'Old-School' Farming is Back

One day I want to raise chickens of my own. Three years ago, such a statement may have raised an eyebrow, but as technology has boomed (along with gas and grocery prices) more people are putting away their iPhones and paying more attention to the world around them.

I grew up with chickens, ducks and geese. In the last few years, my parents have added guinea fowl to the mix. While I’ve admittedly complained about the times I’ve been on “bird duty” while my family is away, my appreciation of them has grown as I’ve gotten older. Friends are often impressed by how personable chickens are. How ironic that a lifestyle that was once the norm is now en vogue, especially for 20-and-30-somethings.

Still, to some, raising a few hens seems as exotic as caring for a Bengal tiger. I can assure them that raising chickens is about as easy as caring for a cat. They’re also a lot more economical. As New York State farmer and author Jenna Woginrich notes, for the price of buying a dozen organic eggs for $6, you can buy a handful of laying chicks from your local feed store for less than $10. They’ll start producing within six months, laying up to once a day. You do the math. And no, you don’t need a rooster for a chicken to lay eggs.

Zoning regulations vary from state and county, so make sure you check with your local town to see what the rules are. The USDA has a rural development initiative for individuals to literally buy into the country lifestyle. They also offer incentives for small rural businesses with the objective of rescuing a way of life blighted, some say, by the suburban sprawl of the last few decades.

Interested in learning more? You’d be surprised by how many folks are willing to help!

In the meantime, see you from a place someday out in the country!