Farm equipment has been rolling steadily across the region this month as area producers push through soybean harvest and prepare to begin corn harvest in the weeks ahead. The busy harvest season coincides with another South Dakota tradition, the opening of pheasant season on Saturday, Oct. 18.
Local officials remind hunters, out-of-town visitors and residents alike to use extra caution and patience when traveling rural roads during this busy time of year.
“The long hours and the race to beat the weather often mean that both farmers and motorists find themselves sharing rural roads more than usual and sometimes in less-than-ideal conditions,” said Jerauld County Sheriff Jason Weber. “The combination of slow-moving, oversized machinery, dusty gravel roads, narrow shoulders, and early morning or evening travel can create serious hazards for everyone on the road.”
Weber offered a reminder to motorists: “One of the things to always remember when traveling on rural roads is to give machinery plenty of room and do not pass at an intersection. I’ve responded to many accidents where a tractor was traveling at a slow speed with intentions of turning and then the passing car causes a collision.”
Both farmers and motorists, including visiting hunters, can feel the pressure to reach their destinations quickly. Sheriff Weber urges everyone to take a few extra moments for safety.
“Plan on longer travel times and be patient while getting to your destination. A few extra minutes of caution can prevent a tragedy.”