The Clay County Planning Commission approved an interim use permit that allows Doubting Thomas Farms, operated by Noreen Thomas, to host agricultural‑tourism and educational events for up to six months each year through Dec. 31, 2030.

Planning staff described the property north of Moorhead as zoned Agricultural General and largely in the regulatory floodway; staff said the farm’s location and planned outdoor events fit the temporary‑use rules and that the property would be positively affected if the Fargo‑Moorhead diversion reduces the mapped floodway in the future. Staff recommended conditions to reduce impacts on neighbors.

The permit includes conditions requiring the facility to obtain all federal, state and local licenses (including any required food/beverage licensure through the Clay County Environmental Health Division), a parking plan that provides space for a minimum of 100 vehicles (each space at least 10 by 20 feet and 300 square feet including access), a prohibition on permanent structures for the temporary use, Minnesota Department of Public Safety permits for tents larger than 1,500 square feet, events limited to May 1–Nov. 1 annually, and that the interim use permit will expire Dec. 31, 2030.

At the hearing Noreen Thomas told commissioners the farm hosts university groups and educational classes and said agritourism helps keep people connected to the county. “We plan to do some farm to table meals with a chef catered, and bring people out to the country,” Thomas said. She also described agritourism as a growing sector and said it helps local businesses and the county economy.

Commissioners discussed signage standards, and staff agreed to a condition that any sign meet Clay County sign standards. The motion to approve was made by Commissioner Morgeo and seconded by Commissioner Brad; the commission voted to approve the permit with the listed conditions.