French Farmers Go Viral for Manure Protest Against Squatters

A stinky showdown in eastern France has captured Europe’s attention, and gone viral. Here’s what happened:

  • Where: Hautes-Vosges, France
  • What: Farmers drenched an illegal camp of squatters with liquid manure
  • Why: Squatters, reportedly from a traveling community, refused to vacate private farmland. Farmers claimed police refused to intervene.
  • How: Six tractors circled the caravans, spraying manure directly onto the site. Some residents attempted to stop the tractors but were ignored.
  • Police Involvement: Farmers allege they received no help from law enforcement, prompting this radical action.
  • Public Reaction: Many online commenters support the farmers, citing frustration with law enforcement and bureaucracy across Europe.
  • Not an Isolated Incident: A UK farmer pulled a similar stunt last year in Devon, soaking an illegal camper’s tent in manure.

Key Takeaways for Arizona Investors:

  • Land rights enforcement varies wildly across countries. In France, lack of eviction enforcement led to extreme self-help actions.
  • Property owners should understand how their rights are protected, and limited, by law.
  • In Arizona, legal eviction tools exist and should be leveraged proactively to avoid similar confrontations.