Published: May 09, 2008 09:03 pm         

An inconvenient truth about ag operations

Although family farms are dwindling, agriculture still has a significant presence in Indiana. Ongoing efforts are needed to minimize residential conflict with agricultural operations.

Some naive property purchasers have an idyllic view of the rural areas, hoping to leave behind the noise of vehicles and the hustle and bustle of city life.

But then they encounter the sounds of tractors in the fields until late in the evening, and the unpleasant aroma of manure wafting along on the summer breeze. Perhaps there is a nearby hog operation that offers an even more distinct odor.

Elkhart County planners are working on updating a subdivision ordinance, and an agricultural statement is proposed for inclusion in the ordinance.

The statement describes various agricultural operations and is intended to warn those who are in the market to purchase a subdivision lot in an agricultural area.

“Lot owners in this subdivision should be prepared to accept such inconveniences or discomfort as a normal and necessary aspect of living in an agricultural area,” the statement concludes.

Those who desire “country living” should be aware that farmers were there first. And those selling real estate should be encouraged to point out that rural living could have some disadvantages.

The agricultural statement is not a complete remedy for fixing the conflict that occurs when farmers and homeowners are at odds. But it does provide awareness of the potential for problems, and it is helpful to have a written warning that specifically addresses inconveniences that may accompany rural living.