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Iowa farmer stresses on-farm, roadway safety

A central Iowa farmer says safety is his biggest priority on the farm, especially during harvest season.

Corey Goodhue farms near Carlisle and serves on the board of directors for the Iowa Soybean Association. “Harvest can feel like a mad rush at times with long hours,” he said. “I think it’s real important as we get started with harvest to check your fire extinguishers, check your first aid kits, and talk with everybody that helps you about what their responsibilities are every day to be safe.”

He tells Brownfield transporting equipment is another concern. “We just can’t move any faster than we’re moving. It’s not our intent to hold anybody up. I think most people give us some grace there and I really appreciate that.”

Goodhue says it’s also critical for growers to take breaks to help limit fatigue. “Fatigue has got to be one of the biggest drivers of mistakes. (Farmers) are generally solid decision makers, but get them worn down and that can lead to a bad situation.”

National Farm Safety and Health Week runs through Saturday.