sources. You'll no longer have to spray your yard with toxic chemicals, because the animals provide all your fertilizer and take care of weeds.
Along with local food, our other passion is community. Food has been the basis for building community for generations. Our vision is a network of families growing their own food, and trading or collaborating so that everyone has access to what they need. Maybe your neighbor has a garden, and you've decided to buy chickens. Your neighbor gives you the leftover plants from the garden to feed your chickens and you provide nutrient-dense manure in return. They share the bounty of vegetables, you share the eggs, the family across the street shares the milk from their goats, and everyone wins.