Farming accidents on the rise

Agriculture is a hazardous industry that is often not recognized as such. The frequency and severity of agricultural injuries are not well documented because injuries to self-employed farmers are not often reported to local and national agricultural agencies. Injuries result in significant economic losses to farm and ranch operators, their family members, workers and society.

Curtis and Pennie Schiermeyer, of rural Nelson, have directly experienced the devastating impact a farming accident has had on their family. On Oct. 22, 2024, at 2 p.m. Curtis and his family planned on working cattle. The cattle were corralled and ran into a hydraulic chute one at a time. The chute was then clamped down on the animal so they could vaccinate. The chute was released so the animal could exit and enter into another pen. Each member of the family had a specific job to do in this process. They had already processed several head when Curtis accidentally placed his hand in a place that it shouldn't have been. When the chute was opened up so the animal could exit, it came down on Curtis's left hand and smashed it. "I've done this a million times and never placed my hand there before." Curtis's hand was broken in several places. One bone in his hand was broken in two places, and another bone eventually required surgery.

Because of the swelling in his hand, a cast couldn't be put on until two weeks after the accident. At the next checkup with the doctor, X-rays were taken. This revealed one of the bones had moved and wasn't healing properly. A surgery was scheduled on Dec. 6. At that time a pin was placed on the bone to secure it so it could heal properly. Since then Curtis has been receiving physical therapy in Geneva, and will continue to do so until his hand has healed. The doctor estimated it will take 6 to 9 months to heal from this injury.

Curtis said he's thankful for the help of family and friends in the community. His wife helped him with daily living tasks and his grandson helped with all the farming responsibilities. Neighbors and friends helped out with the farming duties also. "I'm very thankful for everyone's help."

Farming and ranching remains one of the most important, yet unpredictable and dangerous lines of work. Farmers are more susceptible to various injuries, both life-threatening and nonlife threatening. More than 11,800 nonfatal agricultural-related injuries are reported each year, with many other incidents going unreported.