February 18, 2009
US recession drives growing interest in small poultry flocks
Public interest in raising small poultry flocks are increasing despite the ongoing recession in the US.
Kansas State University poultry specialist Scott Beyer said he is receiving many phone calls and emails asking about raising small chicken flocks.
Many phone calls are from people who have little experience raising livestock, while some others are from people who once had a flock and wanted to keep chickens again, Beyer said.
The increased interest begun in 2007 when grain prices escalated and grocery store egg prices soared, Beyer said, adding that interest in egg and poultry meat has continued even when egg and feed prices cooled down.
Beyer said economy appears to be a key reason behind the trend, as some people have expressed a need to feel more self-sufficient amid the poor economy while some others wanted to consume only locally-grown foods.
Other reasons include reducing carbon footprint, not wanting to purchase foods that require long distance travelling, and a wish to consume fresh foods grown locally in season for improved nutrition, better taste, support of local farms and for animal welfare concerns.
