NDSU Youth Honored for Farm Safety Efforts

Friday, October 10, 2025

North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension is celebrating young participants of the 2025 Farm Safety Camps for their efforts to promote safe practices on farms and ranches.

The recognition coincides with National Farm Safety and Health Week, held annually each September, highlighting the importance of safety awareness in rural communities.

Fifteen youth from across North Dakota and neighboring states participated in the Slow-Moving Vehicle (SMV) Sign Challenge, a hands-on activity aimed at preventing roadway crashes involving farm equipment.

Participants received new SMV signs donated by Bobcat, Extension’s partner for the program, and were challenged to install them on unmarked farm equipment that regularly travels on public roads.

Many pieces of farm machinery still operate without visible or functioning SMV emblems, increasing the risk of accidents. By replacing faded or missing signs, participants helped make roadways safer for both motorists and farmers.

After completing their installations, participants submitted before-and-after photos for judging by Bobcat’s product safety and compliance team.

The top four winners were:

First place: Lane Petrick, Grant County, ND
Second place: Reese Eggert, Becker County, MN
Third place: Ryan Steger, Richland County, ND
Fourth place: Carter Roth, Grant County, ND

According to Angie Johnson, NDSU Extension farm and ranch safety specialist, the challenge encouraged lifelong safety habits. “Farm safety is a team sport requiring everyone to play their part,” she said.

Bobcat’s Amelia Doll added that teaching youth proper equipment safety helps create positive change on farms and in local communities.

During harvest season, NDSU Extension reminds all farmers and ranchers to inspect and replace any worn or missing slow-moving vehicle signs before taking equipment on public roads.

For more information, visit ndsu.ag/roadsafety or contact your local NDSU Extension office.

Photo Credit: north-dakota-state-university