RENSSELAER CO., N.Y. — 4-H members from Washington, Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer and Saratoga Counties participated in The National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program during April break, earning a U.S. Department of Labor’s Certificate of Completion.  The NSTMOP requires successfully completing homework, written test, skills and driving tests.  The certification is required for youth 14 & 15 years old to work with tractors and machinery on farms and agribusinesses other than family operated.

During this program, teens visited agriculture businesses throughout the region to get a real-life overview on the occupational hazards of farming.  The Eckhardt family of Kinderhook Creek Farm in Stephentown, provided insight to the safety precautions implemented on their family farm with a behind the scenes tour of their operations. Tim Havens from Falls Farm & Garden provided a hands-on review of tractor and chain saw maintenance and safety.  New York Center for Agricultural Medicine & Health gave a presentation to enhance agricultural and rural health by talking about the preventative measures that should be taken on a farm.

Thanks to the support from our community partners: NYCAMH of Bassett Healthcare Network, Glens Falls Hospital, Capital Tractor, Falls, Farm and Garden Equipment, H & M Equipment Co., Salem Farm Supply, Kinderhook Creek Farm, Saratoga Sod and First Pioneer Farm Credit for providing equipment and teaching segments of the program. Without their support this program would not be possible! If you, or someone you know would like more information about our Annual 4-H Tractor Safety Program or 4-H in general, please contact your local Cornell Cooperative Extension Office.

–Cornell Cooperative Extension Rensselaer County