By JASON TIDD

Staff writer

Allowing ducks in Marion city limits could require getting one’s ducks in a row for an equation.

Under a draft ordinance presented to the city council Monday, ducks would be allowed, but with a limit.

If approved, up to 20 domestic fowl may live at a residence. However, one duck would be equal to four chickens.

Jason and Tiffany Ivy requested a waiver to the city fowl ordinance, which allows up to 20 chickens with zero ducks, when they moved to Marion. Tiffany Ivy has a “severe allergic reaction” to chicken eggs, and duck eggs comprise a large part of her diet.

They have six ducks and two chickens. The chickens prevent rodents that could become a problem because of duck bedding.

Under the proposal, where one duck equals four chickens with a limit of 20, the Ivys would either have to get rid of two ducks or both chickens and a duck.

Mayor Todd Heitschmidt asked for clarification from city attorney Susan Robson on water requirements for drinking and cooling off. She was absent from the meeting.

Jason Ivy said not as much water is required as may be assumed.

“All you need is enough water for them to completely submerge their head,” Ivy said, “because when they eat they get food and stuff in their nostrils and they have to be able to blow that back out.

“It is better for their well-being if they do have a little water to play in. It makes them a little happier.”

Male chickens are not allowed, but male ducks would be. Ivy said male ducks do not make loud noises similar to those of roosters.

City administrator Roger Holter said Robson’s research suggested there was little difference between making the duck-to-chicken equivalent three or four.

“That was my only concern, the number issue,” Ivy said. “Other than that, I think it’s really good. I think it covers just about everything that you would have to worry about. I do appreciate this a lot.”