As the noise increases about non-traditional-sourced ‘meat’ proteins, increasing pressure on source and production practices, the livestock industry remains under fire. Urban sprawl and the conversion of farm property to acreages encroach on buffer areas next to livestock production facilities.
Iowa attorney Eldon McAfee says agricultural nuisance lawsuits in Iowa are hovering around the same level they have for the past five years. His tips reflect the efforts of the past 30-plus years to mitigate nuisance issues with livestock production locations.
Source: PORK, January 25, 2019. Link. McAfee offered seven tips to help avoid a nuisance lawsuit:
- Consider location carefully when adding new buildings
- Use trees as buffers
- Pay attention to ventilation management
- Manage manure
- Keep it clean
- Manage mortalities
- Work with your neighbors
INSIGHTS: Like it or not, poop smells. Animal health pros remain the first line of education about animal production. Whether its swine, poultry, cattle or small ruminants, educating about buffers and manure management practices is critical to getting along in the country.