As you begin to think about seed selection for the next growing season, it’s essential to consider not only an optimal variety for your area but also legal protections limiting your use of saved seeds.

This year has seen several developments in legal issues impacting not only hay and forage operations but all agricultural operations, from the legalization of hemp to continued battles over “Waters of the U.S.” Let’s look at the top five developments in agricultural law in 2019.

As we move into winter, many of us might be reflecting on how the farm business did over the past season.

This time of year, you potentially have balers, swathers and other equipment utilized in your operation. Many states might be doing campaigns to remind the general public to take it easy around big farm equipment.

As we move toward that time of the year when many of you will be swathing and baling hay, it’s important to remember potential liability can exist if that swather or baler causes a fire that damages your neighbor’s or landlord’s property.

As we enter winter and begin to think about spring, it may be the time of year when many of you check fence conditions to keep livestock in or out of neighboring fields.

As many of you begin to think about seed selection for the next growing season, it’s important to consider not only an optimal variety for your area but also the types of legal protections limiting your use of saved seeds.

Making sure all your bases are covered in case of a discriminatory claim will protect your farm and prevent a lawsuit down the road.