By Samantha Wolfe
Agriculture has a reputation for being a relatively dangerous occupation, with a work-related injury rate of 4.6 per 100 full-time equivalent employees, about 70% higher than the average injury rate of 2.7 per 100, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure is likely underreported, as it excludes farms with fewer than 11 employees. Despite this limitation, it provides a starting point for understanding the risks faced by agricultural workers. Data from the Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (OEM) illustrates that cows were the leading cause of injury in 2021, causing 32% of farm-related injuries, followed by tractors and non-tractor machines at 25%.
Since 2015, Michigan hospitals have been required to report work-related injuries. OEM compiles, tracks and investigates these incidents and then sends follow-up letters to injured individuals and their families, including AgrAbility materials when deemed appropriate. This outreach serves as a crucial introduction to AgrAbility services for many potential clients. From January 2023 to September 2024, OEM reviewed 575 medical records and created investigations and reports accordingly. Of these workplace injuries, 402 took place on farms, and OEM sent letters suggesting AgrAbility as a resource to individuals and their families on a case-by-case basis. By bridging the gap between injured workers and available resources, AgrAbility helps guide individuals toward rehabilitation advances and assistive technology that improve work accessibility.
Self-reported data from over 800 clients in Michigan throughout the duration of the AgrAbility project suggests that 23% of clients have experienced a musculoskeletal injury at some point in their lives, while another 53% of clients have arthritis. This aligns with broader national trends, as the Arthritis Foundation estimates that nearly one in three adults are thought to have arthritis, with even greater prevalence in those over the age of 65. Given the physically demanding nature of agricultural work, addressing these conditions is critical to helping farmers maintain their livelihoods.
Michigan AgrAbility helps those with limitations, whether from injury, illness or disability, to help them continue their livelihood on the farm. The program commits to serving 150 clients per year through at least 60 farm evaluations, ensuring that farmers receive tailored solutions to meet their needs. In the 2024 grant year, staff met with 212 clients, while Michigan Rehabilitation Services provided a total of $368,590 in funding for equipment modifications and assistive technologies. To better assess the program’s effectiveness, Michigan AgrAbility revised its evaluation process in 2024. Rather than waiting for a year-end survey as in previous years, the team began following up with clients as cases closed. This change resulted in a substantial increase in feedback, with a 70.5% response rate, nearly double that of 2023. Client feedback showed that 100% of clients rated the program as "excellent" or "good" in all areas, including the effectiveness of modifications, improvements in their ability to work, the information provided, communication and overall satisfaction.
In addition to direct client services, Michigan AgrAbility collaborates with MSU’s Mechanical Engineering capstone course to develop assistive technology solutions. Through 23 projects to date, these student-led design teams have focused on creating assistive devices that are replicable, low-cost (under $1,000), and practical for real clients. Last spring, a team created a swarm trap hive lifter for a Heroes to Hives veteran beekeeper instructor. The design plans the device are available online through MSU Extension. In Fall 2024, students created a mechanized rolling kneeler cart that helps small farms tend low crops. The design includes steering and motorization options, controlled by two switches (power and direction) and a speed dial. These design plans are also available online. These innovations earned the design team the Edison Award of achievement from the Mechanical Engineering Department during the fall Design Day event.
Beyond its engineering collaborations, Michigan AgrAbility benefits from strong community partnerships. The Tau chapter of the Alpha Gamma Rho (AGR) fraternity continues to be a generous supporter In 2024, their total donations to AgrAbility surpassed $150,000, with their annual beef preview show at the MSU Livestock Pavilion in February bringing in $34,000. Other key supporters include the Potgeter Family Fund and The Andersons.
Michigan AgrAbility staff also conducts outreach throughout the state, ensuring that farmers and agricultural workers are aware of available resources. In 2024, Michigan AgrAbility staff and volunteers participated in nine presentations and hosted booths at seven agricultural and health-related events. These include the Great Lakes Crop Summit, the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference, Michigan Beekeepers Association conference, Michigan Food and Farming Network conference, the Great Lakes Fruit and Vegetable Growers Expo, the Northern Michigan Small Farms Conference, events with the MI Department of Health and Human Services and Labor and Economic Opportunity offices, InterCare and the Michigan Farm Bureau annual meeting.
Staff also attended several professional development events including the National AgrAbility Project’s (NAP) National Training Workshop in Atlanta and the Western Region Agricultural Stress Assistance Program’s Regional Training Workshop in Guam. Additionally, they collaborated with NAP and the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) to host a Regional Training Workshop in Ann Arbor in summer 2024. Forty-four people attended, earning continuing education credits from RESNA. Agricultural engineer and Assistive Technology Professional Ned Stoller delivered educational sessions at all these events, as well as several webinars and other meetings.
Michigan AgrAbility plays an important role in supporting people facing injuries, disabilities and age-related conditions, ensuring they can continue their livelihoods in agriculture. Through comprehensive services, strategic partnerships and ongoing innovation, the program helps individuals overcome workplace challenges in agriculture. By collaborating with partners like MSU’s Mechanical Engineering Department, AGR and various agricultural organizations, AgrAbility provides innovative solutions and valuable resources to farm communities. The program’s success is reflected in positive client feedback, ongoing donor support and the measurable impact of its outreach efforts. With continued dedication and collaboration, Michigan AgrAbility is building a more accessible and sustainable future for farmers and agricultural workers across the state.
Source : msu.edu