Photo: County of Grande Prairie

By Emily Keller

COUNTY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE

County of Grande Prairie reminds motorists of slow-moving farm equipment on roads

Sep 2, 2019 | 7:00 AM

It is now that time of year when slow-moving farm vehicles and equipment will be on the roads of the County of Grande Prairie.

Sonja Raven, the Agricultural Fieldman for the County of Grande Prairie, says this year’s large amounts of rain have delayed the harvest.

“Some of the hay is down, we’re just praying that it stays dry-ish and we can get that up. The rest of the crops, they’ll be coming along real soon, the canola in some spots looks amazing, and then in other spots where the water has pooled, a lot of the crops are drowned out. So, I think it’s going to be pretty variable.”

Motorists are reminded to stay back at least 15 metres, to be alert, slow down and be patient before passing, as Raven says the farming equipment has the right of way.

“If its safe to pass and the road markings indicate that it is safe to pass and you have sufficient room and clearance, then you can certainly pass them, but there’s not much point in tailgating them or crowding them or passing against the road rules because you won’t be in the right.”

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She also reminds people that in many cases, motorists are not visible to the farming vehicles and it is important to exercise precautions.

“If they can move over, they usually will if they can see you, which in many cases, especially with some of the larger equipment, it’s very difficult to see what’s behind them or sometimes even what’s beside them,” said Raven. “So, be very very careful because you might think you’re visible but point of fact you might not be.”

“Slow down, have some patience, give these people some room. They’re just trying to get their job done and put some food on all of our tables.”