Group Wants Pierre to Allow ‘Urban Chickens’

PIERRE, S.D. — More and more people are looking for healthier, more organic foods to replace the highly processed and synthetic fare being offered at the local supermarket. This has led one group in Pierre to push the city to allow residents to raise chickens regardless of where they live.

According to the Associated Press, KCCR radio reports the Greater Oahe Action League is holding a public meeting on Aug. 27 in Pierre to get comments on the issue of urban chickens.

Opponents of the plan are concerned about the smell and the possible noise issues, especially in regards to roosters that are known to crow. They are also worried about how the presence of chickens in an urban setting could affect property values.

Last year Pierre commissioners defeated a proposal that would have allowed residents to keep six chickens, but no roosters.

Chicken advocate Anne Lewis told the Associated Press that "the current draft of the ordinance calls some changes, such as larger setbacks from neighboring residences."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.