HATFIELD — Damaged crops, trash and other debris disposed in agricultural fields, and signs designating protected farmland being stolen are among nuisances Hatfield farmers are facing, in some cases possibly caused by people visiting town to enjoy the scenic vistas.

“A lot of visitors are coming in to enjoy this community, but are having somewhat of an effect on their activities,” Agricultural Advisory Commission member John Pease said this week, recounting some of the challenges for farmers during the Select Board meeting.

Pease gleaned the information from the ongoing comprehensive planning process, where he is speaking to farmers for Hatfield 2040, a project that will develop a plan to confront climate change and preserve the community for the future.

Pease said he understands that farmers are trying to counter these problems, such as on Bridge Lane where farmers have put up no-parking signs at edge of the road at the dike, and in other places where they are having difficulties getting to head rows.

Some crops are also harmed when cars are parked on or near them, such as tobacco plants that can be compromised.

Pease also noted landowners are facing difficulties near the trail systems on Horse Mountain. There, cars from people hiking on the land can block those who are logging and removing cordwood from their properties. Other people have been startled while using equipment, such as chainsaws.

Several properties marked with signs put up by the American Farmland Trust have also been affected, with signs missing. “The posts are there, the signs are gone,” he said. This has happened on Depot Road and Old Farms Road

Litter from trash is problem, too, with poop bags from dogs being discarded.

Pease said the town might be able to put up signs to better direct people coming from out of town, and in many cases out of state, to be more considerate.

“Maybe we could get some signage put up where parking could be allowed and say be respectful if visiting the community,” Pease said. “It’s an agricultural community and pick up after your pets and be ever conscious of the farming activities.”

Police Chief Michael Dekoschak said officers are aware of the issues, including where illegal dumping is happening. For instance, he said he has been talking to farmers about putting gates up at Kellogg Hill Road to limit access to the river.

Select Board member Ed Jaworski said he would encourage farmers to install game cameras to capture images of those who violate the rules. Dekoschak said such cameras are legal to put up.

Select Board Chairwoman Diana Szynal said she encourages people to continue visiting Hatfield, but to be respectful of the crops and farm roads, and to not to leave behind trash.

Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com.]]>