Egg prices are a hot topic with prices skyrocketing, and that has many of us considering getting backyard chickens to produce our own eggs. As well, many people want to know exactly where their eggs are coming from. This all leads to an uptick in people wanting to own backyard chickens. Over the past few years, the Treasure Valley has seen a rise in the number of people hatching their own plans to raise chickens. Whether it’s the appeal of fresh eggs, a more sustainable lifestyle, or the joy of raising animals, urban and suburban chicken-keeping has become a popular trend in Boise and surrounding communities.
Why Are So Many People Raising Chickens?
The movement toward raising backyard chickens isn’t just about fresh eggs—it’s a reflection of a growing interest in self-sufficiency, sustainability, and a closer connection to food sources. Many homeowners love the idea of reducing their reliance on grocery stores while also knowing exactly where their eggs come from. Plus, chickens can be great for reducing food waste, as they happily consume many kitchen scraps.
You no longer need to live on a farm to raise chickens. Instead, your own backyard, perhaps right in the middle of a Boise neighborhood, could be the new home to your own small flock. Many of us have pursued growing our own food by adding fruit and vegetable gardens to our backyards. But recently, the addition of fresh eggs from your own chickens has grown in popularity.
As well, for families with children, chickens provide a unique way to teach kids responsibility and an appreciation for animals. Many chicken owners also find the daily routines of feeding, cleaning, and egg collection to be a rewarding and even therapeutic experience.
Chickens in the Treasure Valley
Boise and its surrounding areas are known for their appreciation of outdoor living, agriculture, and sustainability—making backyard chickens a perfect fit. In cities like Boise, Meridian, Eagle, and Nampa, homeowners with enough yard space have embraced the idea of keeping small backyard flocks. The trend remains popular in more rural areas, where larger properties allow for more extensive chicken coops and free-ranging flocks.
Benefits of backyard chickens
- Eggs: Chickens provide fresh eggs
- Fertilizer: Chicken manure can be used as organic fertilizer in gardens
- Pets: Chickens can be lively pets with personalities
- Food sourcing: Chickens can be part of local food sourcing systems
What You Need to Know Before Getting Chickens
Wouldn’t you like to step outside your door and get fresh eggs for your breakfast every morning? If you’re raising chickens in your own backyard, you can! While it can be fun and egg-citing, it does take some preparation and commitment.
Before jumping into chicken ownership, there are a few important things to consider:
- Local Ordinances: Boise allows backyard chickens, but there are specific regulations regarding the number of birds, coop placement, and noise restrictions (roosters are often not permitted within city limits). Other cities in the Treasure Valley have similar guidelines, so checking with local ordinances is a must.
- Space and Shelter: Chickens need a secure coop with adequate ventilation, protection from predators, and enough space to roam.
- Time Commitment: Like any pet, chickens require daily care, including feeding, cleaning, and health monitoring.
- Egg Production Expectations: While fresh eggs are a huge benefit, production varies by breed, season, and the age of the chicken.
Resources for New Chicken Owners
For those new to raising chickens, there are several local resources to help get started:
- D&B Supply and The Boise Co-Op offer chicken feed, supplies, and knowledgeable staff to answer questions.
- Treasure Valley Backyard Chickens (a local Facebook group) provides a community of chicken enthusiasts who share advice and experiences.
- Local Feed Stores often carry baby chicks in the spring and can offer guidance on choosing the right breeds.
- University of Idaho Extension Office offers educational materials on chicken care and urban farming.
Final Thoughts
Backyard chickens are more than just a trend—they represent a shift toward sustainable living and a deeper connection to food production. In a place like Boise, where outdoor lifestyles and community-minded living are highly valued, it’s no surprise that more homeowners are welcoming chickens into their backyards.