MOUNT VERNON — County Executive Director for Knox County Farm Service Agency Katie Thobe reminds Knox County farmers to remember the phrase, “Call Before You Haul.”
Area farmers are reminded to call before they haul or move any grain on loan. If grain on government loan has been disposed of through feeding, selling or any other form of disposal without prior written authorization from the county office staff, it is considered unauthorized disposition. The financial penalties for unauthorized dispositions are severe. Additionally, producer could be subject to criminal prosecution under federal law. Remember to call before hauling, feeding or moving grain under loan.
Current commodity loan rates are 1.25 percent. Visit the Knox County FSA office to sign up or learn more about the loan program.
USDA currently has several options to help operations with on farm storage. It offers farm storage facility loans on seven-, 10- or 12-year terms ranging from 2.75 to 3.625 percent. Inquire at the Knox County FSA office for additional information about farm storage facility loans for storage options.
FSA wants all farmers to have a productive crop year, and that begins with putting safety first.
Flowing grain in a storage bin or gravity-flow wagon is like quicksand, it can kill quickly. It takes less than five seconds for a person caught in flowing grain to be trapped.
The mechanical aspects of grain handling equipment, also presents a real danger. Augers, power takeoffs, and other moving parts can grab people or clothing.
These hazards, along with pinch points and missing shields, are dangerous enough for adults; not to mention children. It is always advisable to keep children a safe distance from operating farm equipment. Always use extra caution when backing or maneuvering farm machinery. Ensure everyone is visibly clear and accounted for before machinery is engaged.
