DOVER-FOXCROFT – The three types of roadside signs that farmers might use for their operations were explained this week by Robert Sinclair, supervisor of Right-of-Way Control, Maine Department of Transportation.

He told the Maine Highlands Farm Products Promotion Group that the three types permitted are categorical signs, official business directional signs, and on-premises place signs.

The latter can be placed within 1,000 feet of a business on the owner’s land to advertise farm stands, unless the town has more restrictive signage ordinances. Town ordinances supersede Maine DOT regulations. Some towns and cities may not allow certain signs, he said.

Categorical signs or temporary farm signs may be in place only from May 1 to Dec. 31.

Official business directional signs are located on approaches to intersections where customers must turn to come to the business.

Anyone who missed this meeting but would like an information packet should call Donna Lamb at the Piscataquis County Extension Office at 564-3301 or 1-800-287-1491 or e-mail dlamb@umext.maine.edu.

The next meeting of the Maine Highlands Farm Products Promotion Group will include a presentation of the preliminary results of the 2003 consumer survey that was completed with Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education funds by Donna Lamb, Extension educator. Discussion also will include progress on the 2004 farm map and results of the Maine Community Foundation Grant request.

Memberships for farms to be included on the 2004 farm map have been extended to March 20, so farmers who would like to be included should contact Linda Clewley, treasurer, 248 Corinth Road, Garland 04939, call 924-5506 or e-mail shadym@gwi.net.