SALISBURY, Md. — Farm managers and employees ready to learn beyond basic operations can register for a Tractor College offered at three locations across Maryland this winter. Speakers from the Maryland Department of Transportation, University of Maryland Extension and Horizon Farm Credit will cover topics such as truck and tractor operations, transportation law, finance, hazardous materials, inspections, legal risks, road safety and more.
Sponsored by the Maryland Soybean Board (MSB) and Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB), the first workshop was held in Talbot County last year. This winter the workshops will be offered in Charles, Frederick and Harford Counties.
“These workshops provide valuable information to our farmers for safe and legal operations,” said John Bruning, MGPUB President and farmer from Worcester County. “It is particularly valuable to young and beginning farmers as they navigate beyond basic operations of farm equipment.”
The Tractor Colleges are part of MSB’s ongoing road safety campaign supported by multiple organizations, including the MGPUB. The campaign seeks to decrease accidents and improve road safety on Maryland roads, focusing on slow moving vehicle (SMV) education both for SMV drivers to be as proactive as possible, and for those drivers who encounter SMVs on the road. The campaign website, www.FindMeDriving.com houses a collection of safety-related resources available to view and order, including posters and window clings which feature safety checklists before taking an SMV on the road, motorist safety tips brochure, and training videos to share for both motorists and SMV drivers.
“Farmers driving SMVs can do so much to raise awareness of their presence on the road to other faster-moving vehicles,” said Joshua Appenzeller, MSB Chairman and farmer from Queen Anne’s County. “It comes down to learning operational best practices, which are covered in this workshop.”
Workshop dates are:
- January 23, Charles County Soil Conservation District Office, Waldorf
- January 25, Harford County Extension Office, Street
- March 3, Gladhill Tractor, Frederick
Tractor Colleges are provided complimentary to attendees and includes lunch. Advance registration is required at www.mdsoy.eventbrite.com. Further details are available from this site.
—Danielle Bauer Farace, Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board
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