The goal of AgriSafe-NC is to improve the safety and health of North Carolina’s farmers and their families using a community based program that includes 1) clinical health exams by a specially trained health professional that checks for general wellness and specific occupational health conditions; 2) an educational program for farmers that targets occupational health and wellness information tailored to the specific farm operation; 3) assistance in the selection, fit, and use of personal protective equipment to prevent agricultural occupational illness or injuries; and 4) family advocacy services to assist farmers and their families with issues such as insurance coverage, caring for aging family members, and stress associated with farming operations. Services are provided in both clinic and community settings on a flexible schedule in order to be as accessible to farmers and their families as possible.

The AgriSafe program was founded in Iowa in 1987 and has become a national model for safeguarding farmers and their families with locations now in 16 States, including in North Carolina (NC) at a successful pilot site recently established in Johnston County. The NC site was made possible with funds for one year in the amount of $100,000 from the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust. Additional funding has been provided by the Rural Economic Development Center and the North Carolina Agricultural Consortium.

The NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission is providing expansion funds for AgriSafe-NC and its compliment program Certified Safe Farm-NC. Certified Safe Farm will add an on farm safety checklist component to the agricultural occupational health and safety services already being provided by AgriSafe-NC.

New Article!
North Carolina growers get health care boost.
"The commission is proud to be a partner on this project, and we're excited to see how smarter and healthier lifestyles, in addition to safer farms, will benefit our farmers in many ways..."