Respect the Rural

During certain seasons, you’ll see increased farm equipment on rural roads. Tractors, combines, and other machinery move much slower than regular traffic and may take up more space on the road. Watch for hand signals from the driver as there are no turn signals. Be patient, pass only when it’s safe, and give them plenty of room. Big equipment using these farm-to-market roads need space to maneuver. Try to keep posts, poles, and mailboxes scaled back from being directly on the farm-to-market road. Remember, they’re working to feed us all!

During certain seasons, you’ll see increased farm equipment on rural roads. Tractors, combines, and other machinery move much slower than regular traffic and may take up more space on the road. Watch for hand signals from the driver as there are no turn signals. Be patient, pass only when it’s safe, and give them plenty of room. Big equipment using these farm-to-market roads need space to maneuver. Try to keep posts, poles, and mailboxes scaled back from being directly on the farm-to-market road. Remember, they’re working to feed us all!

In Mesa County, it’s essential to be aware of semi-trucks and large agricultural vehicles that frequently travel on our farm-to-market rural roads. These vehicles need extra space to make wide turns, especially at intersections and four-way stops. If you’re stopped at an intersection, make sure there’s enough room for the truck to turn safely — don’t block their path. 

Stay visible: If you can’t see the truck driver in their side mirrors, they likely can’t see you. Avoid driving or stopping in their blind spots, and give them plenty of room to maneuver, especially when making turns or changing lanes. Respecting the road and these vehicles helps everyone stay safe and keeps traffic moving smoothly. Be patient and give these large vehicles the time and space they need to operate safely.

Whether on a bike, foot, or car, slow down and enjoy the view. Rural roads are not like highways. Be safe, slow down, and enjoy the ride. Smile, wave, and be polite—just like Mom told you!

Pay attention to posted signs. They are there for a reason. 

Always ask for permission first and follow the landowner’s directions. If you’re unsure, don’t go!

In Mesa County, wild asparagus often grows along ditch banks and roadsides. However, these areas can be privately owned or managed by farmers who may apply herbicides or reserve the harvest for themselves. It’s a  common misconception that county rights-of-way (ROW) always include these ditches; in reality, ROW boundaries  vary, and many ditches are on private property. Trespassing, even unintentionally, can lead to legal issues and  disrupt agricultural operations. Before foraging, always seek permission from landowners and be aware of any chemical treatments that may have been applied. Respecting property rights and agricultural practices ensures safety and maintains good community relations.

Leave all gates as you find them. If they’re open, leave them open. If they’re closed, leave them closed.

Respect our beautiful community. Take all your trash with you.

Whether you’ve lived here for generations or just moved in, get to know your neighbors and share your contact information. Knowing them can make life easier, especially in an emergency.

Understand Colorado’s fence laws and know who is responsible for maintaining fences. Also, know that livestock can roam and graze openly on federal lands.

Mesa County Land Development Code - Fences Section 8.03

Land Development Code - 2020 (Amended 04-23-24)

Do not walk or ride into animal herds. Keep your distance and leash your dogs. Walk bikes around Livestock Guardian dogs. Please do not call Animal Services if you see a working dog without its owner as it is very common that working dogs are doing just that- working. Please don't approach the dog or pick up the dog. Do not feed the Livestock Guardian Dogs under any circumstances. When this happens, they are less likely to stay with the animals they are protecting and can cause unintended consequences for the dog and the animals. They have an important job to do keeping their herd safe!

Mesa County’s canal systems are extremely dangerous and not intended for recreation. Many canals have powerful undercurrents that are difficult to see, making swimming or wading in these waters extremely dangerous. Tragically, children and others have lost their lives by entering these canals. The banks can be slippery, and the currents can pull you under- do not swim, play, or walk near canal edges. Remember that canals are privately owned by irrigation companies and districts that serve a vital role in our community’s irrigation and water management. Most of the canals are on private property which the canal companies have an easement through private property. This easement can only be used by the canal companies and water users to deliver water and maintain the system. Keeping canals clean helps maintain water quality for agricultural use and prevents blockages that could cause flooding or damage. Respect private property by staying off the canal banks and never dumping trash or debris into the canals.

Many miles of concrete or earthen ditches and pipes exist throughout Mesa County. These rights-of-way are legal easements shared and owned by the water share owners/users of that ditch. Water users have a legal right to access and maintain their water delivery systems (typically 7.5 feet on either side, from the center of the ditch), which may include periodic inspections, maintenance, repairs, open burning, or the application of herbicides. Private property owners in which an irrigation ditch runs through their property, shall not infringe upon water user’s rights to maintain their water delivery systems. Proper maintenance of these systems is critical to efficient Colorado River water delivery and consumption.

Water Law - Grand Valley Irrigation Company

Mesa County Policies - 130 Irrigation Policy

In Mesa County, controlled burning of fields, brush, canal banks, and weeds is a common and essential agricultural practice and in many ways a more environmentally friendly option. Farmers, ranchers, and vineyards use controlled burns to prepare fields for planting, manage weeds, and maintain the health of water systems by clearing away debris and overgrowth. The burning of fields decontaminates the ground killing weed seeds and insects reducing the amount of pesticides used. It also reduces the amount of tillage needed to prepare the ground for the next crop, saving in fuel consumption and less soil erosion. These burns are carefully planned, monitored, and permitted to minimize risk and improve land productivity. If you see a controlled burn, please do not call the fire department, as these are standard, safe practices for maintaining farmland and irrigation infrastructure. Burning also keeps canal systems clear, which is critical for irrigation. Always be mindful and respectful of these agricultural activities—they are a part of keeping our food systems running smoothly and
preserving our rural landscape.

Mesa County Guide to Burning

Know and control invasive plants on your property by state law. Don’t let noxious weeds displace native plants.

CSU Extension

For those looking to purchase property in Mesa County’s Upper Grand Valley, it is essential to understand the unique pest and disease challenges that affect orchards and vineyards. Pests and diseases can have a significant impact on fruit crops, potentially harming the health and productivity of orchards and vineyards. The Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District (UGVPCD) plays a vital role in managing these issues, working to control pests and prevent the spread of diseases that could affect both commercial and residential properties. Prospective buyers should be aware of the UGVPCD’s guidelines and services, which may include mandatory pest control measures in certain areas to protect local agriculture. Before purchasing property, it’s recommended to consult with the UGVPCD to understand any responsibilities or preventive measures that may apply, ensuring your property can coexist with the surrounding agricultural community and contribute to the region’s pest management efforts.

Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District

To help prevent the spread of Japanese beetles in Mesa County, residents are encouraged to use grub control treatments on their lawns, as this targets the beetle larvae before they mature and cause damage. Reducing the beetle population at this stage is essential for protecting local plants and agriculture. Together, we can protect our environment from this invasive pest. 

Japanese Beetle Eradication

CSU Extension

Zebra mussels are not native to the Colorado River, lakes, and reservoirs and are considered our most serious aquatic threat. They cause enormous problems for water infrastructure used for municipal, agricultural, and industrial purposes by attaching to, clogging, and impairing water storage, treatment, and distribution systems. 

Zebra Mussels