Harvest is underway across Iowa, and farmers are feeling the pressure that comes with it: long hours, tight margins, record diesel prices, and a narrow window to get the crop out of the field.
When every hour and dollar counts, it can be tempting to push through exhaustion or rush to finish the job. But no deadline is more important than getting home safe. Earlier this month, we lost one of Iowa agriculture’s strongest voices, Ray Gaesser, in a tragic farming accident. ⬇️
Ray was a steward of the land, spending his life farming, fighting for Iowa agriculture, and helping set the next generation of farmers up for success. That’s why I led my colleagues in designating the week of September 21, 2026, as Ray Gaesser Memorial Farm Safety Week.
Why it matters: Iowa farmers already face enough pressure at harvest. Standing up for them means keeping farmers safe, bringing down input costs like diesel, and getting a full Farm Bill signed into law so producers have the certainty they need. And in an industry where an estimated 160 workers are injured every day, taking the extra minute can save a life.
Bottom Line: Ray Gaesser dedicated his life to Iowa agriculture. This harvest, we’re honoring his legacy by reminding every farmer to take the extra minute, look out for one another, and make sure everyone gets home safe.