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!