4-H tractor program sign-up begins Feb. 21

Middletown — The 2007 Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Tractor Program is open to any youth, 14 years old and above, who wants to receive certification to work on a farm this summer or is looking for a fun, educational experience. The U.S. Department of Labor declares certain farm occupations too “hazardous” for youth below the age of 16. Tractor driving is included on this list, and these youth are prohibited from working on any farm but their home farm. An exemption is permitted for youth under 16 (but over 14) if they have successfully completed a basic Tractor Safety Course. Participants are expected to attend five meetings at local tractor dealers and be tested. Meetings are scheduled for Wednesdays, from 7 - 8:30 p.m., starting Feb. 28 (Chambers Ford, Montgomery); March 14 (Hudson River Tractor Company, Goshen), March 21 and 28 (Pine Bush Equipment) and April 11 (Cooperative Extension Office, Middletown). In addition, there will be driving and skill practice on Saturday, April 14 with testing on Saturday, April 21. Sign-up is due by Feb. 21, and can be done by calling the 4-H Office at 344-1234. The registration fee is $8 for 4-H members, $13 for non-members.