Navigating the Layers of Laws to Successfully Farm in New Mexico

The Law Office of George “Dave” Giddens, P.C. provides necessary advice for planning for and operating your farm. Our attorneys serve Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, Raton, Farmington, Gallup, Grants, Roswell, Los Lunas, Placitas, Belen and the rest of New Mexico. They advise farmers about the variety of different laws that can affect their operations.

First on the municipal and county levels, farmers in New Mexico must pay attention to planting and harvesting schedules. Land use is regulated at the local level by zoning laws, acreage limits and water restrictions. Local authorities may regulate use of pesticides, herbicides and certain chemicals. The attorneys at George “Dave” Giddens, P.C. have represented farmers throughout New Mexico to ensure they are aware of and in compliance with these regulations.

The State of New Mexico also impacts the manner in which farmers conduct their business. Such laws prohibit fraud in labeling agricultural products; others regulate the effects of farming and ranching on fish and wildlife. Farmers need to be aware of what runs afoul of these laws.

The United States Department of Agriculture enforces rules and regulations that affect practically every aspect of farming. They maintain programs for price supports, subsidies and other payments. The Environmental Protection Agency also governs the use of pesticides and herbicides as do some localities in New Mexico. The Department of Labor also has many rules that apply to treatment of, payment to and hiring of laborers.

And even international treaties and compacts come into play when it comes to import and export restrictions.  These affect how many of certain crops can be sold to a certain market as well as prices. Because there are so many different layers of laws and regulations, it is essential that you have counsel who can advise you on all of these different issues.  Call the Law Office of George “Dave” Giddens at 505-633-6298.  Our attorneys have experience assisting farmers from all over New Mexico.  We look forward to dealing with whatever particular issues your operation faces.