Safety First / Harvest Buckets to be delivered in Keokuk County

SIGOURNEY — Back in 2022, Keokuk County Extension and Outreach set out to find a meaningful way to show our local farmers just how much they're appreciated. That’s when the idea for Safety First—Harvest Buckets was born. Now entering our fourth year, this heartfelt tradition continues as we gear up to deliver these special buckets to our hardworking county farmers during harvest season. Through unpredictable weather and countless challenges, Keokuk County farmers press on with determination—and often, a smile.

“The ultimate goal for these buckets is to bring awareness to stress and farm safety during the harvest season. In addition to the items mentioned, we also include educational information on how to handle stress during the farming seasons and mental health guidance,” said Kelly Albert, Keokuk County Extension and Outreach County Director.

Our Safety First—Harvest Buckets are packed with all the essentials and thoughtful goodies a farmer might need (and want!) during the busy harvest season. To make the delivery extra special, our local Keokuk County 4-H’ers will be hand-delivering the buckets to area farmers the week of October 5.

Due to the growing popularity of this program, we’ve decided to limit nominations to 200 farmers this year—so we can ensure each bucket is packed with care and quality.

Do you know a Keokuk County farmer and think they deserve to smile during this harvest season? The first 200 nominated farmers will receive a Safety First Harvest Bucket! Sign up deadline is Sept. 30 or when we hit 200 nominations so sign up soon!

If you would like to nominate a Keokuk County farmer, you can submit the nomination online here https://form.jotform.com/252174365568162 or call 641-622-2680, or email xkeokuk@iastate.edu.

If you would like to contribute to the buckets, contact our office at 641-622-2680 or email xkeokuk@iastate.edu.

For more information about ISU Extension and Outreach, visit www.extension.iastate.edu or contact the ISU Extension and Outreach Keokuk County office.