3 Hens, No Roosters Proposed For Boonsboro Coops

BOONSBORO, Md. (AP) -- A proposal to allow chickens to be raised in backyards is dividing residents in the small western Maryland town of Boonsboro.

The Herald-Mail of Hagerstown reports the proposal discussed at a public hearing Monday would allow residents to keep three hens, but not any roosters. The hens would have to be kept in an enclosure 20 feet from property lines and owners would have to register with the state.

Opponents of the proposal say residents should move out of town if they want to raise chickens, citing concerns about the mess it will create.

Susan Reynolds says she supports the proposal, adding there have always been tensions in town between newcomers and natives.

Council members are expected to vote on the proposal on Sept. 6.

Information from: The Herald-Mail of Hagerstown, Md., http://www.herald-mail.com

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