Revised:  11/12/2009

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Tiffany J. Cody Public Relations Specialist Rutgers Equine Science Center 732-932-9419 cody@njaes.rutgers.edu

Publication Offers Advice for Farmers on Avoiding Conflicts With Neighbors and Towns

New Brunswick, N.J. – The New Jersey State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) recently developed a publication offering helpful tips for farmers on how to avoid conflicts with neighbors. The publication includes advice from more than 50 farmers sharing their thoughts and experience on how to avoid conflicts and maintain good relationships with neighbors and municipalities.

“Farmer-to-Farmer Advice for Avoiding Conflicts With Neighbors and Towns” features a wide of range of advice solicited from farmers during recent interviews. Several common themes appeared amongst the farmer’s feedback – that maintaining good communication, giving appropriate consideration to neighbors and municipalities, and being actively involved in the community are key to building good relationships.

Dr. Karyn Malinowski, director of the Equine Science Center at Rutgers University sees the value in this publication. “I applaud the SADC for compiling and publishing this informational guide. Being cognizant of the importance of fostering amiable relationships with neighbors is applicable for all farmers, including those who own and manage horse farms.”

Farmers shared their suggestions anonymously. Examples of specific advice included:

• “We are a close community. We exchange phone numbers and can call each other if there are any issues.” (Equine farmer, Monmouth County)

• “I don’t run machines too late. I’ll turn off the grain dryer by 5 or 6 p.m. to keep from disturbing neighbors." (Grain farmer, Middlesex County)

• “It’s important to have built a relationship before a controversial issue arises.” (Fruit and vegetable farmer, Burlington County “We try to keep our farm clean and presentable on all borders." (Fruit farmer, Gloucester County)

• “If an activity involves a gray area, we’ll call the official, explain what we’re doing and see if there’s anything we need to do to comply with certain regulations. We found that by calling, there’s less that’s required.” (Nursery farmer, Cumberland County)

• “Just be a good neighbor. That’s all. It’s that simple. Respect your neighbors and they’ll respect you.” (Fruit and vegetable farmer, North Jersey)

The SADC coordinated the development of the publication in cooperation with the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, New Jersey Farm Bureau, the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey and the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station Cooperative Extension. The publication was funded by a grant from the Northeast Center for Risk Management Education.

To request a copy of the publication, contact the SADC at (609) 984-2504 or visit the SADC’s website at www.nj.gov/agriculture/sadc/publications/farmeradvicebrochure.html.

About the New Jersey State Agriculture Development Committee
The SADC administers the Farmland Preservation and Right to Farm programs. For more information, including how to provide feedback on the new publication, visit the SADC’s website or contact David Kimmel at (609) 984-2504.