Buchanan County Farm Bureau Ag Safety Day

Buchanan County Farm Bureau welcomed Independence and Jesup FFA students to Erger Family Farms on April 1st for a hands on Ag Safety Day focused on preparing young agricultural leaders to recognize and reduce on the farm risks. The event highlighted the strength of community partnerships, bringing together farm families, first responders, local businesses, and educators with a shared commitment to
safety.

Students were divided into small groups and rotated through a series of interactive safety stations, each led by experienced professionals. Organizers noted strong student engagement throughout the day as participants asked questions, practiced techniques, and observed realworld demonstrations.

One station, led by Recker Aerial Solutions, focused on drone safety and the growing role of unmanned aircraft in modern agriculture. Students learned the importance of responsible drone operation, including completing preflight checks, maintaining visual line of sight, avoiding livestock, power lines, and people, and following FAA regulations for both recreational and commercial use.

At the PPE and biological safety station, representatives from New Fields Ag demonstrated proper donning and doffing of personal protective equipment while emphasizing the company’s “Cleaner. Safer. Greener.” approach. Students learned how appropriate gloves, eye protection, and clothing help prevent exposure, and why proper removal, handwashing, and secure storage of materials are essential to biological safety.

Trailer loading and strapping safety was reviewed by Andy Erger, who guided students through best practices for transporting equipment. Topics included even weight distribution, using appropriate straps, checking equipment for wear, and ensuring all loads are fully secured before transport.

First responders from Independence Fire & Rescue presented a grain bin safety demonstration using grain tubes to show how grain entrapment rescues are performed. Students were reminded never to enter a grain bin alone, to lock out and tag out augers before entry, to use harnesses and lifelines when possible, and to maintain grain quality to reduce crusting and bridging hazards.

PTO and machinery safety, led by Bodensteiner Implement, highlighted the dangers of moving equipment parts using a small tractor and an X9 combine. In addition to reviewing the importance of shields, guards, and proper shutdown procedures, students observed a powerful blind spot demonstration. A spray was placed in front of a Smart car to illustrate how easily low profile vehicles can disappear from an operator’s view when operating large agricultural equipment. The demonstration reinforced the importance of never assuming an operator can see nearby vehicles or people and underscored the need for heightened awareness and communication around machinery.

The day also included a Stop the Bleed training session led by Buchanan County Health Center, where students practiced packing wounds and learned techniques to control severe bleeding. Training emphasized applying firm, direct pressure, using gauze or clean cloths, applying tourniquets when necessary, and calling 911 during emergency situations.

Through collaboration and hands on learning, students gained practical knowledge and confidence to make safer decisions both on and off the farm.

photos courtesy of Buchanan County Farm Bureau