Backyard Chicken Farming booms in the Coachella Valley
INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) - Despite a steady drop in wholesale egg prices, many California shoppers say they're still paying high prices at the store. In the Coachella Valley, an increasing number of frustrated shoppers are turning to backyard chicken farming for some solace during these 'egg-spensive' times.
Driven by a mix of avian flu outbreaks, supply chain disruptions, and state regulations, the volatility of the egg market has left many scrambling. Despite a reported decline in wholesale prices over the past three months, some shoppers say the retail decline hasn't translated to retail prices on grocery store shelves.
“Egg prices have been through the roof,” said Sgt. Michael Casavan of the Palm Springs Police Department.
By day, he’s a police officer with the Palm Springs Police Department.
Off the clock?
A backyard chicken farmer.
“We have about 20, maybe 24 chickens,” Casavan said. “It’s a bit of work, but worth it.”
He isn't alone either.
Desert Feed Bag, a pet services and products store in Indio, is seeing an uptick in aspiring backyard chicken farmers walk through the doors in recent months.
“We’ve seen about a 200% increase,” said Jodi Bemis, owner of Desert Feed Bag, said. “People will wait in the store for over an hour just to get first pick of chickens.”
But while backyard chickens may offer a reliable supply of eggs, experts say it's not as easy as it seems, and sometimes can come with heartbreak.
“Raising chickens starts with a small cage, some feed, and a heat lamp,” said Donnie Gonsalves, a self described small, part-time backyard chicken farmer. “But that’s just the beginning.”
Donnie Gonsalvez recalled losing most of his flock to a coyote attack.
He also encourages aspiring backyard chicken farmers to look into local city ordinances before taking up the hobby. Cities may limit the number of hens allowed, and roosters are often prohibited.
“Unless you enjoy HOA drama, stick with hens,” added Bemis.
Despite the hurdles, Gonsalves says the experience, can be well worth it for you and your family.
“I took out my phone and saw a hen drop an egg right in front of me. I’d never seen that happen in person before — it was cool.”
While backyard flocks won’t fix California’s egg economy overnight, for many in the Coachella Valley, they offer something store shelves can’t - stability.
Tune into News Channel 3 tonight at 4, 5, 6, and 6:30pm for the full story.
