Be Cautious with Slow Moving Vehicle Traffic

SOUTHWEST, NEW YORK (August 23rd, 2024): Farmers have worked tirelessly this summer to plant and grow the food that we all enjoy while sustainably using the natural resources that make our region’s picturesque landscape remarkable. As a result, you’ve likely found your commute slowed down by a Slow-Moving Vehicle (SMV) this summer including tractors hauling key farming implements, construction equipment traveling to their next job, and animal drawn vehicles. With summer beginning to fade into fall, corn silage harvest is about to begin for many farms to feed livestock for the winter. This harvest results in increased SMV traffic on the road, making it a good time to think about how to share the road to keep everyone safe.

Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock, and Field Crops Team work with agricultural producers who use a wide variety of SMV’s to operative their farms. We’d like to offer a few key reminders as you travel:

Slow Down. When approaching slow-moving vehicles, reduce your speed to match theirs. Take a moment to enjoy the picturesque landscape around you!

Follow at a distance. Keep in mind that some SMV operators may have poor visibility because of the equipment they are towing and may not be able to see you.

Pass with care. SMV’s often turn into hidden field driveways or unexpected places. Pass with caution and only when it’s safe to do so. Expect unanticipated movements like equipment turning into driveways or the swaying of towed equipment.

Be vigilant! Keep your eyes on the road and look out for SMV’s.

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SWNYDLFC is a partnership between Cornell University and the CCE Associations of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, and Steuben counties. Their team includes Katelyn Walley, Farm Business Management (716-640-0522); Katelyn Miller, Field Crops and Forage Management (716-640-2047); and Amy Barkley, Livestock Management (716-640-0844). CCE is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities.

For more information about Cornell Cooperative Extension, contact your county’s Association Executive Director. Allegany County – Laura Hunsberger, lkh47@cornell.edu or 585-268-7644. Cattaraugus County – Kelly McDonald, kmm525@cornell.edu or 716-699-2377. Chautauqua County – Emily Reynolds, eck47@cornell.edu or 716-664-9502. Erie County – Diane Held, dbh24@cornell.edu or 716-652-5400. Steuben County – Tess McKinley, tsm223@cornell.edu, or 607-664-2301.

Last updated August 23, 2024