File photo of a John Deere X9 combine. (Deere.ca)

American Farm Bureau, Deere sign ‘right to repair’ memo

MOU to seek private-sector solutions

Chicago | Reuters — The American Farm Bureau Federation and machinery manufacturer Deere and Co. signed a memorandum of understanding on Sunday that ensures farmers have the right to repair their own farm equipment or go to an independent technician. As the agriculture sector accelerates its adoption of technology, the reliance on high-tech machinery such […] Read more


chimney

Winter brings higher carbon monoxide risk

Along with winter comes the increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. The danger not only exists in homes with natural gas furnaces but also in barns, sheds, garages or workshops that have fuel-powered heating systems or where work is being performed with internal combustion engines. Many people using equipment like compressors, generators, welders and even […] Read more



Wheat fields being harvested

Protect yourself from developing respiratory problems

Grain dust may be commonplace on farms, but respiratory problems don’t need to be

It’s harvest season and that means two things are common sights on farms across the country — combines and grain dust. Just because grain dust is a regular occurrence on many farms doesn’t mean you should ignore it. In fact, grain dust can wreak significant havoc and long-lasting damage on your lungs with repeated exposure. […] Read more

How to protect your farm business against cyberthreats

How to protect your farm business against cyberthreats

Phishing emails aren’t the only thing to worry about. Cybersecurity means staying safe from ransomware hacks and other forms of cyberattacks

The concept of the connected farm has been gaining traction in recent years, with more producers opting for technologies that link their systems and equipment with on-farm networks and the cloud. These developments have brought more efficiency, productivity and profitability to many farm businesses, but it doesn’t come without risk. If not adequately protected, data […] Read more


Safety days aim to keep farm kids safe and healthy

Progressive Agriculture Foundation (PAF) Safety Days are an educational initiative designed to make farm and ranch life safer and healthier for children and their communities. The program provides training and resources for local communities to conduct one-day safety and health programs, with age-appropriate activities that are hands-on, fun and safe for children.  At the PAF […] Read more



Know the width and height of your equipment and adjust mirrors as needed. This will help ensure safe travel and clearance with potential obstructions such as road signs, overhead lines and bridges.

Safety while sharing the road: it’s a two-way street

Too often, many of us overlook the fact that we might be sharing the road with agricultural equipment. We hear of traffic incidents involving motor vehicles and agricultural equipment on public roadways every year. Unfortunately, many of these incidents have severe outcomes for motorists and farm equipment operators alike. In fact, according to Canadian Agricultural […] Read more

Road safety a shared responsibility

Road safety a shared responsibility

Sgt. Mark Hume has seen a lot on the roadways of Manitoba as a unit commander with RCMP Traffic Services. And working in rural Manitoba, it’s no surprise that he’s seen several roadway incidents involving agricultural equipment. He recalled an incident on Highway 5 by Gilbert Plains, located about 350 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg. On […] Read more