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

Chapter 318 of the Iowa Code reads, “A person shall not place, or cause to be placed, an obstruction within any highway right-of-way,” and those obstructions were the focus of a work session held by the Washington County Board of Supervisors Tuesday. The supervisors met with Washington County Engineer Jacob Thorius, who explained obstructions include trash, fences and crops – a problem found locally and statewide. Some farmers in the county are planting crops in the right of the way of roads. Supervisor Jack Seward adding it also can cause drainage issues. In addition, they can cause sight difficulties for drivers and can obscure where utility companies have their equipment placed in right of way areas. Washington County Attorney Shawn Showers explained the county can send letters to landowners who are leaving obstructions and ask they be removed. The county also has the authority to clear the obstructions and bill the landowner, or they landowner can face criminal nuisance charges. No official action on what to do regarding right of way areas was taken and the supervisors may hold another work session before adding it to a regular session agenda.