In recognition of National Farm Safety and Health Week, September 21-27, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is announcing that farmers can apply for funding through two key safety programs. The Grain Storage Facility Safety Grant and the Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) Rebate programs help farmers add critical safety equipment to on-farm grain storage facilities and retrofit older tractors with lifesaving rollover protection.
“The risks grain farmers face every day are very real,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. “The Grain Storage Facility Safety Grant helps farmers make critical upgrades that protect themselves, their families, and their employees. Taking steps now to improve the safety of corn, soybean, and small grain storage facilities is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents and save lives.”
Examples of eligible safety equipment include, but are not limited to:
- Fall protection systems;
- Engineering controls that prevent contact with an auger or other moving parts;
- Dust collection systems that minimize explosion hazards;
- Personal protective equipment that increases the likelihood of surviving a grain-bin-related emergency;
- Grain silo air quality monitoring equipment;
- Other grain storage facility safety equipment with prior approval from the MDA.
The program reimburses up to 75% of the cost to purchase and install eligible safety equipment for on-farm grain bins or silos. Applicants are eligible to receive up to $400 per bin or silo, with a limit of $2,400 per farm per year. Grant funding comes from a legislative appropriation of $75,000 for both the Grain Storage Facility Safety Grant and the Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) Rebate programs.
The ROPS program helps farmers retrofit older tractors with rollover protection equipment. Tractor rollovers remain one of the leading causes of preventable farm fatalities. Rollover protective structures combined with a seatbelt are 99% effective in preventing death or serious injury.
The MDA is accepting grant applications for both programs through June 30, 2027, or until all funds are exhausted. Funds will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information and to apply, visit the MDA’s Grain Storage Facility Safety Grant and Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) Rebate Program webpages.
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Media Contact
Nikki Warner, MDA Communications
651-238-7909
Nikki.Warner@state.mn.us
