Help chicken keepers in Sewanee TN

Katherine Alvarez, of Sewanee TN, was told a few weeks ago that she could no longer keep her chickens. From reading her blog it appears that she has a lease agreement with the university that she works for, and that agreement does not allow for the keeping of livestock. (Read more at her blog) This particular case brings up the issue again of what we define livestock to be, or if certain kinds of "livestock" should be allowed in urban settings. This case is different in that it is not a city ordinance being challenged, but rather a lease agreement between a university and one of their employees. In her blog Katherine also states how the university has plans in the works to become "more sustainable". It seems that allowing backyard chickens is one step towards sustainability that the university could consider.

If you want to help out and write a letter by July 15th, follow Katherine's instructions below (from her blog): You can write a letter or send an email to be received by July 15, 2008 to: Lease Committee c/o Barbara Schlichting 735 University Ave Sewanee, TN 37383 or bschlich@sewanee.edu PLEASE, only send serious messages. We want to make a change, not bother Barbara with funny, irrelevant or harassing correspondence. If you want your opinion to be considered by the lease committee, you must give your name and address - not that you'll be contacted, but I want to stress the fact that this is not the place to be amusing. It would be helpful if you stated your relationship to this cause and or Sewanee and the University. Good Luck Katherine and Sawanee!