Montrose, CO— The Montrose Board of County Commissioners officially inked a “right to farm” resolution in Montrose County at this week’s board meeting. While there has always been a “right to farm” in Montrose County, this resolution is intended to demonstrate support for the agriculture producers of the county.
“I could not be more proud of a resolution,” said Commissioner Keith Caddy. “I come from generations of producers and I know it isn’t an easy life—from livestock and crop prices to increases on fertilizer and seed . . . farming and ranching isn’t just a job, it’s a way of life and it’s our way of life here in Montrose County. Farmers and ranchers are some of the most resourceful and hardworking people I know, and I am committed to helping the future of agriculture in Montrose County.”
“Montrose County is growing, but to me, it’s important to always honor and respect our agricultural roots,” said Commissioner Sue Hansen. “Agriculture is a key component to our local and regional economies due to the hard work of the producers in the county. There are challenges ahead—wolves, water, and the upcoming farm bill—and we want our producers to know that Montrose County is here to support them.”
“There are more than 1,100 registered agriculture producers [2017 Ag Census] across this entire county—from Maher to Olathe to the West End and more—farmers and ranchers accounted for nearly $82 million of products from our county,” said Commissioner Roger Rash. “This resolution is not only timely as numbers of producers are decreasing, but it is also an important message of support for our farmers and ranchers as many approach the busy spring season of preparing crops, calving/lambing, burning ditches, and more.”
The resolution encourages residents to be mindful of the smells, sounds, hazards, and activities that come with life in Montrose County. It also notes that Colorado is an “open range” state which means that landowners must fence out livestock if they do not want livestock on their property. Another key issue mentioned in the resolution is that of water and irrigation. New residents are encouraged to visit montrosecountywater.com to learn more about the Code of the West and irrigation principles in the county. More information will be made available at the Montrose County Planning and Development Department in an effort to help educate new residents on the lifestyle of moving to an agricultural community. To view the resolution, please visit here.
