Safety Of Hauling Agriculture Topic Of New Class Thursday

Local farmers can learn more about agriculture transpiration safety during a Thursday class.

The class is part of Overton County Ag Extension Agent Jason Garrett’s Master Beef Producer Class. Garrett said the seminars cover a broad range of agricultural topics. He said the Ag transportation safety class has never been taught in the county before.

“Me and some more Ag agents went to some in-service training last fall and this was one of the topics that they talked about,” Garrett said. “So, I thought this was a good idea to bring it right back to Overton County.”

Garrett said transportation is an essential part of agriculture and safety should be a priority. The class will be held Thursday at 5:30pm.

“If you’re a beef producer and let’s say you got 30 animals, and it’s time to sale,” Garrett said. “They have to be moved whether your doing it yourself or hiring someone to come do it. Maybe you have to run one to the vet. You know, they’re moving live stock all the time. Also, with beef farmers, you’re equipment, tractors, hay, a lot of hay is taken up.”

Garrett said the class will also discuss the various laws that govern hauling trailers.

“From the truck to the trailer, we’re going to go over little reminders that people need to know,” Garrett said. “What type of tags do you need on your truck and your trailer? What’s the weight laws? What’s the truck you’re pulling this with? What does it need to be legal and safe?”

Garrett said a Tennessee Highway Patrolman will be helping him teach the course. Garrett said they are working together to try and leave no stone unturned when it comes to ag safety.

“Anything we can think of to remind or educate a new beef producers on transportation of live stock and equipment, the laws and just basic overall safety,” Garrett said.

Garrett said the Master Beef Producer Class covers a wide variety of topics including cattle handling, budgeting, health, reproduction and more.