Sometimes, a drive through the countryside exposes people to more than beautiful sights. A mere whiff of farm odors may be enough to make stomachs churn and noses crinkle, especially for people who are not used to them.

Public concern over agricultural odors is nothing to sniff at. Neighbors of large farms are complaining about manure odors, and officials are taking notice. In Europe, some countries have made it illegal for mushroom farms to produce excess odors. In Pennsylvania, new zoning ordinances in some townships prevent large hog facilities from moving into the community. But farmers must maintain their livelihood no matter what laws are passed.