Several K-State Research & Extension Districts will be offering a Hazardous Occupation Safety Training in Agriculture or Tractor and Farm Safety Course from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 30 in Hill City at the Graham County Fairgrounds 4-H Building. 

The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14-15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents. However, there are several cases where youth may be required to take the training even though they are working on the “family farm.” For instance, if the parent is a partner or member of a farm corporation or if the youth is legally employed by grandparents, the law requires youth participate in the course. Any employer who plans to hire youth under 16 years of age must make sure they attend this tractor and farm safety course.   

Certification will be presented to participants who meet all of the following: attend the entire session, complete all assignments, successfully complete tractor safety exam, safely demonstrate the ability to operate a tractor and all its controls according to safe operating procedures under the supervision of a parent or employer, youth ages 14-15 years (others will receive certification at the time they turn 14). 

There is a $10 fee to attend and RSVP is requested by Friday, April 22nd. Thank you to our lunch and refreshment sponsor, People’s State Bank! This program is being offered and taught by Extension Agents in the Cottonwood, Twin Creeks, Golden Prairie and Phillips/Rooks Extension Districts. To register contact any of the above Extension Districts by Saturday, April 22 to register and pickup study materials before-hand. 

Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent for Cottonwood Extension District. Email him at scampbel@ksu.edu or call the Hays office, 785-628-9430.