Harvest season is underway across the state of Kentucky, and Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles is reminding folks to stay safe and alert while farmers are at work.
Everyone has found themselves behind slow moving farm equipment this time of year, and Quarles say he knows that can be frustrating but patience really is a virtue to make sure both you and those farmers make it home safely.
With conditions particularly dry this year thanks to the ongoing drought, he says the risk of field fires is increased, so he asks that people delay any burning until its safer to do so.
Several counties already have a burn ban in place, including Hopkins County—and although Christian County does not currently have a ban in place, it is currently wildfire season in the state. That means between October 1 until December 15 there are burning restrictions in place, including not burning anything between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Commissioner Quarles says farming can be hazardous, and his department is working to put out more resources on how to stay safe, not just physically but also mentally.
Quarles urges anyone, not just those in agriculture, to not let stigma keep you from reaching out to those resources if you need help. You can learn more on the Kentucky Department of Agriculture website.