I have been a proud owner of urban chickens and ducks for the past two years, only to discover that owning ducks is illegal in Cedar Rapids. This revelation was not just surprising but deeply upsetting. Ducks, like chickens, can be an important part of our urban ecosystems. They provide natural pest control and their droppings can serve as excellent fertilizer for gardens.

In Linn County, where Cedar Rapids is located, owning urban ducks is perfectly legal. It's time we align the city's laws with those of the county to allow responsible duck ownership within city limits.

Urban farming has seen a rise across America with 1% of its population (3 million people) now raising chickens or ducks at home according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (2018). It's time that Cedar Rapids joins this sustainable movement by allowing its citizens to own urban ducks.

Please sign this petition if you believe in supporting local food systems and promoting sustainable living practices in our community. Let us make it legal for residents of Cedar Rapids to own and care for these wonderful creatures.

Owning backyard ducks can be beneficial for several reasons:

Pest control: Ducks eat insects, slugs, and other pests, helping to naturally control pests in your yard or garden.

Eggs: Many duck breeds lay delicious and nutritious eggs, providing a fresh source of protein for your household.

Fertilizer: Duck droppings make excellent fertilizer, enriching the soil in your garden.

Entertainment: Ducks are entertaining and enjoyable to watch, especially if you have space for them to roam and explore.

Low maintenance: Ducks are generally easy to care for, requiring less maintenance compared to some other pets.

Companionship: Ducks can be friendly and sociable pets, forming bonds with their owners and other animals.

Educational opportunities: Raising ducks can be a valuable learning experience for children and adults alike, teaching responsibility and animal care skills.