Why Is This Tractor So Slow?

BE CAUTIOUS WITH SLOW MOVING VEHICLE TRAFFIC THIS SUMMER

Cornell Cooperative Extension reminds you to be cautious with slow-moving vehicle traffic this summer

JAMESTOWN, NEW YORK (June 14, 2023) – As farmers work hard to plant and grow the food that we all enjoy, and sustainably use the natural resources that make our region’s picturesque landscape remarkable, you might find that your commute is slowed down by a Slow-Moving Vehicle (SMV). It’s the peak time of year for slow-moving vehicle traffic. This can include tractors hauling key farming implements, construction equipment traveling to their next job, and animal drawn vehicles. With increased traffic on the roads, it’s a good time to think about how to share the road to keep everyone safe this season.

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

Slow Down. When approaching slow-moving vehicles, reduce your speed to match theirs. Enjoy the scenery around you and take the moment to roll down your windows and enjoy the country air!

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 will often turn into hidden field driveways or unexpected places. Pass with caution and only when you’re safe to do so. Expect unanticipated movements like equipment turning into driveways, or the swaying of towed equipment and animal drawn vehicles.

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

For more information about slow-moving vehicles and the slow-moving vehicle emblem, please visit SafeNY.ny.gov.

SWNYDLFC is a partnership between Cornell University and the CCE Associations of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, and Steuben counties. Their team includes Katelyn Walley-Stoll, Farm Business Management (716-640-0522); Amy Barkley, Livestock Management (716-640-0844); Camila Lage, Dairy Management (607-422-6788), and Katelyn Miller, Field Crop Management (716-640-2047). 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 – Jocelyn Sikorski, jas884@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 June 20, 2023