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April 19th, 2011

FARM MACHINERY SAFETY WORKSHOP

Who and When:
Safety workshops will be held on Wednesday evenings for 6 weeks (May 11 - June 15; 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.) to teach students how to operate farm equipment safely. On Saturday, June 18, there will be an all-day farm implement driving practicum for the final certification process. Individuals from all counties are eligible to attend the training; however, certification will only be granted to those students who pass the written and driving exams and are above 13 years of age.

Why:
Federal law requires those driving tractors for hire to be at least 16 years old. An age-exception is allowed 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.

According to the U.S. Ag census approximately 300 children in the United States are killed each year in farm accidents. Many of these accidents can be prevented if youth receive adequate safety education.

Sponsors:
The certification training is coordinated and sponsored by WSU Skagit County Extension, WSU Extension Livestock Advisors, and Brim Tractor.

Times and locations:
The week-night classes will be from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday nights at WSU NWREC located at 16650 Hwy 536 in west Mount Vernon.

For those completing the night classes, the Saturday practicum and certification will be held at WSU NWREC in Mount Vernon, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on June 18. Lunch will be provided by the WSU Livestock Advisors.

Cost:
The cost of the certified training is $50 and will be refunded to participants with proper behavior, perfect attendance, and completion of the course. Scholarships are available. Pre-registration is required by May 5. Space is limited, so register early or call to see if there is space available. To learn more, contact WSU Skagit County Extension at 428-4270 ext 225, or email donaldm@co.skagit.wa.us. Register by mailing a check made out to WSU Skagit County Extension to:

WSU Skagit County Extension
Attn: Don McMoran
11768 Westar Ln, Suite A
Burlington, WA 98233