

By Today in Fort Smith Staff Writer
new trend is sweeping the River Valley and eastern Oklahoma—raising backyard chickens for fresh, homegrown eggs. What began as a hobby for a handful of families has quickly become a popular pursuit, as more and more residents in the region are building chicken coops, tending to their flocks, and enjoying the benefits of fresh eggs right from their backyards.
This growing movement, driven by a desire for sustainable living, has taken root across the River Valley, including towns like Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, and Poteau, Oklahoma. With grocery prices on the rise, many see backyard chickens as a way to cut down on food costs while maintaining control over what their family consumes.
"I love knowing exactly where my eggs come from," said Melanie Williams, a resident of Alma. "Plus, there's something incredibly rewarding about taking care of your own flock and collecting eggs every morning."
Williams, like many others, was initially inspired by the rise of self-sufficient living during the COVID-19 pandemic, when supply chains were disrupted and food shortages highlighted the importance of local sourcing. The trend has only gained momentum since then, with more people in rural and urban areas alike discovering the joys of raising chickens for both their practicality and as a fun, family-friendly activity.
While some residents cite financial savings as a key motivator, others are drawn to the health benefits. Backyard eggs, often touted for their superior taste and nutritional value, contain higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins when compared to their store-bought counterparts. Additionally, raising chickens without the use of antibiotics or harmful chemicals provides families with a natural, organic alternative.
The trend has also extended beyond just egg production. Many chicken owners enjoy the companionship that chickens bring, treating them as pets just as much as livestock. Children, in particular, have found joy in learning how to care for their feathered friends, and chicken coops have become a staple of many backyards, blending in with the aesthetic of homesteading culture.
Local feed stores and co-op markets have also seen an uptick in business as more residents search for chicken feed, coops, and supplies. "We've definitely seen a rise in demand for chicken-related products over the past couple of years," said Jerry Foster, owner of a feed store in Fort Smith. "People are getting serious about it, and we’re happy to help with everything from chick feed to building coops."
However, raising backyard chickens isn’t without its challenges. Residents need to be mindful of local regulations and zoning laws, which vary from town to town.
In Fort Smith, for example, there are specific ordinances in place regarding how many chickens a household can own and how close coops can be to neighbors' properties. In eastern Oklahoma, the rules are more lenient, particularly in rural areas, but still, responsible ownership is crucial to maintaining harmony in neighborhoods.
Additionally, ensuring the health and safety of the flock is vital. Chickens are susceptible to predators, such as raccoons and hawks, and require proper shelter, food, and care to thrive. Veterinary care for chickens can also be more limited compared to traditional pets, so local poultry owners often connect through social media groups or meetups to share tips, tricks, and advice for keeping their flocks healthy.
Despite these hurdles, the backyard chicken trend shows no signs of slowing down. As more residents across the River Valley and eastern Oklahoma embrace the idea of farm-fresh eggs from their own flocks, the movement is not just about raising chickens but also fostering a closer connection to the food they consume and the land they live on.
With rising interest in sustainable, locally sourced food, raising chickens has become more than just a fad—it’s a way of life that reflects the values of independence, self-reliance, and community.
— Today in Fort Smith
