Backyard chicken talk cooking again in Iowa City

Something I didn't get to yesterday was a news release from New Pioneer Food Co-op on backyard chickens.

Some backyard chicken supporters in Iowa City aren't giving up even though the City Council last month said it was not interested in debating the topic, for the time being.

Now two events have been planned in March by backyard chicken advocates.

Last year, several hundred people signed a petition supporting so-called backyard or urban chickens in Iowa City. They wanted to be able to keep a few chickens in their backyards, something city law doesn't allow.

Supporters argue that raising their own chickens is environmentally friendly and saves money. Opponents say the chickens could be noisy, messy and lead to disputes between neighbors.

It's an issue that has come up in Cedar Rapids, too.

New Pioneer Food Co-op is sponsoring two events to discuss the pros and cons of backyard chickens.

From 6 to 7:30 p.m. on March 2, Misha Goodman, Iowa City's animal services director, will offer tips on how to care for chickens.

From 6 to 7:30 p.m. on March 11, two local supporters of backyard chickens will talk about the joys and challenges of raising chickens within city limits.

Both events are free, will include refreshments and will be at the

co-ops' Coralville location, 1101 Second St.