Frm Machinery Safety Workshop
Rebecca Moore
Calling all beginning or aspiring tractor operators!
WSU Skagit Extension is offering a five week Farm Machinery Safety course coming up at the end of May. This course is highly recommended for new operators, or anyone looking to gain a solid foundation in safe tractor operation. Though the course is being offered as an in-person class, the organizers have offered to make a zoom link available for islanders who cannot make the trip over to Burlington. Please contact Don McMoran at Skagit Extension if you are interested in this virtual option. See below for details.
FARM MACHINERY SAFETY WORKSHOP
Spring 2024
Evening classes
Monday and Wednesday
5-7 pm
May 20th—June 19th
Burlington (with an option to attend virtually over Zoom)
Instructors
Don McMoran, Deb Eidsnes and Maddy VanderKooy Washington State University Skagit County Extension
SPRING 2024
Who can attend?
Individuals in all counties are eligible to attend the training. Last year’s class contained a good mix of middle school, high school and Spanish- and English-speaking adults. Certification can be obtained for students 13 years of age and above.
Why attend?
According to the U.S. Ag Census, the leading sources of fatal injuries to youth on U.S. farms, 23% percent involved machinery (includes tractors), 19% involved motor vehicles (includes ATVs), and 16% were due to drowning. Many of these accidents can be prevented with adequate safety education.
Certification?
Federal law requires those driving tractors for hire to be at least 16 years old. An exception is if they are 14 or 15 years old and have completed a safety course like this one, or if a student is enrolled as a vocational agriculture student.
But I already know how to drive a tractor and I’m really safe?
Great, register, take the written test, the preoperational test and the driving test. Pass each test, pay your fee, and you will be done on the first week.
Where is the workshop?
The workshop will be held at WSU Skagit County Extension in Burlington. The address is 11768 Westar Lane, suite A.
There will also be an option to attend virtually via zoom, but those attending on zoom will need to go to Burlington for the driving test. Please contact Don McMoran if you are interested in this virtual attendance option- dmcm...@wsu.edu
What does it cost?
The total cost of the workshop is $75. A deposit of $25 is required hold your spot. The remaining $50 is due by the end of the course if you wish to receive a certificate. If you do not want a certificate, your total cost is $25.
Are there scholarships?
Yes, please email the instructor.
How do I register? Space is limited. Register by printing the attached flier, tearing off the form on the front side of this document and mailing it and a check made out to WSU Skagit County Extension to the address on the form. To learn more, feel free to contact WSU Skagit County Extension at 360-428-4270 ext 225 or email dmcm...@wsu.edu
Extension programs and policies are available to all without discrimination. To request disability accommodations contact us at least ten days in advance.
Agriculture Program Coordinator
WSU Extension | San Juan County
office | 360.370.7664
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of non-compliance may be reported through your local Extension office or to the WSU Center for Human Rights.