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Lomira
Dodge County Pionier • February 20, 2020 • Page 39
National FFA Week February 22-29
Facts And Figures On Farm Safety According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, agriculture is among the most hazardous industries. Fatal and nonfatal injuries pose a significant threat to farmers, including the many young people who work on farms. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, in an effort to promote productive and safe workplaces, supports programs that conduct research on injuries associated with agriculture as well as pesticide exposure, pulmonary disease, musculoskeletal disorders, hearing loss, and stress. Studying the results of such research, compiled by NIOSH, may compel veteran and novice farmers to further emphasize safety measures and promote practices that
can reduce risk for accidents on the farm. • Estimates indicate that there were roughly 2.1 million full-time workers employed in production agriculture in 2017 and between 1.4 and 2.1 million hired crop workers employed annually on crop farms in the United States. • An estimated 893,000 young people under 20 years of age resided on farms in 2014. More than half of those young people performed farm work, and an additional 266,000 youth were hired to work on farms in 2014. • Each day, roughly 100 agricultural workers suffer injuries that cause them to miss time at work. • In 2014, 12,000 youth were injured on farms, and 4,000 of those youths could trace
their injuries to farm work. • In 2016, 417 farmers and farm workers died from work-related injuries. Tractor overturns and other transportation incidents were the leading cause of death for these farmers and farm workers. • A rollover protection system, or ROPS, is a structure, similar to rollcages and rollbars in cars and trucks, intended to protect farm equipment operators from injuries caused by overturns or rollovers. NIOSH notes that an ROPS is the most effective way to prevent overturn deaths. Despite that, in 2014, only 62 percent of tractors used on farms in the U.S. were equipped with an ROPS.
The 2019-20 FFA officers in Lomira. Pictured, starting in the back on the left, are Katelyn King (vice president,) Jacob Falk (president) and Autumn Schrauth (secretary). In the front are Madelyn King (sentinel), Parker Litterick (reporter), Mark Selzler (vice president), Paige Thomas (treasurer) and Lydia Thomas (parliamentarian). (photo courtesy of Gueller’s Photography)
How To Protect Livestock In Extreme Weather Extreme weather is seldom fun for anyone. Although people often have the means to escape inclement weather, animals are at the mercy of their caregivers. Protecting animals during extreme weather is not restricted to domesticated pets. Those who have livestock on their properties must recognize that these animals will need various levels of care as well.
Animals such as chickens, cattle, goats, and llamas can be adversely affected by extreme weather. Individuals can heed these safety guidelines to avoid subjecting such animals to the stress, discomfort and illness that can result from exposure to extreme weather. Suitable Shelter One of the best ways to safeguard livestock from
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extreme weather is to ensure they have a place to escape the elements. Animals can get sunburned and may overheat, so make sure shelters can block the sun’s rays on hot days while also allowing for air to circulate through the dwelling. It’s also key that the shelter be capable of accommodating all of the animals at the same time. Livestock shelters do not have to be complicated. They can be as elaborate as a barn or as simple as carports or tarps and shade cloth. Fresh Water
Access to fresh, clean water is also essential. Dehydration can set in, particularly for animals with thick coats or those that are young or elderly. Animals tend to expend a lot of energy to cool down or stay warm, so they will need an ample supply of water to remain hydrated and healthy. Standing water can become a breeding ground for parasites and insect larvae. Therefore, change water frequently to make sure it is sanitary. Some farm experts advise aerating troughs to help prevent algae growth or mosquito infestations. A small
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amount of raw apple cider vinegar may help as well. However, always discuss water sanitation methods with a veterinarian before testing them out on farm animals. Mold-Free Feed Hot, humid temperatures can cause mold to grow on hay and other feed sources. Cows do not like to eat moldy hay and it can make horses ill. The University of Minnesota Extension says horses are particularly sensitive to dust from mold spores and can get a respiratory disease similar to asthma in humans called recurrent airway obstruction, or RAO, which is often referred to as heaves. Hay needs to be dried out before it is fed to animals. Any feed should be stored in cool, dry
conditions and inspected before being dispersed to livestock. Hair Cut Wooly animals may benefit from a shear prior to the onset of hot weather, advises the Maryland Small Ruminant group. Do not shear too short. For instance, a one-inch fleece can dissipate heat and help the sheep keep cool. Rest Livestock should not be worked and handled during the heat of the day. Their productivity levels may be diminished, and the extra exertion may affect their health. Rest will help them stay happy and healthy until the extreme weather has subsided.
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Page 42 • February 20, 2020 • Dodge County Pionier
Lomira National FFA Week February 22-29
Humane Housing For Safe And Comfortable Livestock Consumers depend on various agricultural producers to provide the fruits, vegetables and meat and dairy products they rely on for sustenance. The conditions in which livestock are sometimes housed and cared for is a cause of concern for many such consumers. However, farmers who understand that their livelihoods depend on the health of their animals often do their best to keep their livestock healthy and comfortable. Animal agriculture is evolving as animal scientists, veterinarians and farmers seek ways to provide for animal health and welfare. At the same time, farmers are seeking ways to minimize the negative impact these changes can have on employees and the environment. Indoor Housing Data published in 2016 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that indoor housing protects livestock from harsh external environments and serves to decrease exposure to parasites and diseases spread by insects, wildlife and other vectors. Although some are quick to say that outdoor living is better and indoor conditions can be unsanitary, many studies have proven the opposite. Increased prevalence of infectious
disease and parasites are well-known risks associated with outdoor housing of livestock, says the USDA. This has been proven by studying both indoor and outdoor chickens, as well as swine. Battery Cages Many people are concerned about the welfare of hens spending time in battery cages. These cages prevent hens from fighting with one another, but they also put the birds in very tight quarters. Battery cages were often coveted because their sloped floors allowed clean eggs to roll away into collection areas, making the process less labor-intensive. Farmers are trying to find a balance between keeping eggs clean and birds safe while providing humane living conditions without affecting the cost of eggs. In some areas, such as the European Union, battery cages are no longer in use. Egg-laying hens in Canada also may find battery cages a thing of the past thanks to the a new NFACC code for the care and handling of Canada’s hens. In addition, Publix, Wal-Mart, Costco, Denny’s, and more than 20 other major companies have stopped buying eggs from producers who use battery cages.
THE FARM IS THEIR CLASSROOM
Group Housing Veal production has long been a point of contention among animal welfare activists. The traditional option has been keep calves alone in “veal crates,” which are small and provide limited movement. Many veal farmers have slowly transitioned away from veal crates, says the organization Animal Smart. Group pens and indoor barns are climate-controlled and allow calves to stay together. Some farms even afford the calves some outdoor time for fresh air. Group housing is more social and less restrictive for the calves. According to the American Veal Association, veal farmers spent more than $50 million over 10 years to transition to these group housing systems. Calves can stand, stretch, lie down, groom themselves, and benefit from year-round ventilation to thrive. Furthermore, milk-fed calves raised for veal are raised until age 22 weeks, and marketed at 500 pounds, which is much older and larger than many people likely know, according to AVA. Great strides are being made to ensure that livestock are provided humane living conditions and environments to keep them comfortable and safe.
Lomira FFA Officer team working at the 2019 Freshman Orientation. The students explain what FFA is all about and they help answer questions that new students may have about high school. The team uses this time to display their goals and allows the parents to have a better understanding of what FFA is all about and how to be active in high school. (photo courtesy of Lomira FFA)
Explore A Career In Agriculture The agricultural industry provides a variety of opportunities to professionals interested in this often misunderstood field. According to the employment resource AGCareers.com, more than 250 career profiles are available to people interested in a career in agriculture. And while jobs in agriculture may not be as prevalent as they were a few centuries ago, when 72 percent of the workforce was employed in farm occupations in the United States, agriculture remains a booming industry that greatly affects the nation’s economy. Today, one in 12 American jobs is depends on agriculture, according to the career resource Payscale. The following are some potential professions for those considering careers in agriculture. • Agricultural business manager: This person oversees the business operations of a farm by providing organization and leadership during the production process. He or she contacts creditors, selects
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seeds, buys new equipment, and ensures the distribution of product. • Agricultural lawyer: Attorneys who specialize in agriculture deal with water and environmental issues, represent agricultural labor in disputes, ensure proper marketing techniques are followed, handle real estate and land use issues, and much more. • Animal control officer: These officers enforce local and regional laws that pertain to the treatment and care of animals. They patrol for distressed animals and ensure cruelty-free practices are adhered to. • Grain buyer: Grain buyers build relationships with producers so they can purchase grain for their particular companies. They negotiate purchase agreements, source grain supplies and issue purchase orders. • Poultry hatchery manager: Hatchery
managers oversee all of the aspects involved in poultry hatching. These can include management of personnel, handling and sorting of eggs, maintenance of equipment, coordination of pick-ups and deliveries, and overseeing quality control. • Soil scientist: Among the many tasks they might perform, scientists in the field of agriculture test soil samples for minerals and contaminants. By studying the soil, scientists can recommend which crops the land can support, how much livestock can feed in an area and the implications of agriculture on the area as it pertains to managing natural resources. A career in agriculture presents many exciting opportunities in a number of different applications. It’s a vast industry that utilizes professionals with an array of skillsets.
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Lomira
Dodge County Pionier • February 20, 2020 • Page 41
National FFA Week February 22-29
Lomira FFA members attended the 2019 State FFA convention in Madison. The members had the chance to participate in leadership workshops, speaking contests, pick up awards and participate in the choir. Members that attended the state convention were Mark Selzler, Paige Thomas, Lydia Thomas, Parker Litterick, Madelyn King, Emma Menzer, Autumn Schrauth, Ryan Falk and Katelyn King. (photo courtesy of Lomira FFA)
Lomira FFA members helping at the Midwestern Shooters Supply Fall Fest. The members are helping the Lomira FFA Alumni in preparing sandwiches at the event. The Lomira members are Sam and Olivia Narance, Riley Menzer, Dayne Zingsheim and Mark Selzler.
The Role Of Technology In Agriculture
Lomira FFA members helped the Brownsville Lions Club with a highway cleanup project on Hwy 49. The students were able to work with the Brownsville Lions on a community service project. Everyone had a great time and developed a new cooperative partnership. Helpers included Samantha Narance, Mike Kurth, Emma Menzer, Katelyn King, Riley Menzer, Mark Selzler and Paige Thomas. (photo courtesy of Lomira FFA)
Modern industry is driven by technology. Advancements in technology have changed how business is conducted, with some industries undergoing dramatic changes since the dawn of the 21st century. While agriculture might not be the first industry people think of when reflecting on the changing nature of industry, The National Institute of Food and Agriculture notes that modern farms are vastly different than those from a few decades ago. Farmers have long relied on technology to make their operations as efficient, productive and profitable as possible.
Precision agriculture, which refers to technological advances designed to propel agriculture into the modern, computerized and information-based world, is helping the agricultural sector become more profitable and efficient while also improving safety and making agriculture more eco-friendly. In addition, the NIFA notes that the modern agricultural industry employs technology such as robots, temperature and moisture sensors, aerial images, and global positioning systems. If it sounds complicated, that’s because it is. For example, modern sensors can detect soil
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Farmiin Fa ng
conditions, potentially producing hundreds of readings per second. These sensors help farmers know the best possible time to plant seeds so they can reach their full potential. That improves both the efficiency of modern farms as well as their output. The NIFA also notes that agricultural technology has reduced waste. For instance, thanks to agricultural technology, farmers no longer have to apply water, fertilizers and pesticides uniformly across entire fields. Technology has shown that farmers can simply target specific areas or even treat individual plants differently. That saves time and allows farmers to use only minimal quantities of water, fertilizer and pesticides. In addition, according to the NIFA, employing agricultural technology in this fashion leads to higher crop productivity and reduces runoff of chemicals into rivers and groundwater, thereby reducing the farm’s impact on local ecosystems. Modern farms are technological marvels where various technologies are being employed to produce crops more efficiently and safely than ever before.
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Page 40 • February 20, 2020 • Dodge County Pionier
Lomira National FFA Week February 22-29
Pictured is the entire group of FFA members in Lomira for the 2019-20 school year (photo courtesy of Gueller’s Photography)
Maintenance Key To Functioning Farms The family automobile is not the only piece of equipment that requires routine upkeep to ensure it is operating properly. Life on a farm can come to a screeching halt if farm equipment is not properly maintained. Farmers invest hundreds of thousands of dollars on agricultural equipment, such as tractors, tillers, hoppers, and dozers. Adhering to maintenance schedules can prevent breakdowns and decrease the need for potentially costly emergency repairs.
Keep It Clean Cleaning the surface of equipment can go a long way toward keeping it operating smoothly. Use a pressure washer to remove caked-on mud and other debris. Titan iron suppliers recommend quickly washing equipment after usage so that substances do not have the chance to harden.
Learn The Equipment Over time, it is possible to employ your senses of sight, sound
and even smell to determine if equipment is working properly. Familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual so you can troubleshoot minor problems. Any unusual sounds, odors or responses from the gear should be noted.
Routine Maintenance Checks Routinely inspect hoses, fittings, and seals to ensure they are in good working condition. Be sure fluids, such as coolant and oil, are at
the proper levels. Check and replace filters as needed. Tires need to be properly inflated, and inspect the battery for corrosion or other signs that it may need to be replaced. Check belts for cracks. Tour the exterior of the equipment looking at signals and lights to ensure they are in proper working order. Hardware should be tightened and any missing pieces replaced. Heavy farm equipment needs motor oil, hydraulic oil and filters changed more frequently than automo-
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Thanking Our Local FFA Chapter For Training Tomorrow’s Leaders
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biles. Such equipment also may need more frequent lubrication of chains and cables. Always check and inspect equipment prior to jobs requiring heavy and extended usage.
Expect Some Welding Have a knowledgeable welder on call to make repairs as needed, or develop your skills to a point where you feel comfortable making your own spot repairs. The experts at Miller, producers of
welding equipment, say cleaning the surface area and removing any paint, oil or corrosion from the metal area that needs repairing can make for smooth, durable welds. Multiprocess welding generators and accessories can ensure the right welds for repairs in the field or in the shop. Maintenance on farm equipment helps keep operations running along and protects expensive investments.