SARATOGA CO., N.Y. — 17 teens from across the Capital Region completed the NSTOP Tractor Safety Program offered by the 4-H Youth Development Program. This intensive course requires youth to demonstrate knowledge and skills related to safely working within the agriculture industry. The certification that is earned is needed for youth ages 14-15 to operate certain types of machinery while being employed in the agricultural field.

The 2020 Tractor Safety program had to adapt due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with much of the programming taking place in a virtual space. The youth participated in an online learning environment, and even had the opportunity to practice and demonstrate equipment operation while observing all necessary safety guidelines.

Leland Bunting, 4-H Resource Educator with CCE of Saratoga County says, “The annual 4-H Tractor Safety program is a very important offering from our Capital District 4-H program. The skills that the youth learn go deeper than operation of equipment, and really make the participants aware of the many hazards that exist while working in agriculture. When we certify a youth, we feel confident that they possess the knowledge and skills necessary to learn and work safely in agriculture. This certification is very important for many of our youth, as it is commonly a requirement for summer employment. We hope that the skills learned in this program allow our youth to explore their passion for agriculture.”

The 4-H Tractor Safety program is offered every spring through Cornell Cooperative Extension, and is open to all youth ages 14 and older. If you would like more information about the 2021 program, contact your local Cornell Cooperative Extension office.

–Cornell Cooperative Extension Saratoga County

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