Agriculture

Lacombe County's mission is to engage, support and enhance the agriculture community and rural entrepreneurs, all while enhancing rural life in Lacombe County. We will contribute to and support agriculture by developing and implementing responsive and progressive municipal policies and programs.

As the frost thaws and the days grow longer, farmers across Lacombe County gear up for the crucial task of spring seeding. Tractors and heavy machinery are making their way back to the fields, marking the start of a busy planting season.

This surge of agricultural activity, however, brings an increased presence of slow moving vehicles (SMVs) on the roads— a change that requires heightened awareness and safety measures from all road users. Here are essential tips and best practices for both farmers operating SMVs and travellers driving near these vehicles, ensuring a safe spring seeding season for everyone.

Tips for Operating Slow Moving Vehicles (SMVs):

• Display the SMV Emblem: Make sure your vehicle has a visible slow-moving vehicle emblem mounted at the rear. This triangular, reflective sign alerts other road users that your vehicle travels at speeds of 40 km/h (25 mph) or less.
• Ensure Proper Lighting: Before dawn, after dusk, or in poor visibility conditions, make sure your vehicle is equipped with adequate lighting. Front headlights and rear tail lights increase visibility, making it easier for others to see you.
• Plan Your Route: If possible, plan your route to minimize travel on busy roads and during peak traffic times. Consider using alternative routes that are less travelled to reach your fields.

Safe Driving Practices Near SMVs:

• Patience is Key: SMVs are not just tractors; they include farm implements, construction equipment, and other oversized loads that are vital for local agriculture and infrastructure projects. When encountering these vehicles, exercise patience and understand they are essential for the work being done.
• Pass With Care: Only pass an SMV when it's safe. Ensure you have clear visibility of oncoming traffic and that the vehicle is not signalling to make a left turn. Remember, the operator may have limited visibility, so signal your intentions well in advance.
• Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe following distance. SMVs may make unexpected stops or turns, especially when entering or exiting fields. A safe distance allows you more time to react to these maneuvers.

For Those Driving a Moving Truck or an Oversized Load:

When navigating the highways and byways of Lacombe County with an oversized load or at speeds below the limit, the following guidelines will ensure safety for all road users:

• Right Lane Usage: Move to the right lane whenever it’s safe. This allows faster-moving vehicles to pass safely on the left.
• Stay Close to the Curb: Drive as near to the right curb or edge of the roadway as practical. This minimizes the obstruction to the normal flow of traffic.
• Avoid Passing: Avoid overtaking or passing another vehicle unless absolutely necessary. The size and speed of your load make this maneuver risky.
• Left Turn Caution: Exercise extreme caution when turning left at an intersection or into a driveway. Ensure oncoming traffic is a safe distance away before executing your turn.
• Follow Traffic Directives: If traffic control devices or signs direct slow-moving traffic to use a specific lane, adhere strictly to these instructions. They are placed for your safety and the safety of others.

As we embrace the spring seeding season, let’s commit to heightened vigilance and safety on the roads. By following these guidelines, we can ensure a safe and productive season for the farmers and residents of Lacombe County alike. Together, we can keep our community safe and support the agricultural activities that are the backbone of our local economy.

Harvest season in Lacombe County (and rural Alberta) comes a unique mix of activity on rural roads. Farmers are hard at work bringing in their crops, school buses are back on their routes, and late-summer travellers are still enjoying the countryside. It’s a busy time, and we all share the responsibility of keeping our roads safe. Whether you’re driving a combine, a camper, or a car, a little patience and awareness go a long way.

For Farmers & Agricultural Operators

• Expect increased traffic on rural roads, especially during school hours.
• Ensure all equipment is road-ready: lights, reflectors, and slow-moving vehicle emblems must be visible and functional.
• Return equipment to transport mode to reduce width.
• Plan your route to avoid low power lines and narrow bridges or culverts.

For Drivers & Travellers

• Be patient and give yourself extra time — harvest equipment moves slowly and may take up more road space.
• Stay alert for turning or crossing machinery, especially on gravel roads and field entrances.
• Respect school zones and watch for children, especially during morning and afternoon commutes.

Back to School + Harvest = Busy Roads

• Slow down in school zones.
• Avoid distractions.
• Practice extra caution near bus stops and crosswalks.

Safety Tips from Alberta Agriculture & Forestry

• Transport equipment safely and legally.
• Be aware of other motorists and road users.
• Follow all traffic laws.
• Make sure all safety markings and lights are in place and working.

Questions or Concerns? For more information on road safety, please contact Lacombe County’s Community Services Department at 403-782-8959 or visit our website: www.lacombecounty.com.

Let’s work together to keep Lacombe County’s roads safe this harvest season. A little extra time and attention can make all the difference. Stay alert, stay patient, and stay safe out there!