Farming can be a risky business, especially for youth and those new to the farming environment. To minimize the chance of injuries to those working on Maine farms, University of Maine Cooperative Extension offers five-part tractor safety courses every spring at locations throughout the state.

This May, 16 youth, new farm workers, and tractor owners successfully completed the federally certified course in Gorham. These participants learned about the risks of farm work and equipment operation, and basic maintenance skills. They also gained hands-on experience in safe tractor operation, and awareness of the prevalent hazards. Youths ages 14 and 15 received the federal certification required to operate equipment on farms owned by non-relatives, opening up opportunities for employment on local farms.

The course was made possible by Shaw Brothers Construction, staff at Cherry Hill Shaw Farm, Jeff Grant of Findview Farm in Gorham and Tim Bartlett of Applewood Farm in New Gloucester who volunteered their time as co-instructors for the course, and the Town of Gorham. Cumberland County 4-H staff also provided educational support for youth in the course.

The contributions of other sponsors like Bassett Healthcare Network of Cooperstown, New York, and the Northeast Ag Safety Coalition ensured all students had access to up-to-date textbooks and other materials.

The next farm tractor safety certification course in Cumberland County will be held in Topsham in 2027, and will then return to Gorham in 2028. To request a local tractor safety training, contact Jason Lilley at (207) 781.6099 or jason.lilley@maine.edu. More information about existing offerings and resources can be found on the Farm Tractor Safety Course webpage.