By Roelof Bezuidenhout
City dwellers can often go about their lives without paying much attention to the goings and doings of others living in their street or block of flats, but for farmers being part of a community is essential. Living in isolation is not an option.
For anyone new to farming – whether a foreign property investor, a business executive developing a game ranch, an entrepreneur seeking a country retreat, or an emerging farmer just starting out – one of the first responsibilities is to understand what it means to be a good neighbour and a valued member of the local community.
Every farming district has its own established customs, shaped over generations by the dominant agricultural practices and unique challenges of the region. Newcomers who overlook these traditions may unintentionally disrupt long-standing ways of doing things, causing friction with local farmers.
How to maintain good relations with your neighbours
Preventing unnecessary friction with your neighbours is essential for a smooth farming operation. Here are some key steps to help build strong relationships:
1. Join the local agricultural association. Even if you can only attend a few meetings each year, being a member keeps you informed about industry challenges, new legislation and developments that affect the farming community. It’s also a good way to get to know fellow farmers.
2. Introduce yourself to your neighbours. When you move in, make a courtesy visit to the surrounding farms. You don’t have to become close friends with everyone, but building good relationships where possible is important; you’re likely to need one another’s help at some point.
3. Establish connections with local authorities. Get to know some of the police officers in your area, including the station commander. If you ever face a crime-related issue, it helps if they already know where your farm is. The same applies to clinic and ambulance staff – introducing yourself early on could make a critical difference in an emergency.
4. Build rapport with service providers. Take the time to introduce yourself to municipal workers and Eskom and Telkom personnel you encounter along the roads. You’ll likely need their assistance regularly.
5. Be present and accountable. Avoid treating your farm as a lock-up-and-go property. When you’re away, ensure a responsible person is overseeing things and that your neighbours and local authorities know how to reach you. Being available and approachable fosters trust and cooperation.
6. Coordinate road and boundary maintenance. Discuss the upkeep of shared access roads and boundary fences with your neighbours. Taking turns or sharing responsibilities ensures these essential features remain in good condition and benefits everyone.
7. Manage your staff and visitors responsibly. Ensure that your employees and any visitors to your farm respect property boundaries and do not trespass or interfere with neighbouring farms and their workers.
8. Stay informed about invasive species and diseases. Learn to identify alien plants, invasive species and agricultural diseases, and take proactive steps to manage them. Preventing their spread protects both your farm and the surrounding community.
9. Keep your dogs under control. Ensure your dogs remain on your property and do not stray onto neighbouring farms, where they could cause damage or disrupt livestock.
10. Support the local economy. Whenever possible, buy from local suppliers and use local services. Keeping money within the district helps strengthen the community and benefits everyone.
11. Introduce new ideas with respect. If, after spending time in the area, you believe your farming methods could improve local practices, invite neighbouring farmers for a discussion. Simply disregarding established norms without considering others’ perspectives is a surefire way to create lasting friction.
12. Seek mediation when necessary. If a dispute cannot be resolved amicably, consider involving an impartial arbitrator to find a fair solution and maintain good relations.
Also read:
• Take good care of your windpump
 | Roelof Bezuidenhout is a fourth-generation wool, mohair, mutton and game farmer and freelance journalist. Attended Free State University, majoring in animal husbandry and pasture science. Other interests include agricultural extension and rural development. |
