A professional qualified in environmental assessment should review these options before they are used. These guidelines can also offer protection for the grower against unwarranted nuisance complaints. Over the last few years, there has been a steady increase in the number of residential dwellings on or near farmland. These complaints could be unjustified where growers are following generally accepted farming practices such as described in the Code and these guidelines. The exchange of information and communication among producers, government agencies, and the public is important in improving mutual understanding.
Open communication is in the best interests of producers.
Use of the Guidelines People with experience in fruit production can use these guidelines to establish appropriate management practices. Individuals not knowledgeable in tree fruit and grape production should not extract portions of this publication, nor draw inference, without considering all aspects of orchard or vineyard management and the environmental context of the operation. These guidelines are not regulations and are not intended to be adopted into legislation. However, environmental consultants and governments are encouraged to use these guidelines when dealing with environmental issues affecting the tree fruit and grape industries. With urban developments expanding into rural areas, there has been an increase in the number of complaints about agricultural operations.