The Community Chicken Coop project has been developed step-by-step through community input, collaboration with the City of Calgary, and careful planning to ensure the program is safe, responsible, and sustainable.
This timeline highlights the key milestones along the way — from the initial concept and discussions with the community association, to public engagement, grant applications, and approval to move forward with the pilot flock.
As the project progresses, new milestones will continue to be added so residents can see how the initiative evolves from idea to reality. The goal is to keep the process transparent and to document how a community-led project grows through cooperation, planning, and shared enthusiasm for local food, education, and responsible urban agriculture.
Chicken Committee Established
The WHMCA Board approved the creation of a Chicken Coop Committee to research and develop a community chicken coop initiative focused on education, sustainability, and potential alignment with City of Calgary pilot programs.
ClimateReadyYYC Grant Application Submitted
The WHMCA submitted an application to the ClimateReadyYYC grant program on the opening day to support the development of a community chicken coop and sustainability education initiative.
Meeting With ClimateReadyYYC Grant Committee
The project team met with the ClimateReadyYYC grant committee to discuss the community chicken initiative and its alignment with climate resilience and sustainability goals.
City Engagement Begins
WHMCA began discussions with the City of Calgary’s Emergency Management & Community Safety department regarding urban hen bylaws and the potential for expanded chicken allowances in support of the project.
Community Announcement
The project was publicly announced through WHMCA’s Facebook and Instagram channels, receiving strong community interest and support.
Community Donation Campaign Launched
A community fundraising campaign was launched to support early project costs and supplement grant funding for the proposed community chicken coop and run.
Government Letters of Support Received
Letters of support for the project were received from MLA Lizette Tejada, MP Corey Hogan’s office, and Calgary Ward 4 Councillor DJ Kelly.
Project Featured in Community Newsletter
A full-page article about the community chicken initiative was published in the WHMCA newsletter and delivered to all households in the neighbourhood.
Planning and Parks Coordination
City of Calgary Planning & Development Services confirmed the project is permissible under existing bylaws, and WHMCA began the permit documentation process while engaging Parks, the landowner of the community association property.
ClimateReadyYYC Grant Applications Close
The ClimateReadyYYC grant application period closes. WHMCA awaits funding decisions for the community chicken initiative.
Grant Results Expected
ClimateReadyYYC grant recipients are expected to be announced. Funding will determine the next phase of the community chicken project.
Planned Construction Window
Pending grant results and permit approvals, WHMCA plans to begin construction of the community chicken coop and run in early summer. The goal is to complete construction before the end of July 2026.
The Chickens Move In
The coop opens and the community welcomes its first flock of hens. The chickens officially become the newest residents of Winston Heights-Mountview.
Project Completion Deadline
Projects funded through the ClimateReadyYYC program must be completed by this date.
Timeline compiled by Jile Meyn, Board Secretary, 2026.