Do not be surprised if you encounter farmers on your daily commute over the next several weeks. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the dry weather allowed farmers nearly a full seven days suitable for fieldwork last week. That has allowed farmers to catch up on its corn for silage harvest, which at 23 percent complete puts the state about three days behind last year and two years behind average. Soybean coloring reached 75 percent, four days ahead of the pace of last year and the average, while 41 percent had leaves dropping. Harvesting crops is not the only thing keeping farmers busy, as winter wheat planting was 23 percent complete, and the fourth cutting of alfalfa is about 63 complete.
All of these different activities are keeping farmers out on the road for long periods of time, something Rio Creek Feed Mill agronomist Adam Barta suggests will occur over the next six weeks. With the country recognizing National Farm Safety and Health Week through September 21st, Barta says there are things we can all do to keep each other safe.
In honor of National Farm Safety and Health Week, Door County Medical Center is offering free yard signs to remind motorists of the slow traffic on the roadway.
According to the most recent Wisconsin Farm Related Fatalities report, nearly one in five farm deaths occur on state roads. Below, you can find more tips about what to do when you encounter a slow-moving vehicle.
- Slow down immediately
- Increase following distance to create a safety cushion
- Be alert and watch for unexpected turns
- Pass with care only when it is safe and legal to do so
- Be aware that animal-powered vehicles may make unanticipated movements
- Be aware that equipment in tow may sway on the road
- Remember slow moving vehicle operators may have poor visibility due to loads and equipment in tow
