Make Safety a Top Priority on Your Farm

The approach of harvest season is an excellent reminder to keep farm safety top of mind for any operation, including livestock. Safety prevents injuries and fatal on-farm incidents, which can cost a farm as much as $6 billion, according to Michigan State Extension Educator Martin Mangual. But the emotional tolls aren’t quite as quantifiable, he says, making preemptive safety measures worth their weight in gold.

Feed and manure storage, silage piles and equipment thoroughfares remain some of the most dangerous parts of any livestock operation. Producers should take steps to mitigate risk in these areas, including minimizing the size of piles and creating a safe clearance zone for bunks.

Read more on farm safety and best practices here.