Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is reminding Iowans, particularly farmers and drivers, to prioritize safety and mental health as the fall harvest season begins. His message coincides with National Farm Safety and Health Week, which runs Sept. 21–27. Naig says, “As the busy 2025 harvest season gets underway, I’m urging all Iowans to make safety their top priority. Equipment and machinery will be out in force in the fields and on roadways around the clock. Please slow down, exercise patience, and offer one another some grace to ensure everyone has a safe and productive harvest season.” Safety is not the only concern, as harvest hours can be grueling, with many Iowans spending long hours in the cab of the combine or grain truck. Naig says, “It’s also important to acknowledge that the long, stressful workdays and economic challenges facing agriculture can take a toll. I encourage farmers and ag workers to be mindful of their mental health and well-being, and to watch out for their neighbors, too. No one needs to feel alone. There are resources readily available for Iowans.” The Iowa Concern Hotline at 1-800-447-1985, Your Life Iowa via 855-581-8111, and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are available for those needing support. Links to these and other resources are included below.
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Stress on the Farm | Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Health and Human Sciences
National Education Center for Agricultural Safety
