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Registration for the nine-week course is available online and runs through Jan. 13.

January 6, 2020

2 Min Read
Tractor preparation the stubble field
TRACTOR OPERATION: This nine-week course includes educational sessions, some driving practice, final written and driving tests, and a graduation program. fotokostic/getty

Michigan State University Extension will offer the 4-H Tractor Operator Program beginning Jan. 25.

Successful completion of 4-H TOP provides a certificate of training required for the operation of a 20 PTO horsepower or greater garden or agricultural tractor by 14- and 15-year-old youths employed on property not owned, leased or operated by a parent or legal guardian. Certification also is used by youths who exhibit and participate in local contests, parades and festival activities.

The nine-week course will be taught from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday mornings, Jan. 25 to March 28. This schedule includes educational sessions, some driving practice, final written and driving tests, and a graduation program.

Participants will need some study time for out-of-class assignments to reach the 24 hours of required training to be certified. Participants must be 14 years old by the date of the driving test to be eligible for certification.

Educational topics include farm and ranch hazards and safety, tractor component basics, preoperational procedures, operation basics, tractor-powered implements, self-propelled agricultural equipment, operating on public roads, basic maintenance and repair, ATV and utility vehicle safety, first aid, and emergencies. The program will meet at Countryside Academy, 4800 Meadowbrook Road, Benton Harbor, Mich.

Registration runs through Jan. 13 and is done online at events.anr.msu.edu. The cost is $60 per 4-H member and $80 per non-4-H member. The program must have at least six participants registered to be held, with a maximum of 20.

For more than 40 years, 4-H TOP has been preparing youths for the workforce, along with teaching young people safety, confidence and responsibility. If you have questions about 4-H TOP, contact the MSU Extension Office in Berrien County at 269-927-5674.

People with disabilities may request accommodations by calling the Berrien County MSU Extension Office at 269-927-5674 by Jan. 10, to ensure sufficient time to make arrangements. Requests received after this date will be met when possible.

MSU is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.

Source: MSU Extension, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.

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