HomeMy WebLinkAboutanswers to public comment 8.7 from applicantGood Hope Farm – Public Comment Responses to Questions
During the August 7, 2025 public hearing before the Yarmouth Conservation Commission (Notice of
Intent # SE-83-2492), several questions were raised during public comment. We have undertaken to
the best of our ability to answer those questions below.
Question: The barn has only 7 stalls, does that mean that 28 of the 35 goats will be outside on
pasture 24/7, and that this additional manure load has not been factored into the plan?
Answer: More than one goat will be in the stalls and there are additional stalls available. There is
more than enough stabling to accommodate all goats and the donkeys, and no animals will be left
outside after sunset.
Question: Has a business plan been provided?
Answer: As stated in the meeting, the Farm Plan, which includes the business plan was already
submitted to the Town.
Question: The proposed manure storage site is higher than nearby wetlands and will that cause
runoff, and in winter will manure generation exceed planned capacity?
Answer: The specific storage site is set outside of 100 foot setbacks. The site will be leveled and
surfaced with a non-permeable base to prevent leaching or runoff. Storage capacity and removal
planning are based on actual operational experience over a ten year period, not estimates. An
enclosed, covered dump trailer will be contracted for to remove any surplus or unexpected volumes.
Question: What will be the oversight of Best Management Practices implementation?
Answer: These are not new standards for us- we have been undertaking these practices and fully
understand what is required. In addition, as with all permits there is oversight, also the barns are
inspected annually by the Board of Health to ensure compliance.
Question: Have urine runoff impacts been addressed?
Answer: Urine deposited in bedding inside the barn will be collected and composted along with
manure in accordance with Best Management Practices. Pastures will be actively managed to
maintain healthy vegetative cover, reducing infiltration and runoff risk.
Question: The applicant has stated that they would leave the property unchanged if the application
is denied—why not do so now?
Answer: The applicant does not fully understand the intent of this question and cannot respond
meaningfully.
Question: The plan is based on an extreme high tide level of 10’3” is the correct level not 10’6”,
which would thereby alter the design.
Answer: The public comment made incorrect assumptions about the height- this was explained in
detail by Mr. Ojala after the meeting - our submission was correct.