As local farmers use public roads to bring in the fall harvest, drivers are reminded to stay vigilant and share the road with slow-moving farm vehicles

CORDOVA, Md., Sept. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With Maryland's fall harvest season quickly approaching, farm equipment is once again sharing the roads with local drivers. The Maryland Soybean Board and its "Find Me Driving" public awareness campaign are urging all motorists to exercise caution and patience as slow-moving farm vehicles can operate along public roads during this demanding time for farmers.

"Harvest season is a very busy time for farmers, and moving equipment between fields is a necessary part of the job," said Belinda Burrier, a farmer from Union Bridge. "We understand it can be frustrating to encounter slow-moving vehicles, but a little patience and caution can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe on the road."

Farm equipment, designed for agricultural use, travels at speeds of 25 mph or less on public roads. Motorists are encouraged to look for the slow-moving vehicle triangular sign on the back of the vehicle, slow down, give them ample space, and pass only when it is safe and legally permissible. According to Find Me Driving, road safety in farming areas depends on mutual awareness and a commitment to sharing the road.

"During the fall harvest season, slow-moving vehicles are a necessary part of our farming communities," said Danielle Bauer, Executive Director of the Maryland Soybean Board. "The Find Me Driving campaign with its loveable mascot SAM® is here to remind motorists that with more awareness and preparation, we can reduce crashes and ensure both farmers and drivers arrive safely at their destinations."

The campaign's mascot, SAM®, is a cartoon slow-moving vehicle sign that is an acronym for these safety tips: Slow down. Assess your surroundings. Move with caution.

With more than 12,600 farms across the state, Maryland's agricultural industry contributes over $8 billion annually to the state's economy, with soybeans accounting for over $270 million in production value.

For more information on farm equipment road safety during fall harvest time, visit FindMeDriving.com or follow Find Me Driving on social platforms.

About Maryland Soybean Board: The Maryland Soybean Board is funded by the national soybean checkoff program, which assesses one-half of one percent of the net market value of soybeans at the first point of sale. The board consists of 10 volunteer farmer-directors and directs funds for research, marketing and education programs to benefit the Maryland soybean industry. For more information, visit mdsoy.org.

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SOURCE Maryland Soybean Board