How would you feel about this?

[Ryan.]

Would you feel ok living immediately next to commercial papaya fields?

Greetings everyone, my wife and I are recent transplants here (currently renting while looking for land). A couple days ago we discovered what we consider to be a beautiful plot of land (five acres) near the intersection of Pahoa-Kapoho Rd and Railroad Ave. While we are very enthusiastic about the property, we have some concern about potential pesticide drift from a small, seven acre papaya field on the property line to the left and another six acres immediately at the rear of the property. We're a young couple with plans for children, etc. and just trying to think through everything. We don't have any knowledge of anything harmful next door and we're not idealists, just wanting to look before we leap.

If you have a moment, we'd like your opinion on whether or not you'd have reservations about this kind of lot. Thank you!

[missydog1]

I think you should talk to the farmer and see what kind of spraying practices they have. It won't be aerial spraying here, but depending on the wind, it might drift. Keep in mind that the farm could change its practices at any time, and even its crop. (Translation, I would have concerns, sure.) The attitude towards spraying here is rather nonchalant, except for among organic farmers. Pesticides and herbicides are used routinely.

[Bob Orts]

What is the zoning for the lands around you? I would suggest you read Chapter 25 of Hawaii County Code and understand exactly what is allowed on the property. What is there today, may not be there tommorrow. Everything listed as "permitted use" can pop up the next day.

[StillHope]

Like pig farm with slaughter facility on ag land.
Pesticide may become the least of your concerns.

[Royall]

You can move if you are that concerned about it. Most of the island is agriculture. You may want to check into Oahu to build. Don't come here and think you'll be able to change things. You'll find your self just banging your head against the wall.

Royall

[Ryan.]

Thanks everyone, for the valuable input. We really do appreciate it. If anyone's interested, here's a link to the chapter of county code Bob mentioned: http://www.hawaii-county.com/countycode/chapter25.pdf

[Bob Orts]

quote:

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Originally posted by StillHope

Like pig farm with slaughter facility on ag land.
Pesticide may become the least of your concerns.

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Piggeries (and some other items) are restricted due to State health regulations and a special permit is requited.

One thing most people are not aware of is that HOA's CC&Rs or deed restrictions can no longer place limitations on agricultural land to limit permitted agricultural use. Anything in place in July 2003 is all right, but they can't add any more restrictions after that date. So, HOA's can't start adding new restrictions even if all the property owners want it. (One of the RE Agents can clarify this if my understanding is wrong)