Nebraska Farmers Emphasize Safety During Harvest Season

As harvest season approaches in Nebraska, farmers and rural communities are being reminded to prioritize safety during National Farm Safety and Health Week, which takes place from September 21-25. This year's theme, 'Safety Today, Success Tomorrow,' emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to stay safe during one of the busiest seasons in agriculture.

According to Andy Groskopf, chairman of the Nebraska Corn Board, farming comes with real risks, and safety should be a top priority. He notes that long hours, heavy machinery, and unpredictable weather put farmers and rural residents at risk every season, making safety a year-round concern rather than an afterthought.

The Nebraska Corn Board and the Nebraska Corn Growers Association are encouraging farmers to take care of themselves both physically and mentally during harvest. This includes scheduling breaks and getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, and paying attention to mental health needs. They also recommend teaching youth safe habits early on, including the importance of staying away from running equipment.

The organizations also remind motorists to be patient when traveling through rural areas during harvest traffic and to be aware of Nebraska's move-over law, which requires drivers to slow down and move over for stopped vehicles and vulnerable road users, including agricultural vehicles and equipment.