by JONAEL BOSQUES, UF/IFAS
WAUCHULA, Fla. — The UF/IFAS Extension offices of DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, and Manatee counties are proud to announce the 2026 Ag Safety Day, scheduled for Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at the Hardee County Agri-Civic Center. This comprehensive training event is designed to provide essential safety education and health resources for agricultural workers, producers, and managers across the four-county region.
Agriculture remains one of the most vital—and hazardous—industries in Florida. The 2026 Ag Safety Day aims to mitigate workplace risks by offering expert-led training in both English and Spanish. The program covers critical topics including Worker Protection Standards (WPS), heat stress prevention, tractor safety, and first responder emergency training.
“Safety is a collective responsibility that impacts the productivity and well-being of our entire agricultural community,” said [Insert Name/Representative], [Title] at UF/IFAS Extension. “By bringing together resources from four counties, we are able to provide a high-caliber training environment that includes not only technical safety skills but also a dedicated health fair for our participants.”
Event Highlights Include:
- Safety Training: Sessions on Tractor Safety, Pesticide Exposure and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and understanding pesticide labels (REI/AEZ).
- CEU Opportunities: Licensed pesticide applicators can earn up to four Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in categories including General Standards – CORE, Private Applicator, Ag Row Crop, and Ag Tree Crop.
- Health Fair: On-site services will include blood pressure screenings, vaccinations, dental assessments, and general health education.
- Full Hospitality: Registration includes a catered breakfast and lunch for all attendees.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
- Time: 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM EDT
- Location: Hardee County Agri-Civic Center, 515 Civic Center Drive, Wauchula, FL 33873
- Cost: $15.00 per person (plus Eventbrite fees if paying online)
Registration Information: Participants are required to pre-register. Tickets can be purchased online via Eventbrite at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-ag-safety-day-desoto-hardee-highlands-manatee-counties-tickets-1981243178681.
In-person payments (cash or check) are also accepted at the Highlands County Extension Office located at 4509 George Blvd, Sebring, FL. For more information, please contact the Hardee County Extension Office at (863) 773-2164 or email hardee@ifas.ufl.edu.