By Blake Jackson
For beginning farmers looking to expand beyond small-scale plots, mastering tractor operation can be a game-changer. Kentucky State University addressed this need by launching its first Tractor School in August at the Harold R. Benson Research and Demonstration Farm.
The three-day hands-on program offered participants practical training in tractor use, maintenance, and mechanized production techniques critical for scaling up their operations.
This program is part of Farming for Cash, a USDA-funded initiative supporting Kentucky producers since 2012.
“Many new farmers come from non-farming backgrounds and start small,” said Dr. Siddhartha Dasgupta, professor and associate research director in the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources.
“As they grow, they need to mechanize to compete in wholesale markets. Tractor School gave them the confidence and knowledge to take that critical next step.”
Participants learned to operate tractors safely, manage gears and hydraulics, engage the power-take-off, and use the three-point hitch. They also practiced routine maintenance such as oil changes and fluid checks.
Using older-model Ford tractors with manual transmissions, farmers plowed fields, shaped raised beds, laid and lifted plastic mulch, installed irrigation, cultivated rows, and sidedressed fertilizer.
For those preferring smaller equipment, instruction on two-wheel walk-behind tractors from Italy was also provided. These compact machines can perform multiple tasks, including bed formation, seeding, mulching, cultivation, and specialty operations like planting and harvesting potatoes and onions.
The training included a session on small-scale grain and oilseed production by Kentucky State agronomist Dr. Anuj Chiluwal, noting rising demand for specialty organic grains.
Future sessions may include demonstrations with small-scale harvesting equipment such as combines, reapers, and threshers.
Participants came from diverse backgrounds, including Louisville, African immigrant farmers in Fayette County, and a farmer from Nepal. Feedback showed strong satisfaction, with many requesting longer sessions.
“Kentucky State is committed to supporting beginning farmers with the tools and training they need to succeed,” said Dr. Marcus Bernard, dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources and director of the Land Grant Program.
“Our work is meant to be impactful, improving lives and strengthening the health of our communities. Tractor School is another way the University is helping producers grow their businesses, support their families, and contribute to a stronger Kentucky.”
Organizers plan to expand Tractor School to a five-day program in 2026 to reach more beginning farmers statewide.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pablo-rodriguez1
Categories: Kentucky, Education, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety