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Oshkosh board notes rise in backyard poultry permits, declining bee renewals and plans bird-flu outreach
Summary
Staff reported an increase in chicken/duck permits and only one bee renewal in 2024; board asked staff to coordinate with the health department on bird-flu communications and to include best-practice guidance with permit renewals.
City staff told the Sustainability Advisory Board that permit activity shows a continued interest in backyard poultry but very few beekeeping registrations this year.
A staff member said the city had “a lot more chicken/duck permits than B permits” in the most recent reporting period and that the office issued 20 new duck permits this year and one active bee renewal. The board discussed whether the low number of beekeeping permits reflects winter hive losses, rules complexity, or waning interest.
Members raised concern about highly pathogenic avian influenza and asked the board to coordinate with the city health department on public information. A board member said the recent bird-flu developments warranted preemptive outreach; a staff member agreed and said she would contact the health department and consider adding best-management and biosecurity guidance to permit-renewal notices.
Board members also suggested inviting local beekeepers to share lessons learned on hive overwintering and disease, and to explore outreach at the farmer’s market and through community events.
