Middle America's Worldview

Michigan’s new changes to remove their “Farm Act” protection will have serious consequences for many urban and suburban backyard farmers, who raise small numbers of animals. The backyard and urban farming was protected by Michigan’s Right to Farm Act, but no longer.

Kim White, who raises chickens and rabbits, said, “They don’t want us little guys feeding ourselves. They want us to go all to the big farms. They want to do away with small farms and I believe that is what’s motivating it.”

Specifically, the new ruling will allow local governments to ban goats, chickens and beehives on any property where there are 13 homes within one eighth mile or a residence within 250 feet of the property. The ruling is not simply an urban or suburban concern.

A six and half acre home to 150 hens, providing eggs to a local co-op and local restaurant will also be affected. Shady Grove Farm, in Gwinn, Michigan also provides wool from sheep, a few turkeys and chicken for meat to provide fresh local poultry, in addition to their 150 laying hens. Randy Buchler told The Blaze about Shady Grove Farm. “Everything we do here is 100 percent natural — we like to say it’s beyond organic. We take a lot of pride and care in what we’re doing here.”

The UN Farming Report in 2010 called for more organic and small-scale farmers in the food systems and an answer to feeding the world.

Chefs are also pushing more local farmers and push for “farm to table”.

Many Americans are attempting to start growing out of their own backyards, providing additional home-grown vegetables, and fresh eggs for their families, as food prices increase. Rosalind Creasy grew in her 100-square foot garden in 2008 was $683.43.

Yet, in a special session, the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development removed the Right to Farm projection for their citizens. The vote, 4-1, approved the Site Selection Generally AcceptedAgriculture Management Practices (GAAMPs) which included the controversial, “if the site is determined to be primarily residential, and zoning doesn’t allow agriculture as a use by right.”