FEBRUARY 2021 UMASH regularly emphasizes that agriculture is one of the most dangerous occupations in the US, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Farmers are at very high risk for fatal and nonfatal injuries; and farming is one of the few industries in which family members (who often share the work and live on the …

JANUARY 2021 Have you ever been told…”that’s my advice, take it or leave it.”? Many of us have sought advice from a trusted person – maybe a teacher, a relative or a good friend. Or maybe we are the person who has given advice to someone in need. Either way, we want to make sure we are getting or giving the best information or advice as …

JANUARY 2021 An active imagination, paired with a One Health approach, may prevent future pandemics. UMASH’s programs and projects prioritize a One Health approach. This approach creates an intertwining web linking together humans, the environment, and animals. When we alter one, we alter all. UMASH Director Jeff Bender was recently featured in …

JANUARY 2021 “We wanted to do good with our platform,” said Minnesota Millennial Farmer, Zach Johnson, after he and his wife raised $60,000 to prevent grain bin incidents. The Upper Midwest has been a hotspot for tragic grain and silo incidents in recent years. Several incidents kept the topic top of mind for the farm vlogger. Johnson has recently …

JANUARY 2021 Farming is a dangerous and physically demanding job no matter your gender or body type. Even though women are very capable of running farming equipment, they find themselves at a disadvantage when it comes to these tools. Built with a taller, stronger male farmer in mind, most farming equipment presents a higher risk of injury for women. …

DECEMBER 2020 A productive and positive work environment is integral to the success of any operation, and understanding how to achieve that is just as important. Luckily there are many resources to help develop the skill sets needed to coach effectively and cultivate a prosperous work environment. Tracey Erickson, a Dairy Field Specialist at the South …

NOVEMBER 2020 As we wrap up harvest, plans are being made for 2021. While we do not hope for any disasters, now is the time to plan for one. Shay Foulk is an agronomist, agricultural business and safety consultant, and seed producer in Sparland, IL. He has worked with farmers and agri-businesses to develop and implement safety emergency response plans, …