#United States #Maryland #Maryland Soybean Board #farm safety #slow-moving vehicles

Maryland's Upcoming Fall Harvest Season

As autumn approaches, the fall harvest season is about to commence in Maryland, bringing with it a familiar sight on the roads: farm equipment. Farmers across the state will be actively transporting their harvests and this year, local drivers are reminded to stay alert and to safely share the road with these slower-moving vehicles.

The Maryland Soybean Board has initiated a public awareness campaign named "Find Me Driving," emphasizing the significance of road safety during this essential agricultural period. Belinda Burrier, a farmer from Union Bridge, discussed the challenges farmers face during the harvest, stating, “Harvest season is a very busy time for farmers, and moving equipment between fields is a necessary part of the job.” She added that while it can be frustrating for drivers encountering slow-moving vehicles, a little patience can greatly enhance the safety of both farmers and road users.

Farm machinery is specifically designed for agriculture, travelling at speeds often capped at 25 mph or lower, posing particular risks on public roads. The Maryland Soybean Board advises motorists to look out for the triangular slow-moving vehicle sign prominently displayed on the back of such equipment. Drivers should reduce their speed, allow ample space between their vehicles and the farm machinery, and only overtake when it is safe and permissible to do so. The cooperation between farmers and motorists is crucial during the busy harvest season, as outlined in the Find Me Driving initiative, which aims to foster greater awareness and responsibility on the roads.

Danielle Bauer, the Executive Director of the Maryland Soybean Board, emphasized the necessity of awareness during this time. “During the fall harvest season, slow-moving vehicles are a necessary part of our farming communities,” Bauer noted. She highlighted the importance of the Find Me Driving campaign and its mascot, SAM®, who serves as a symbol for road safety tips — Slow down. Assess your surroundings. Move with caution. This campaign is intended not just to inform drivers but also to remind them of their role in ensuring the safety of everyone on the road.

With over 12,600 farms in Maryland, the agricultural sector plays a vital role in the state’s economy, contributing more than $8 billion annually. The soybean industry alone represents a significant portion of this, generating more than $270 million in production value. This illustrates not only the importance of the harvest itself but also the impact that safe road practices have on the livelihoods of countless individuals.

As the fall harvest season approaches, farmers will be moving equipment and produce from fields to markets, often utilizing public roads. Therefore, motorists are strongly encouraged to cooperate by maintaining a safe distance and exercising patience when encountering farm equipment. Road safety is a mutual responsibility that depends on every individual’s commitment to being aware and considerate on the roads.

For additional information on farm equipment safety during the fall harvest season, you can visit FindMeDriving.com or follow the campaign on social media for updates and safety tips.

About the Maryland Soybean Board

The Maryland Soybean Board is a pivotal entity in the soybean industry, funded by the national soybean checkoff program. This program involves assessing a small percentage of the net market value of soybeans at their initial sale point, and the board comprises ten volunteer farmer-directors who guide funds used for research, marketing, and education aimed at enhancing the Maryland soybean industry. More information is available at mdsoy.org.