Farming can be a risky business, especially for youth and those new to the farming environment. To minimize the chance of injuries to those working on Maine farms, the University of Maine Cooperative Extension offers five-part tractor safety courses every spring at locations throughout the state.

In May, 15 youth and new farm workers and tractor owners successfully completed the federally certified course. Participants learned about the risks of farm work and equipment operation, and basic maintenance skills. They also gained hands-on experience in safe tractor operation, and awareness of the prevalent hazards. Youth ages 14 and 15 received certification to operate equipment on farms owned by non-relatives, opening up new job opportunities for them.

The course was made possible by the Town of Gorham, MB Tractor and Equipment of Gorham who provided a tractor for the course, and Jeff Grant of Findview Farm in Gorham who volunteered time as co-instructor for the course.

Other sponsors were Bassett Healthcare Network, Cooperstown, New York; Hall Implement Co., Windham; and the Cumberland County Chapter of the Maine Farm Bureau.

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension supports UMaine’s land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. It is the only entity in our state that touches every aspect of the Maine Food System, where policy, research, production, processing, commerce, nutrition, food security and safety are integral and interrelated. UMaine Extension also conducts the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in Maine through 4-H.

To request a local tractor safety training, contact Jason Lilley at 207-781-6099 or jason.lilley@maine.edu.