Mar 19, 2017 3 min read

By Mark Soroka

Farming is all about working the land. And if you are a farmer, sooner or later you may need to undertake an excavating project. Whether you are constructing a fence, building a new barn, clearing land for planting or dealing with a water erosion issue, it’s important to follow some basic guidelines, says a local farmer and excavating expert.

“Common sense will keep you out of trouble and make it easier to successfully complete an excavating project,” said Bob Smith, a Monongahela-based grass farmer who also has extensive experience doing excavation for highway and construction projects.

Smith advises farmers to contact their municipal office before beginning an excavating project. “You should make sure you are in compliance with any zoning regulations,” he said. “Each town has different regulations for redevelopment and you could face a fine if you aren’t properly following the rules.”

In addition, farmers should notify their local police and/or fire departments if they will be burning refuse. “False alarms aren’t conducive for good community relations. If the police and fire departments don’t know what you are doing, they might have to go through the trouble of sending out an emergency response unit. You should also avoid burning on windy days. Not only is that hazardous but it doesn’t show respect for your neighbors,” said Smith.

One of the most serious problems a farmer can encounter is digging into a gas, electric or water line. Farmers can avoid trouble simply by calling the 811 hotline.

“Even if you have owned and worked on property for 30 or 40 years, you may not be completely sure about what’s buried there,” said Smith. “The utility companies will be more than happy to check out your property and clear you for digging. Also, if you will be doing any spring development, make sure you notify your local conservation officers. They will help you to avoid erosion problems.”

While farmers are handy with equipment and tools, it’s not unusual to have an accident while on the job. That’s why it is important for farmers to always have safety topmost on their minds.

“Farmers work with some very heavy equipment that can do a lot of damage if not used properly,” said Smith. “For example, if you are digging a ditch, it’s a good idea to use a trench box. That can help protect you in the event that a ditch collapses.”

Although most farmers are capable of doing excavation themselves, there are times when it makes sense to call a professional.

“Farming is a full-time job and it can be a real challenge juggling an excavating project with other farming chores, such as cutting the hay or feeding the livestock,” said Smith. “A good professional excavator can save you time and money. Check out the company’s credentials before you hire them for the job. You can also get helpful advice by talking to other farmers who have used excavators.”