Article Summary
A legal battle is underway between Hickman’s Egg Ranch and residents on the western edge of metro Phoenix. Residents and community groups have filed state and federal lawsuits, claiming that the millions of chickens at Hickman’s industrial-sized farms create dust, feathers, flies, and a foul odor that affects their health. They argue that the release of ammonia and another gas from the farms is making them sick, with symptoms like difficulty breathing and nausea. Hickman’s, a giant egg producer, countersued, asserting that its farms are not a nuisance.
The dispute revolves around Hickman’s operations, which are located in unincorporated Maricopa County, and County Supervisor Clint Hickman, who is a vice president of sales for the company, represents the district. Hundreds of complaints have been lodged about odors and dusty haze, but no odor citations have been issued against Hickman’s. State and federal health agencies have begun investigating whether harmful levels of ammonia and hydrogen sulfide are present in the air near the farms. National consumer advocates argue that large animal operations like Hickman’s are not regulated with the same environmental standards as industrial factories.
Residents, business owners, and land developers have filed lawsuits against Hickman’s, seeking damages and declaring it a nuisance. Hickman’s counter-sued, claiming to be a good neighbor. Environmental activists are also involved, alleging that Hickman’s failed to comply with federal requirements to inform regulators and the public of chemical emissions, particularly ammonia. Federal court records indicate that ammonia emissions from Hickman’s may exceed reportable standards by a significant margin. State and federal agencies are conducting air-quality tests to determine the extent of pollution in the community.
Residents have voiced concerns about the Maricopa County Board of Health considering changes to a regulation about odors that prohibit emissions causing air pollution. Critics argue that the proposed changes would benefit Hickman’s. While state and federal agencies investigate, residents continue to grapple with the impact of the egg farm’s operations, including foul odors and health issues.
