Some important questions on communication.

While you consider adding or expanding livestock in your operation, you should also keep in mind your responsibility in communicating with others who will have some influence on your project.

A-FAN can help guide you in this effort by encouraging you to ask yourself some questions:

• Are you comfortable talking with your neighbors about your plans?

• What is the level of community support for agriculture and livestock production in your area?

• Are you willing to take the time and initiative to invite community members and neighbors to your operation to show them what you’re doing and how you’re doing it?

• Are you flexible enough to consider different locations for your operation that might be more acceptable to the community than others?

• Are you committed to using the latest technologies to help manage waste and control odor?

• Can you solicit support for your proposed operation from fellow livestock and grain producers, community leaders and other local residents?