For years, my daughter has been asking for a duck as her birthday present, captivated by their charm and uniqueness. As parents, we want to bring joy and meaningful experiences to our children, and so, we delved into the world of duck ownership. What we discovered was surprising and enlightening.

Domesticated ducks offer numerous benefits beyond the joy they bring as pets. They are excellent layers, often surpassing the egg production of traditional chickens. Ducks are naturally excellent pest controllers, safeguarding our gardens from unwanted insects without the need for harmful pesticides. Furthermore, duck manure is rich in nutrients, serving as a superior fertilizer to enhance the health of our gardens.

However, we were dismayed to learn that our local regulations in Hanover Borough prevent us from owning domesticated ducks. The current permit only allows for chickens, overlooking the manifold advantages of including ducks—a missed opportunity for our community to engage more sustainably with our environment.

With this petition, we urge the Hanover Borough Council to amend the existing chicken permit to include domesticated ducks. Embracing ducks in our community fosters sustainable practices, supports local agriculture, and offers educational opportunities for children to learn about animal husbandry and environmental stewardship.

Statistically, towns like us have successfully integrated domesticated ducks into their policies, resulting in no significant increase in complaints or issues. Communities such as Lancaster and Bethlehem have embraced these changes with positive feedback from households benefiting from fresh eggs and lower pest activity.

Let us come together to make Hanover a more inclusive and progressive place for diverse animal husbandry. By signing this petition, you are supporting a family’s dream, enriching the lives of our children, and fostering a healthier, more sustainable community.

Please join us in urging the Hanover Borough Council to adjust their permit regulations and help us bring the joy and benefits of domesticated ducks into our homes. Sign the petition and be part of a positive change!