A dairy farmer northwest of Pansy is hoping to build a lagoon that is closer to his neighbours than what the municipality allows.

Earlier this month, Hanover Council heard from Jan Devries of Devries Poultry. The applicant would like to vary the required separation distance between a proposed earthen manure storage lagoon and a residence. He requested a variance from 400 metres down to approximately 200 metres. If approved this would encroach on the required separation distances between lagoons and single residences.

According to Hanover Administration, it appears there are five dwellings within the required setback. Planning Manager Jeremy Neufeld says the configuration of the existing farm site in relation to property boundaries makes it very difficult, if not impossible to locate a lagoon in a manner that would not require reduced setbacks.

A letter of objection was sent to Council from neighbours living to the east. These neighbours say they have no issues with the current operation but object to what is now being proposed. Reasons for the objection include potential odour and the risk of water contamination as their well would be located within 200 metres of the lagoon.

Other neighbours spoke out at the public hearing with similar concerns and questioned whether this would reduce their property value. There was also a concern of future expansion at this site.

The applicant, Jan Devries was present at the public hearing. He clarified that even though their name is Devries Poultry, this is in fact a dairy lagoon. He notes this proposal would be for liquid manure storage, suggesting the agitators would actually take care of potent odours. Councillor Jim Funk concurred, noting this proposal would actually likely result in less smell than what is noticed today.

Following the public hearing, Hanover Council opted to refer the proposal back to the Planning Committee for review and recommendation. Reeve Stan Toews says he is hopeful that Council will make a final decision at its next meeting October 27th.