Southeast Center

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Our fall events are just around the corner. Registration information is coming soon. University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment University of Kentucky Robinson Wood Utilization Center - RCARS

Congratulations Melissa!

For Immediate Release -- NFMC staff member named president-elect Email from Marshfield Clinic Celebrating Leadership in Agriculture: Read about Melissa's New Role at ISASH!     NFMC staff member named president-elect of international ag safety group   To view this

Dale had amazing partners across Kentucky--and the country. We want to keep you informed about opportunities that honor his legacy. Share your info and we will keep you informed, especially for Farmer Appreciation Day on September 23!

Use this link:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KVV8XGL

🌲 Safe Cutting is Smart Cutting: Quick Logging Safety Checklist!

Whether you’re harvesting timber or just clearing blowdown on the farm, safety comes before the first saw pull.
Before you head into the woods, run through these essential checks:🛡️

1. Gear Up (No Exceptions)Helmet + Shield: Protect against falling limbs ("widowmakers") & flying debris. Chaps: Chainsaw-resistant chaps stop a spinning chain in milliseconds. Boots & Gloves: Steel/composite toes with strong tread & heavy-duty grip gloves .Ears & Eyes: Rated ear protection & safety glasses under your visor.🌳

2. Size Up the TreeCheck for trunk rot, heavy lean, or loose branches hanging above. Know the Wind: Avoid felling on gusty days. Clear the Zone: Keep bystanders 2 tree-lengths back. Plan Your Escape: Clear TWO paths out at a $45^\circ$ angle behind the fall direction.🪓

3. Prevent Chainsaw Kickback Two Hands Always: Wrap fingers firmly around both handles.Check the Chain Brake: Test it before you crank the saw.Cut Below Shoulder Height: Never cut higher than your chest.this!

Safety on the farm starts long before you turn the key. Whether you're heading out to cut hay, haul equipment, or perform routine chores, keeping tractor safety top of mind protects you, your family, and your team.

Here are essential tractor safety practices every operator should follow:

🚜 Essential Tractor Safety Tips
Always Use ROPS and Seatbelts: Rollover Protective Structures (ROPS) save lives. Always wear your seatbelt when operating a tractor equipped with a ROPS. (If folding down ROPS for low clearance, fold it back up immediately afterward).

Avoid Rollovers: Take turns slowly, watch for steep slopes or ditches, and keep heavy loads (like front-end loaders) low to the ground while moving.

Keep Shields & PTO Guards in Place: Master shields and PTO driveline guards prevent devastating entanglement injuries. Never operate equipment with damaged or missing safety guards.

No Extra Riders: Tractors are designed for one person unless equipped with a designated passenger seat and seatbelt. "One seat, one rider."

Safe Mounting & Dismounting: Maintain three points of contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) when getting on or off the tractor. Never jump off or step on moving parts.

Shut Down Properly: Always disengage the PTO, lower all hydraulic equipment to the ground, set the parking brake, and shut off the engine before dismounting.

It's National Farmers Market Week!

There's no better time to support one of the nearly 180 farmers' markets across the Bluegrass State. Every purchase helps strengthen local agriculture and supports the people who grow our food. Share your market finds with us and celebrate National Farmers Market Week! What's on your list? 🤔