Cornstalks and courtesy: ‘Decorating’ shouldn’t mean stealing crops

As the air turns crisp and porches begin to glow with pumpkins, mums, and golden cornstalks, fall brings with it a certain aesthetic charm. But behind the picturesque displays and Instagram-worthy decorations lies a troubling trend that’s been quietly affecting local farmers — the unauthorized cutting of cornstalks from private fields.

I live on a rural road, and more than once, I’ve watched vehicles unknown to this area drive past my house, only to return with trunks overflowing with freshly cut cornstalks. Not purchased. Not requested. Taken.

At first glance, it might seem harmless. After all, it’s “just a few stalks,” right?

But here’s where a simple children’s book can offer a powerful lesson.

‘If Everybody Did’

In the book “If Everybody Did” by Jo Ann Stover, each page illustrates the consequences of one person doing something seemingly small — spilling milk, dropping litter, interrupting — and shows how quickly chaos unfolds if everybody did the same thing. It’s a humorous yet profound reminder that individual actions, multiplied across a community, have real consequences.

Now let’s apply that thinking to this situation.

If one person takes a bundle of cornstalks, maybe the farmer barely notices. But if everybody who wanted a fall display helped themselves to “just a few,” entire rows could disappear. These stalks are not just scenery — they’re part of a livelihood. Corn left in the field may still serve a purpose: feeding livestock, protecting soil, or being part of a rotation plan. Cutting down even what appears to be leftover or “dry” corn can disrupt a farmer’s operation.

It’s unneighborly

Beyond the practical damage, there’s a deeper issue: it’s simply unneighborly.

Taking anything from someone else’s property without permission is, by definition, theft. But more than that, it’s a breach of trust.

Many of us who live near farmland have chosen these communities because of a shared sense of respect, space, and mutual care. Ignoring those values for the sake of a seasonal decoration is not only disrespectful — it chips away at the social fabric that makes small-town and rural life meaningful.

Buy from local farmers

So what can we do instead?

Buy from local farms. Many farmers or farm stands sell cornstalks, pumpkins, hay bales, and other fall decor. Supporting them is a way to celebrate the season ethically.

Ask permission. If you truly believe some stalks are abandoned or unused, it never hurts to knock on a door or leave a note.

Spread awareness. Not everyone realizes the impact of their actions. Share the story. Talk to neighbors. Model respect.

Fall is a season of harvest, gratitude, and gathering. Let’s not let our decorations come at the expense of someone else’s hard work. Because if everybody took just a little without asking … well, we already know how that story ends.

Emily Hamilton lives in Marion.