Agronomy
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SAFETY TIPS EVERY FARMER SHOULD KNOW
Take advantage of the prepaid discounted prices available for your crop inputs for next year . Applications for the ProPartners Financial 2014 Crop Input Financing Program are now available .
Contact Doug Kraska ( 952 ) 466-3750 or Dick Pauly ( 952 ) 466-3701
WHAT IS VRT ?
Joe Forner Agronomist
( 952 ) 466-3730
joef @ midcountycoop . com
Have you tried Variable Rate Technology ( VRT ) yet ?
If not , give us a call at Mid-County Agronomy , and we ’ ll help you get started .
Essentially , VRT is any technology that allows you to vary
your rate of crop inputs . By adjusting the amount of seed , fertilizer , and weed / insect control , you ’ re able to optimize your land use .
An average field has more than one type of soil . By calculating the precise input amounts needed in each section , farmers can eliminate wasteful spending and boost yields .
VRT at Mid-County Coop involves a few
Considered one of America ’ s most dangerous occupations , farming poses risks for several types of injuries . Knowing how to be safe on the job is crucial for your health , as well as the success of your operation .
Tractor overturns
According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration ( OSHA ), the leading cause of death for farm workers is tractor overturns . One way to help prevent this type of accident is the use of a Roll-Over Protective Structure ( ROPS ), which can be retrofitted to your tractor . The devices are highly effective in reducing fatality rates during overturns , and work best when used with a seatbelt .
Grain bin traps
Grain bin safety is also necessary for agricultural workers . In 2010 , a record-high 26 people died from grain bin suffocation , according to OSHA .
This type of accident happens when a person tries to walk on the grain , but the grain suddenly collapses , acting like quicksand to pull the person down . Prevention involves not entering grain storage facilities without taking proper precautions . First , all equipment should be turned off , so that the grain is not moving . A person shouldn ’ t enter a grain bin without another person nearby , in case assistance is needed . Anyone who enters a bin should wear a lifeline , positioned so that they won ’ t sink further than waist deep in grain . Workers should also
steps . First , we collect soil samples from 2.5- acre grids on your field , and analyze the data through a customizable computer program .
After the recommended inputs are calculated , the data is transferred to either the fertilizer applicator , planter , sprayer , or other machinery equipped with global positioning system ( GPS ) technology will read the correct inputs .
In the field , the machinery is able to accurately dispense fertilizer and other inputs , automatically adjusting for each location .
Soil testing also gives you information about any problems that need correction , such as fertility or low pH levels .
Of the farmers who do business with Mid- County Coop , the vast majority choose to utilize VRT .
The investment pays off quickly , and is especially beneficial in times of escalating www . midcountycoop . com
have rescue equipment readily available .
Electrical hazards
Electrical safety on a farm requires continual maintenance . The harvest season is a great time to inspect your machinery and electrical equipment , making sure all connections are secure , and wires have not been damaged by rodents . It ’ s also good to check the height of electrical lines , to ensure that they won ’ t make contact with equipment driving through .
A few other dangers
Falls : Look for fall hazards on your farm , such as slippery or uneven surfaces . Install handrails on equipment and along walkways .
Lifting : Move to a squatting position and use leg muscles when lifting heavy objects . Take frequent stretch breaks , and avoid twisting your back .
Chemicals : Wear protective clothing when using chemicals , and avoid touching your face if your hands might be contaminated .
Noise : To reduce hearing loss risk , wear ear protection when operating tractors and other machinery .
Weather : Wear sunscreen or widebrimmed hats to reduce skin cancer risk . On hot days , drink plenty of water and take a break if you have heat exhaustion symptoms ( dizziness , headache , weakness , etc ). In the winter , keep extremities well insulated to prevent frostbite .
VRT By
input prices . No matter what the size of the field , farmers are seeing the advantages .
VRT gives you more control over your crops , maximizing efficiency and production potential . If you ’ d like to learn more , give us a call at ( 952 ) 466-3730 . We ’ re looking forward to helping you get the most out of your field !