Residents in New York State Town Angry Over Pig Farm

Residents in Skaneateles are not happy because of one farmer who is setting up a pig farm right outside of town.

Lamar Witmer already has one farm in nearby town of Owasco. Now, he's filed the necessary paperwork with the state Department of Environmental Conservation and he's ready to set up a second farm that will raise 2,400 pigs.

Owasco Supervisor Ed Wagner said that Witmer is following all necessary rules and regulations. He goes on to say the town of Owasco, in Onondaga County, doesn't have jurisdiction to tell a farmer what to produce.

Skaneateles residents say they have a number concerns, such as the impact the hog farm will have on the environment, property values, tourism and local business.

And yes, of course - the awful smell.

Witmer has run farms for over twenty years. His family owns farm land throughout Cayuga County. Witmer said that the new farm won't be producing any more waste than his other farm. He apologized that the people were upset and promised to produce good bacon.

Skaneateles (pronounced like Skinny Atlas) is located near the Finger Lakes and is one of New York state's most popular tourist destinations.