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Home My WebLink About991580.tiff PATINA OIL& GAS CORPORATION 1625 Broadway, Suite 2000 Denver, Colorado 80202 (303) 389-3600 (303) 389-3680 Max June 8, 1999 VIA FAX (970-304-6498) & U. S. MAIL Weld County Planning Dept. Weld County Department of Planning Services JUN 10 1999 1555 N. 17th Avenue Greeley, CO 80631 RECEIVED Attn: Julie Chester Re: Planning Commission Public Hearing Case Number: AmUSR-587 Hard-Le Holsteins 'Township 6 North, Range 66 West, 6th P.M. Section 10: NW'/ Weld County, Colorado Dear Ms. Chester: With respect to the referenced public hearing for the Hard-Le Holsteins livestock confinement operation, please be advised that Patina Oil & Gas Corporation ("Patina") is the owner of the oil and gas leasehold estate under the referenced lands (the "Lands"). Patina is very concerned about the impact the livestock confinement operation will have on Patina's ability to develop, produce, operate and maintain oil and gas wells on the Lands. Patina has not waived any rights it has to access the oil and gas under the Lands. Patina currently operates the Hardesty 10-5G6 and the Carlson 10-1 oil and gas wells located on the Lands. Any approval of the livestock confinement operation by Weld County should be conditioned upon Patina's continued access to the existing wellheads, flowlines and production facilities for purposes of drilling, deepening, refracing, recompleting, workover, maintenance, production and other operations. Additionally, Patina has the right to drill an oil and gas well in the NE'/NW'/ pursuant to existing Colorado Oil & Gas Conservation Commission well location rules (see attached plat). Patina requests assurance from Weld County and the applicant that the livestock confinement operation will not block access or preclude Patina from drilling, producing, operating and maintaining an oil and gas well in the NE'/NW%4. EXHMIT AC 991580 Until this matter is resolved by agreement with the applicant, Patina is not waiving its rights as a leasehold owner. Any approval of the Hard-Le Holsteins livestock confinement operation should be conditioned upon the preservation of Patina's real property rights that allow it to make a reasonable use of the surface of the Lands, and specifically the NE'/<N W'/, for oil and gas development. Patina requests that these comments be entered into the record. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the undersigned at(303) 389-3600. Sincerely, PATIN OIL & GAS CORPORATION L-1( David W. iple Vice President DWS/kkp Enclosure c: Doug Campbell . : ............. . f HARDESIY CARL>OIN 10G6 *-10 1 • I This map has been GIe71rNy prepared and la a Ii not w npnwnlelbn of the erne iianybraided. However,e a not Ilaanded to be presented �� u 0 sanity. The Inforreatlon contained Amnon Is net warranted and Patina shell net In any went be labia for any Ineallndn. ()R &I:1S('ORPUR.1I IO\ DRILLING WINDOWS HARD-LE HOLSTEINS DRAINAGE PLAN AREA • I I'ATINA OIL&GAS CORPC1RATIOr 3' NW/4 OF SECTION 10 " TOWNSHIP 6 NORTH-RANCIC 66 WEST WELD COUNTY,COLORADO i. MP NM ARM NY I MNI rra 4II4. MAU IiIftT ]n4 111411 Silviano Munoz (970) 454-1101 33531 CR 35 Eaton, CO 80615 Weld County Planning Dept. Weld County Board of Commissioners C/O Julie Chester JUN 10 1999 Dept. of Planning Services Weld County Admin. Offices RECEIVED 1555 N. 17th Ave. Greeley, CO 80631 Re: Lester & Sherrill Hardesty USR I am writing in support of the application submitted by the Hardesty's to expand their allowed animal units. I have dealt with Les in many capacities over the past years. I have sold hay and silage to Les, I have custom farmed and spread manure for him. I have purchased animals from him. I have known him to be fair and have received prompt payment. Les purchases most forages for his dairy locally, and attempts to work with the neighbors on feed purchases to help the local economy and maintain good relationships with other farmers in the area. Sincerely, EXHIBIT May 24, 1999 Julie Chester RECEIVED Weld County Department of Planning Services 1555N. 17th Ave. Greeley,CO 80631 Dear Julie, We are writing about the proposed expansion of Har-Le Holsteins, case number AMUSR-587. We are neighbors based one mile east of the dairy and the tenant farmers immediately north of the dairy. We have some comments on the management of the dairy and do not think it is appropriate for them to expand beyond their present size. The lagoon,that drains the dairy barn and corrals, as they are at present, is too small and is kept at too high of level as it is. During the recent rain storms this spring, the lagoon overflowed out of their property across the road and onto the property that we are renting, creating a lake that did not drain for a week. Likewise, the runoff from the western part of the farm exceeded the capabilities of that drainage system resulting in an overflow across the road onto the farm we are leasing. A.second lake of at least seven acres in size was created there. The landlord talked to the owner immediately following the storm and he promised to take care of the damages. We have yet to hear from him since then. We cannot support expansion of the proposed dairy at this time. Sincerely, Sonny Schneider Darick Schneider 34534 WCR 33 Greeley,CO 80631 EXHIBIT I _ Mcke'& B renuictiNaso-vv 14991 CR 72 Greeley, CO 80631 (970) 454-3042 Weld County Board of Commissioners ©a /`'7 J 3 U C/O Julie Chester Dept . of Planning Services Weld County Admin. Offices 1555 N. 17th Ave . Greeley, CO 80631 Re: Lester & Sherrill Hardesty USR We are writing in support of the application submitted by the Hardesty' s to expand their allowed animal units . The Hardesty' s have one of the cleanest and attractive facilities that I have seen. We have lived near the Hardesty' s for nearly ten years, since they moved into the area . Les & Sherrill have been good neighbors, and do an excellent job of taking care of their animals and their facility. We have done pig roasts for Les & Sherrill when they want to get together with family, friends and neighbors . If you have any further questions, please don' t hesitate to contact us . Sincerely, EXHIBIT N ?g' OWESTERN DAIRYFARMERS' PROMOTION ASSN. 12000 North Washington •Suite 200•Thomson,Colorado 80241 (303)451-7721 •FAX(303)451-0411 Your assurance of a REAL Dairy Food June 2, 1999 Department of Planning Services C/o Julie Chester Weld County Administrative Offices 1555 N. 17th Avenue Greeley CO 80631 Dear Ms. Chester: I have known Sherill and Les Hardesty for over six years and have visited their farm on various occasions. My visits have always been a pleasant experience. The Hardesty farm is a well-run operation that uses the latest techniques of farm management regarding animal care, feeding and breeding. The Hardesty operation uses technology with a concern for their neighbors and the environment. The Hardestys are proficient business people that dedicate all their time and experience to their operation that makes it a well-run business and a model dairy farm for the state of Colorado. The Hardesty farm will be one of the one hundred or so dairy farms remaining in the state tha ill repsQsent the dairy industry well into the 215t century. Sincer , Thomas C. Jenkin on General Manager SIT 1 —�1 Colon University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Department of Clinical Sciences Fort Collins.Colorado 80523-1620 i 970)491-1274 FAX: 970)491-1275 June 1, 1999 Weld County Board of Commissioners c\o Julie Chester Dept. of Planning Services Weld County Admin. Offices 1555 N. 17th Ave. Greeley CO 80631 To Whom It May Concern: Sherrill and Les Hardesty have applied for a Use by Special Review permit from Weld County to expand their dairy operation. The Hardestys are extremely well suited to expand their operation in a responsible manner and I support their application wholeheartedly. It's easy to know about the Hardesty operation because they are a visible and positive force in the dairy community. As a director of their milk cooperative, Les works very hard to represent his and other dairy farmers' interests in Coop matters. He is a very popular and highly respected member of the dairy community and is a role model for younger farmers. I have also gotten to know the Hardestys quite well because of their willingness to participate in research projects and educational programs with us at the Integrated Livestock Management program at Colorado State University. They believe in supporting our research and outreach programs not just because of any potential benefit to their own operation, but also because of benefits to accrue to the Colorado dairy industry as a whole. We need more dairy farmers with the civic-mindedness of Les and Sherrill! There should be no question about the ability of the Hardestys to run a clean, highly productive and profitable operation of any size. They are above all careful business people, but they are equally careful when it comes to the welfare of their livestock, the management of the production aspects of the cows, and the appearance of their operation. They run a tight ship from a management standpoint, and it shows when visiting the farm. Their level of production, when measured by the amount of milk produced per cow, is not only above average in Colorado and in the US, but ranks within the top 10% of all farms nationwide. As an indication of their careful management, their costs of production are routinely among the lowest of a peer group of dairy farmers in the state. EXHIBIT In summary, Les and Sherrill Hardesty can be relied upon to remain careful stewards of the cattle and environment they will manage regardless of the eventual size of their dairy. Weld County needs to encourage the success of dairy farmers like Les and Sherrill as a model for responsible dairying in an area of increasing urbanization. Please feel free to contact me if further information is needed. Sincerely, 7 R. Page Dinsmore, DVM Associate Professor Ellis s Capp Equipment Co. CARLTON C. BARNETT, PRESIDENT R.0 BOX 99 301 EAST 8th STREET GREELEY, COLORADO 8031 (970) 352-9141 May 29, 1999 RECEIVED Weld County Board of Commissioners c/o Julie Chester Dept. of Planning Services 1555 N. 17th Ave. Greeley, CO 80631 I have known Les Hardesty for many years and am familiar with his dairy operation. I feel that their dairy is one of the best managed dairies in Weld County. I have been in the farm equipment and trucking business for twenty-five years and have been around operations similar to his. Les has a very nice operation and does a good job with cleanliness and efficiency. I feel that the Hardesty dairy is a real asset to our community. They use all kinds of products and machinery in their operation and an enlargement would be a very nice enhancement to our whole community. I would like very much to see them get the approval. they are requesting for the enlargement of their dairy. Sincerely,4172,Carl Barn •tt President CB/pb Man r _ a May 17, 1999 00%),. A� Weld County Board of Commissioners r/i2i� C/O Julie Chester e 6)Oe Dept. of Planning Services e• .44 Weld County Administration Offices j e 1555 N. 17`" Ave. Greeley, CO 80631 To Whom It May Concern: Les and Sherrill Hardesty have asked me write of a letter of support for their proposed dairy expansion. I am a veterinarian that has done the nutritional work for the Hardesty's dairy herd for the past 20 years. I have know the Hardestys for the past 20 years and have watched them as they grown in herd size over the years. They have managed one of ten highest producing dairy herds in the state. The are committed to being one of the premiere dairies in the state of Colorado. As they have grown in size, they have progressed through three different sites to the current location. At each site, they have maintained a clean, well-kept facility, to which they have always made improvements. The current site was a feedlot before the Hardestys' ownership. The Hardestys have gradually improved the current facility over their tenure on the site. The most recent improvements have been the building of new free stall barns to improve cow comfort, facilitate waste management, improve cow cleanliness, and provide protection for the cows during inclement weather. I strongly support the Hardesty USR permit. I think that they have demonstrated an exceptional level animal husbandry and environmental stewardship. With the gradual urbanization of the front range, I think it extremely important that people with a strong commitment to environmentally friendly animal agriculture be allowed to expanded, allowing for harmony between agriculture and neighbors. Les Hardesty has been an elected member of the board of directors for Western Dairyman's Coop, Inc., and more recently Dairy Farmers of America for the last 8 or 9 years. I think he is well respected by other dairy producers in the region. If you have any questions or concerns about the management skills or soundness of issuing a permit to the Hardestys, please free to contact me at 303-470-7216. EXHIBIT —2— May 17,1999 Sincerely, Jerry D. Olson, DVM, MS Technical Service Consultant Pharmacia and Upjohn 10278 S. Woodrose Ct. Highlands Ranch, CO 80126 IaII Norwest Bank Greeley, N.A. MIN 1025 9th Avenue NORN7lT BANKS II111 P.O. Box 1058 IIVII Greeley, Colorado 80632-7058 303/356-1000 Weld County Administration Offices Department of Planning Services 1555 N 17th Ave. Greeley, CO 80631 Attn: Julie Chester Dear Julie: I am writing to you regarding Hard Le Holsteins (Lester and Sherrill Hardesty) and their request to expand their dairy operation. In my opinion, the Hardestys are among the very best dairymen you will find. Their management abilities are unsurpassed in many ways. They are a top producer, excellent financial managers, and have one of the cleanest operations in the State. Many dairies expand without much thought or planning, and the result can be problematic. The Hardestys are very thoughtful and plan carefully whenever they do an expansion, and as a result, have put together a "model" dairy operation. I have lived in Weld County my entire life, and understand the challenges your office faces. However, I can not think of one dairy operation that would set a better example regarding their approach to cautious and systematic expansion. Finally, as a banker, I see many operations expanding simply to meet cash flow demands, which increases leverage and reduces profit margins. Expansion for this reason is dangerous especially when adverse conditions occur. The Hardestys are not in this category and are excellent financial mangers. I obviously support the Hardestys request and if I can answer any questions regarding this operation please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you. Sincerely, Weld County Planning Dept. ,11rZ !.-_L- 1 y 11 1999 L nnie Ochsner Vice President RECEIVED BEEF COUNCL rEEF Weld County planning Dept. May 12, 1999 1999 Weld County Board of Commissioners RECEIVED c/o Julie Chester G Dept. of Planning Services 1555 County Admin. Offices Greeley, CO 80631 Dear Weld County Commissioners: I am personally writing this letter in support of the Hardesty proposed dairy expansion. Les and his family are leaders that are recognized through out the Dairy Industry. Les is a board member of the Colorado beef Council and has added great insight into the marketing and promotion of the beef industry. As I have viewed his operation, and observed the cleanliness and compatibility of the dairy with it's neighbors, it is easy to see why Les and his family are recognized and held in such high regards by the members of the dairy industry. In closing, with the economic benefits to the community and an operation run by one of its leaders, I would strongly support the Hardesty proposed dairy expansion. Sinc ely, Fred Lombardi Executive Director 1 waist 789 sherman street• suite 105 • denver, colorado 8020 (303) 830-7892 •fox (303) 830-7896 127 22nd Street A Greeley, CO 80631 P.O. Box 1708 C , Farm Credit Services Greeley, CO 80632 �`� Mountain Plains, ELBA/PCA (970) 352-1561 I EEDTNE ® r www.ifeedtheworld.com WORLD' Weld County Planning Dept May 3, 1999 5 1r' '> Department of Planning Services C/O Julie Chester Weld County Administrative Offices RECEIVED 1555 N. 17th Ave. Greeley, CO 80631 Re: Les& Sherrill Hardesty The Hardesty's are applying for a USR to allow the expansion of their dairy operation. We have known them and done business with them for many years. Based on our knowledge of them,we would highly recommend them and recommend that their application be approved. Les& Sherrill have proven themselves to be excellent managers in a very competitive business. The dairy business is moving toward fewer, larger operations,which are designed for maximum efficiency. This permit will allow them to expand and maintain their operation at an efficient and competitive level.Their operation reflects their good management and Hardesty's have the financial and operational management ability to manage a larger facility. They have continued to improve and expand their dairy operation since purchasing the property in the late eighties. Prior to that,this property had been operated as a cattle feedlot and hog confinement facility. This application is for fewer livestock than had been permitted for this facility in 1984. Plus the use of this property as a large dairy facility conforms to the agricultural base in that area. When visiting the property,their pride of ownership is very evident.All of the improvements are well maintained,corrals are in good condition and the dairy cattle are maintained in very good condition. This expansion will be well planned and will fit in well with the existing facility and the area. Les& Sherrill are well respected and recognized leaders in the Colorado dairy industry.You will find them involved in several organizations where they both currently hold or have held leadership positions. A dairy operation of this size provides a significant economic impact to the community. With the current low commodity prices, local feed producers need additional markets to be available in this area, which a large dairy would provide.As they grow they would also need additional labor. The cash flow generated by this facility would be a positive impact on many other businesses in this area. Once again,we would highly recommend the approval of their application. Please call if you have any additional questions. Thomas E. Rainbolt Sr. Credit Officer EXI MBIT I 37 The Farm Credit System Weld County Planning Dept• ;LAY igg9 in lir CITIT Irotiv4.c RECEIVED 3309 Empire Street • Evans, Colorado 80620 • Phone (970) 330-1870 • FAX (970) 330-1872 May 12, 1999 Weld County Board of Commissioners %Julie Chester, Department of Planning Services Wild County Administrative Offices 1555 North 17th Avenue Greeley, CO 80631 RE: Hard-Le Holsteins Special Use Permit To Whom It May Concern: This letter is in support of a decision in favor of granting a Special Use Permit to Hard-Le Holsteins . As individuals and a company, we have a long-term relationship with Hard-Le Holsteins and its owners, Les and Sherill Hardesty. Les and Sherrill are among the most respected members of the local dairy community. They are very involved with dairy associations including leadership positions within those associations . Les serves in an elected position on the hoard of Directors of the milk cooperative, Dairy Farmers of America . Their involvement in these associations is reflective of their dairy management in that it is one of the most progressive dairies in the area . This involvement helps them keep attuned to good business practices and environmental concerns . A tour of the dairy would provide evidence of a well-managed operation. The livestock, equipment and facilities are well maintained. Through their activities off the dairy, it Ls obvious to the observer that practices on the dairy are a composite of those used by successful dairies . Dairies are one of the most sought after industries in agriculture . The reason is their economic impact on an area. From direct employment to the collateral jobs created for their suppliers, dairies create a desirable economic base . EXHIBIT N 3&%1 Page 2 of 2, Weld County Board of Commissioners, 5-12-99 Having operations of the caliber of Les and Sheril Hardesty is a plus to any community. They operate using good business techniques while balancing social and environmental values . We would recommend approval their request for a Special Use Permit . Sincerely, Jo n Adams sident Weld County Board Of Commissioners ci 3 /► ' 3 D 3 C/O Julie Chester ,` G1 Dept. of Planning Services Weld County Admin. Offices 6661 v ;`i 1555 N. 17th Ave. Greeley, Co 80631 'Idea 8Uluueld XIunoa plats May 21, 1999 To Whom It May Concern: I am writing in support of Les & Sherrill Hardesty expansion of their dairy operation. The Hardesty's work very hard to keep their facility well maintained and clean at all times. They have a reputation in the area for being exceptional managers and good neighbors. I feel that they would not take advantage of this expansion, and would maintain their farm in exactly the same manner as in the past. Sincer , Podtburg and Sons Dairy a3AI3D321 May 20, 1999 6661 b A'vW Julie Chester 'Idea 2uiuunid Aunoo pleM Weld County Department of Planning Services 1555 N. 17th Ave. Greeley. ('() 80631 Dear Julie, I am writing about the proposed expansion of Hard-1.e Holsteins. case number . 11.-SR- 587. While I haven't complained about the operation in the past. it does not mean that I haven't anything to complain about. Flies, dust, air and water pollution have all CC'mc• onto my property in the past and they still do. It is beyond reality to put that many_ cows on such a small area. The absorption of rainwater on the packed soil will almost be nil. This includes about two-thirds of the grassland on the northwest corner, irrigated from their lagoon year round, which drains toward my property_ During a recent rainstorm, an 18-inch culvert could only carry about half the water. The rest went over the road and onto my property. 'l'he same thing happened on their northeast coiner,Just above the dairy. Water crossed the road onto my property. In both instances, lakes that covered at least seven acres each were created. I agree it was a lot of rain, but this happens every hard rain we get (ilease see the accompanying photographs). With regard to the dust problem, tall of the year is usually hot and dry. The silage and manure trucks hauling to and from the dairy go past our residence, which is only a few feet from road 72. The wind invariably blows in a northern direction right onto us from the gravel road. As far as air pollution goes, the smell from the lagoon is quite overwhelming at higher temperatures. These higher temperatures also bring flies from the operation's lagoon. corrals and stored manure piles. The berm proposed for the northeast corner should be backed up with a trench on his side of the road, all the way to the discharge point. In closing. I feel my property will he greatly devalued and I am not in a position to move my residence away from the dairy as the owner has done. Sincerely Edward Schnorr Neighbor to the north 15.695 WCR 72 Greeley. C(..) 80631 r a 3 EMI T 5 9 F J h . i{ � a I C -r ay GU 724-3I h K -7 tint "` 2:4:3 3 I 71-Loectjci it okitfa-t � G i k 3l y to ''M 7 ' icro,,QAA-95-6- el- L/ le II el 43,-etrar I- A . : A '11,040,,,,,rirri 6 > t 6agol AI tilasson- _. 41 • el Z w A r Fr (T Q ,, in I ` �� Rocking D, Inc. Rick Dumm DVM 1160 Hemlock Drive a 3 / `I 3 ^3 Windsor,CO 80550 �,/ 11 970-686-6389 6661 t 1 ' May 19, 1999 munoo phM 'Idea 8uluueld Weld County Board of Commissioners C/O Julie Chester Dept of Planning Services 1555 North 17th Ave. Greeley, CO 80631 Re: Hard-Le Holsteins(Lester and Sherrill Hardesty) The intent of this letter is to lend my support for the proposed expansion of Hard-Le Holsteins Dairy. As the veterinarian for Lester and Sherrill Hardesty, I have seen first-hand the exceptional level of management they implement on their operation. The scale of biosecurity,animal welfare,and quality food production that they maintain could easily serve as benchmark examples for others in dairy agribusiness. I believe that enabling this type of operation to have the ability to make future expansions would not only benefit the dairy industry of Colorado,but also the endless list of other agricultural businesses associated with the running of a dairy. Responsible dairymen like Lester and Sherrill broaden the diversity of our communities,provide increased employment opportunities, and stock our stores with wholesome, quality dairy products that the surrounding community can be proud of. Personal experience with many of the dairymen in this part of the country makes me feel more than comfortable backing the proposed growth and expansion allowances. Please call my office for any further comments,facts,or opinions that I might lend pertaining to this issue. Sincerely, Richard H Dumm,D.V.M. 11It 41 11111 4r, , kx r. 4-Y May 21, 1999 Weld County Planning Dept. .a IN 01 1999 Weld County Board of Commissioners c/o Julie Chester RECEIVED Department of Planning Services Weld County Admin. Offices 1555 N. 17th Ave. Greeley, CO RE: Hardesty USR Dear Ms. Chester: Sherrill and Les Hardesty, have requested that I furnish you with a letter of support for the current"Use by Special Review" application. It is my pleasure to provide my support for these outstanding dairy producers, in their effort. I believe it is important first to consider the tremendous contribution dairy production makes to the consuming public's nutrition and well being. Unfortunately, as our society has moved away from an agrarian culture, along with a very rapid change in the Colorado demographics, animal agriculture r- increasingly finds itself in conflict with their new neighbors over environmental issues. I would argue,that it is an important educational benefit for the public to have the opportunity to experience and observe how their food is produced. Especially, from a dairy that is environmentally consciences and totally quality oriented. The Hardesty dairy has an excellent history of quality production and best management practices. Les is a major leader in the dairy industry not only in Colorado but nationally where he has continually strived to keep dairy production aligned and sensitive to environmental concerns. Certainly,the Hardesty dairy is a model of thier philosophy. I would propose that it is an opportunity for Weld County Commissioners to promote the interface between the public and dairy production,as well as,providing the Hardestys the opportunity to remain an economically viable operation by offering them the ability to expand with increasing dairy production demands. I believe approval of the Hardesty USR can be a"win win" situation for all parties. Thank you for the opportunity to express my support for these outstanding Weld County citizens and their dairy operation. Respect , Dr. ayne E. Cunningham x u 'I ,-y, �r, �, �rt a R\??\s/ anch-W y Feed Mills, inc1. . '' 4111119 Tailor-Made for Western Feeding Weld County Planning Dept. June 1, 1999 JUN 07 1999' To: Weld County Board of Commissioners RECEIVED Re: Hard-Le Holsteins Expansion -4»„41dA' 'iu I have known and worked with Les and Sherril Hardesty for the past 15 years. I have watched them grow from a small herd of excellent cows(approximately;70 head)to where they are today. They are very progressive thinkers in their approach to the dairy industry. In fact, they were one of the first dairies in the state to utilize ultra sound as a part of their,herd health and reproductive program. Everything that they do is centered around their fellow man and the animals that they love so dearly. Much expansion occurs in the midst of a"macho" attitude. This expansion is JT occurring due to their love of their animals and their desire to properly promote the dairy industry as a viable and necessary part of Northern lorado agribusiness. A tour of their existing dairy will show you the care and environmentally friendly manner that a dairy today needs to be. This young couple is still the epitome of the family farm and it would be a shame to see such talent pushed aside. I wholeheartedly support the expansion of a dairy with the talent of Les and Sherril Hardesty. Sincerely, ofre_ja Ernie Unrein Dairy Nutritionist (303)857-4510 evenings (970)222-5285 days 5A if P.O. Box 2026 • Fort Collins, Colorado 80522 • Phone (970) 482-1662 Weld County Plannln8 Dept University 1, June, 1999 JUN 07 1999 R E C E I V E Dollege of Veterinary Medicine Weld County Board of Commissioners G �I and Biomedical Sciences coE Julie Chester Department of Clinical Sciences Fort Collins.Colorado S0523-1620 Dept. of Planning Services (970)491-1274 Weld County Admin. Offices FAX: (970)491-1275 1555 N. 17th Ave. Greeley CO 80631 RE: Hardesty USR, or Hard-Le proposed dairy expansion To whom it may concern: I am writing to support the application of Les and Sherrill Hardesty for a Use by Special Review permit from 'Weld County. I would like to make it clear that my comments in this letter reflect my own opinions, and are not meant to represent Colorado State University, although my experience with the Hardesty's mostly stems from my professional role at the university. I have known the Hardesty's and their dairy operation for more than 10 years, since assuming my responsibilities at CSU in 1987. Most of my contact with the Hardesty's comes from my professional role as a veterinary faculty member in the Food Animal Section of the Department of Clinical Sciences. We have worked with the Hardesty dairy on many occasions, including professional consults regarding animal health issues, and as r ^ they cooperated with us to make their dairy available for research and teaching purposes. Over the last several years I have worked very closely with Les, as he fills a strong leadership role in the Colorado dairy industry, and in that capacity has served on committees that deal with animal health issues. The Hardesty's are excellent dairy farmers by any measure. They possess and use exceptional management abilities to operate an outstanding dairy. Their facilities and their animals are high quality. They maintain animal health and animal welfare far above average. It is notable that they have maintained and even enhanced their high standards of animal husbandry and environmental stewardship as they have continued to expand their operation throughout the time I have known them. Les Hardesty demonstrates outstanding leadership within the dairy industry. This manifests both in the local management of his operation, and in his involvement with organizations and the larger community. Presently he is chairman of the Western Dairyfarmer's Promotion Association, and on the board of directors for Dairy Farmers of America, one of the largest producer cooperatives in the country. Recently a committee was formed to address a major disease problem in our state's livestock. In addition to all his other responsibilities Les volunteered to chair this Colorado Johne's Disease Advisory Committee because it is an important issue for our dairy industry, and despite the fact that the disease and its control are troublesome. I believe Les is one of our state's most committed and effective dairy leaders. He is someone who carefully looks at all the available information and acts in the most responsible and positive way. This permit, if granted, will allow the Hardesty's to expand their dairy over a period of time as conditions warrant. As development continues,this type of permit helps to ensure a future for dairies along the front range. I assume I do not need to convince you of the important role our dairies play in our local and state economy and well-being. I am t iiifs , , absolutely confident that the Hardesty's are among the best of our dairy farmers and that their future expansions will be enacted with the same high standards of animal husbandry, environmental concern, and neighborhood compatibility that they have maintained through the present. Sincerely yo Franklyn Garry, VM, MS Professor, Department of Cli cal Sciences r'` June 15, 1999 Ms. Julie Chester Weld County Department of Planning Services 1555 N. 17'" Ave Greeley. CO 80631 Dear Ms Chester. This is a follow-up on the flooding from the recent rain mentioned in my previous letter. The water from the lakes that were formed from the recent storm had to drain through a drainage tile of eight inches. As a result, it puts a lot of pressure on the drain tile and causes cave-ins, as the enclosed photos show, on property downstream from the lakes where the drain tile runs. Now, the neighbors downstream on the tile are threatening to plug the drain tile with concrete. This will force me and the owners of other properties draining through the tile (including the land on which the Hard-Le dairy sets) to fmd a new means of draining waste water to the drainage ditch which is approximately `tea mile to the west. This problem needs to be addressed as part of the proposal of the Hard-Le dairy expansion. Sincerely Ed Schnorr 15695 Weld County Road Greeley. CO" 80631 n y� � •;i _ E $ : :T" its t// -/LC (a4-44-.... five efL� ��ZO��X B/ igil a �� iiiil RALE C74-17044) N - Au Afrrn" -c- 4.1-114-' .., i t yy 49,4:-.. 4:-.. 400 I, ..__ S a 08-22-1901 04:54AM FROM TO 19703046498 P.02 DOUGLAS D. SCHNORR June 14, 1999 Department of Planning Services 1555 N. 17m Ave. Greeley Colorado 80631 Dear Sir or Madam I object to the expansion of the existing dairy at the NW4 of Section 10,T6N,R66W of the 6m P.M.,Weld County,Colorado,under the in Hard-Le Holsteins,c/o Lester Hardesty.. I am the son of Edward Schnorr and one of the heirs of Mable Suhnorr's estate, 15695 Weld County Rd. 72,Greeley,Colorado. For the past few years,this milking operation has existed at the expense of others. Currendy,the milking operation utilizes a seeding pond that is to be pumped on a regular basis to the farmland as fertilizer. At best,it overflows and there has been little or no maintenance or repair. It is a constant source of insect that did not affect the area before the dairy was established. It also s a ep,rra of aroma that if my father Edward was to try to sell cm the open market,only a few individuals would be interested be cause of the nuisance odors that originate from the dairy because of the lack of maintenance. Item No 1. The questionnaire states drat'This facility is not located on prime farmland due to soil types and slopes.' Response: This farm was successfully farmed by numerous farmers in the past with crop production equaling the surrounding area The expansion of this facility will severely affect the resell value of the property adjacent Currently,when it rains there is not enough control measures to handle the existing run-off from the dairy operation. If there is an expansion, this will only add to the existing problems. Item no 2. The questionnaire states: "Public health safety and welfare are protected through adherence to applicable county,state and federal regulations slid requirements. Response: Through"good neighbor policy"my father is reluctant to call the health officials to investigate the current insect problem created by the dairy with the current cattle head count. Increasing the size of this facility will only increase the problems. There will he an increase of participation from the local area residents because the current ineffeuive measures being provided by the dairy now Item No 3. The questionnaire sates: "Livestock production facilities of one form or another have existed on this property since approximately 1905,when the site was homesteaded". Response: Livestock production facilities have existed on these facilities in one form or another in the past. However, the type and size of facility has not devalued properties adjacent as the existing dairy is now To increase will only further aggravate and devaluate adjacent property values. 13195 PEREGRINE WAY • COLORADO SPRINGS, CO • 8090 PHONE: 719-495-2020 • PAX. 719.495-8588 08-22-1901 04:54AM FROM TO 19703046498 P.03 2— June 14,1599 Item No 4. The questionnaire states: Approximately 16 employees,the owners and owners, A'"` family,various sales representatives,supply delivery people use this site. Response: The increase of the facility will further aggravate current use of the already overused din road. The use of supply delivery people is deceiving bon se semi trucks will be using the dirt mad multiple times on a daily basis. This road is not built or maintained to handle major semi use. What studies have been completed by the county and state for the maintenance of this marl? Item No 5. Most structures are currently in place. Response: Currently the existing corals are primarily on the north parts of the fsrrn in an tea that cannot handle the existing run off Increasing the size of the feedlots will only aggravate and devalue neighboring property values. I do not see any studies that have been made available that have been made by sate,local, and federal that are applicable the wetland and cat tail area directly across the road to the north on Ed Schnorr's property. When there is any type of Cain this property and the waste from the milking and feeding operations wash into this area because of no protection provided by the dairy. A serious study by local and federal authorities will need to be addressed to see if any damage has been done the area and what if any are the potentials of more damage by further expanding the size of the dairy operation. Item No 6. The questionnaire states: "Manure storage will continue to be located on the East Side of the facility where runoff can be controlled and nuisance conditions minimized." Response: Runoff is currently not being controlled and expansion will further aggravate the condition. Nuisance insects are in fact not controlled with the existing dairy. Further expansion will aggravate the dust created by the delivery trucks on a dirt mad of which no measures by the dairy can control nor has the dairy addressed. The dairies further refusal to pump the sump on the north aggravates the nuisance odors for miles around. I propose that the current expansion of the Hard-Le Holsteins c/o Lester Hardesty dairy be rlrrl;o.n.l until the following 1. A study of the potential damages to the wetland/cattail area to the north of the proposed site be evaluated by state,county and federal authotities. 2. A dear and precise plant is formulated to control runoff with engineered drawings. 3. A dear and precise plan is formulated for the control of nuisance insects. 4. Acker and precise plan is formulated for the control of nuisance odors Thank you for your attention in this matter Sincerely, u ore re" TOTAL P.03 JUNE 9, 1999 WELD COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING SERVICES 1555 N. 17TH AVENUE GREELEY, COLORADO 60631 DEAR PLANNING SERVICES MEMBERS: THE FOLLOWING IS WRITTEN TO EXPRESS MY OPPOSITION TO THE PROPOSED PLAN FOR A 1650 HEAD DAIRY HERD (HARD-LE HOLSTEINS) ON THE NW 1/4 OF SECTION 10 T6 N R 66 W OF THE 6TH P.M. (CASE # AM USR-557). A DAIRY HERD OF THIS MAGNITUDE WILL CREATE A TREMENDOUS ODOR PROBLEM FOR THE SURROUNDING RESIDENTS PLUS THE RELATED PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH A HERD OF THIS SIZE. THERE ARE OVER 20 HOMES WITHIN AN APPROXIMATE ONE MILE RADIUS OF THE PROPOSED SITE. EVEN WITH THE MOST MODERN WASTE AND RUN OFF SYSTEMS WERE TO BE UTILIZED, THE ODOR AND GROUND WATER CONTAMINATION PROBLEMS WOULD STILL EXIST. THIS PROPOSAL, IF APPROVED, WOULD LOWER PROPERTY VALUES AND CREATE OTHER PROBLEMS FOR ME AND THE OTHER RESIDENTS IN THE AREA. FOR THESE REASONS, I OPPOSE THE PLAN AS PRESENTED AND RESPECTFULLY REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING SERVICES DENY THE APPLICATION. SINCERELY, Weld County Planning Dept. JUN 15 19QQ B. HAROLD ANDERSON REC EI Y. D OWNER SW 1/4/4 OF SECTION 10 Hello