It’s no secret that having animals also brings flies, dust, noise, and odors. Living on the farm, many of us barely noticed these nuisances, but odds are your neighbors do. Rural areas are becoming urbanized, making the relationship between farmers and neighbors that much more important. “Increasingly, farmers are being forced to consider air-quality concerns in developing manure management plans,” said Jactone Arogo Ogejo, an extension specialist in a Virginia Cooperative Extension article.

Every neighbor is different, with some having grown up in the farming area, and some who are new to living in a rural community. Having new neighbors can bring challenges, especially if they are not used to the smells and busy seasons that are associated with agriculture. This can lead to tense relationships between farmers and their neighbors.

“How you handle your business on your farm may impact how you resolve conflicts related to your farm,” Arogo-Ogejo advised. She suggests being proactive and implement good management practices that promote the benefits of the farm to the neighbors as well as notifying neighbors ahead of when you will be beginning operations, including your manure application schedule. “People are much more accommodating if issues are addressed ahead of time, even if it is something they do not particularly like,” cited the extension specialist.

As tractors and implements begin to hit the road this spring, having a two-way understanding between neighbor and farmer is critical for maintaining a good working relationship. Use this as an opportunity to educate those who aren’t familiar with the sights and sounds of farm life. After all, their opinion is often a result of the things they observe, and communication plus action helps foster positivity.