An example of crops in the right-of-way in Washington County. Photo courtesy of the Washington County Engineer’s Office.

The county has the authority to remove obstructions in any highway right-of-way per Iowa code and the Washington County Board of Supervisors are considering which option for enforcement they want to pursue. The code states obstructions include fences, trash, vehicles, machinery and crops. Washington County Engineer Jacob Thorius met with the supervisors during a work session Monday. In September, Thorius showed photos of examples around Washington County to the supervisors.

Supervisor Jack Seward said everyone he spoke to felt it was taking advantage of the system to plant in the right-of-way. The board discussed having a certain number of feet from the center of the road be enforced or allowing nothing that encroaches on the back slopes of the ditches. Supervisor Stan Stoops recommended approaching those who “grossly” impeded on the right-of-way.

Thorius said he needs direction from the board and to know where the line in the sand is drawn. No official action was taken. The supervisors directed Thorius to write a sample letter in regards to enforcement to send to property owners. The letter will provide notice to land owners and make clear that any obstructions in the right-of-way will be removed, including crops. The letter will be reviewed by the supervisors before being sent.