News

Don’t rush through planting

 

Warmer weather nearing 80 degrees and dry conditions helped farmers cover a lot of ground over the weekend.

“This weekend was probably our busiest weekend of planting we’ve have this year and maybe we’ll have the whole year.”

Kevin Hoffman, DuPont Pioneer Account Manager for South Central Michigan says while farmers are in a rush, it’s important to be safe. He says farmers need to be aware while driving on main roads and when working on equipment.

“I’ve had farmers that have been seriously injured and even killed over just forgetting about one little safety thing that could have saved their life or the life of somebody else.”

He says farmers should shut down equipment completely before making adjustments. Any visitors to the field, Hoffman says, should call the equipment operator in advance.

Hoffman also says equipment operators should use slow moving vehicle signs and proper signals when traveling.

AUDIO: Interview with Kevin Hoffman (3:25 mp3):