Minnesota Farmers Urged To Use Caution As Harvest Wraps Up

There are a lot of signs that Minnesotans are gearing up for the change in seasons; boats are being put away, if they haven’t been already, the leaves are starting to turn and harvest season is wrapping up.  

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is reminding farmers to be safe instead of quick in the handling fall fertilizer applications.  

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Anhydrous Ammonia or NH3 can cause someone who comes in contact with it to become very sick or worse, it can be fatal. Farmers, dealers and custom applicators are strongly urged to use caution. 

Bleeding Transfer Lines 

One of the most important precautions that can be taken is by wearing goggles and gloves and keeping at least five gallons of clean emergency water within reach. And again, maybe the most important thing is taking your time and not being in a hurry. 

Another word of caution is that transfer lines can contain residual ammonia, you should stand upwind while transferring or bleeding lines to reduce risk to a minimum. The Department of Agriculture urges you to keep your equipment downwind and make sure that there is no one or animals in that direction, or homes for that matter. 

Storing and Transporting 

Caution doesn’t stop with bleeding the lines, the same kind of care needs to be taken when you are transporting and storing as well. Here are some key pieces of advice that the Department of Agriculture offer: 

• Never assume your NH3 lines are empty 

• Wear protective gear when working with the tanks or transporting units 

• Make sure there’s at least 150 gallons of safe water in an open top container. Or have a shower, plumbed eye wash and a five-gallon container of clean water with every tank 

• Obey the transport speed limit laws, do not exceed 30 miles per hour. Make sure your vehicle properly displays the proper safety emblems that are seen from the rear. Also secure the tanks with two independent chains on top of the hitch pin and clip. 

If something does go wrong, do not hesitate to call 9-1-1, but then also contact the Minnesota Duty Officer at 1-800-422-0798. Take these steps seriously and be safe out there.