‘Take a Break’ Bags earn state recognition

WASHINGTON — Receiving the 2025 Outstanding Youth Grant Award from the Iowa Center for Agricultural Safety and Health not only gave Washington County 4-H statewide recognition, but also a jump-start for the 2026 season of the longtime “Stay Safe, Take a Break,” project.

“Every year I-CASH has funds available for small grants to community youth groups for farm safety-related projects,” the I-CASH website states. “ In addition, I-CASH awards an Outstanding Youth Grant Award, and the winners are invited to the annual Midwest Rural Agricultural Safety and Health Conference to present their project.”

  Buy Photo

This year, Washington County 4-H County Council members Reese Conrad and Brynn Conrad joined Extension staff member Holly Beinhart at the awards luncheon and presented an overview of the 2025 project.

I-CASH called Washington County 4-H’s work on the "Stay Safe, Take a Break" project to “very impressive” and stated they “look forward to seeing what the future brings for their project.”

This project, which has been active in Washington County for a number of years, is made possible through donations from local businesses and grants like the $500 received from I-CASH.

With money and donations made, Washington County Iowa State Extension and 4-H volunteers assemble bags filled with simple safety items, educational materials and healthy snacks, then deliver them to farmers in their fields. The goal is to encourage farmers to pause during demanding harvest days, check fatigue levels, stay hydrated and take brief breaks — small steps that help prevent injuries and promote safe decision-making.

  Buy Photo

The contents of the bags evolve each year based on feedback from farmers and local emergency personnel. In 2024, organizers included tourniquets along with QR-linked instructions on how to apply them correctly, reflecting increased emphasis on readiness for farm-related injuries. They also added more protein-rich snacks after hearing from farmers who often work through meals during peak harvest.

Extension staff emphasized that good nutrition helps operators stay alert, which protects not only their own safety but also the safety of families, co-workers and motorists who share the road with large farm equipment.

“Stay Safe, Take a Break,” is a community-wide project involving volunteers, local partners and supporters who recognize the importance of farm safety. With that assistance, Washington County 4-H and extension plans to continue offering the bags for years to come and welcome additional sponsors who want to support the project. Interested individuals or businesses may contact the Washington County Extension office for more information.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com