AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians Host National Workshop

Photo of Maurer

Maurer using a milking track

The AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians project will host the 2001 National AgrAbility Training Workshop, October 9-12 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. This workshop provides state AgrAbility project staff members, farmers and farm family members with disabilities, occupational or rehabilitation professionals, extension educators and other professionals the opportunity to learn more about accommodating individuals who have disabilities in production agriculture.

A feature of the workshop will be a visit to Richard Maurer's farm. Maurer is a client of the AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians. Maurer, age 60, owns and operates a dairy farm in Newport, PA. At age 56, Maurer sustained two strokes, which affected his right side and decreased his mobility. After 45 years of milking cows Maurer had no intentions of changing his occupation or to retire.

Due to the technical assistance of AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians staff, services through the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the support of Maurer's family, Maurer's farm is equipped with various modifications and equipment to help him stay in agriculture.

Photo of quick hitch

Quick hitch attach hitch systems on Maurer's equipment.

During the National workshop visit to the farm, attendees will see first hand the modifications that allow Maurer to stay in production agriculture. These modifications include:

updating milking system with a track system and automatic releases on milking machines;
adding additional steps and hand holds to tractors;
addition of quick attach hitches; and
improving mobility around the farm with a John Deer Gator and golf cart.

For complete conference information