You have the opportunity here to save, to save this farm to help it grow and expand, protect your community or you can, you can, sit here and just say goodbye to another farm because I can tell you from my experience from what’s going in the state that is exactly what you’ll be doing to this farm – Shawn Jasper, NH State Commissioner of Agriculture
Planning board meeting on 1/14/2026, features a conceptual discussion regarding a proposed farm-to-table restaurant at the historic Mack’s Apples orchard. Legal counsel and the Shawn Jasper, NH State Commissioner of Agriculture, argue that the project qualifies as agritourism under state statutes, which would grant the farm certain regulatory waivers to remain economically viable. While board members generally support preserving the farm, they express significant concerns regarding public safety, traffic impact, and environmental protection near a local pond. The debate centers on whether the 99-seat establishment constitutes a change of use necessitating a full site plan review or if such requirements impose an unreasonable burden on agricultural operations. Ultimately, the board reaches a consensus that the project is agritourism but insists on a formal review process to ensure compliance with local health and safety standards. Planning Board Chair Jake Butler, was opposed to the consensus of the board.
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