Hands-on event gives farmers and first responders real-world rescue training

It’s not your typical farm meeting—and that’s exactly the point. On December 6, Ashland, Holmes and Wayne Soil and Water Conservation Districts will host the Conservation Chat: Lagoon Lifeline to provide hands-on manure pit rescue training for livestock producers and first responders.

This unique event will take confined space rescue education to a whole new depth—literally. Participants will get up close and personal with a one-of-a—kind manure pit rescue simulator, a 20-foot trailer holding 150 gallons of water that is designed to mimic real-life emergency conditions.

“Lagoon accidents and rescues are serious business and can easily become fatal,” said Jane Houin, Ashland SWCD director. “Sadly we’ve seen that happen right here in our area. This training is designed to be engaging, practical, and most importantly, lifesaving. It’s not everyday you get to clim inside a simulator and learn how to save a life.”

The hands-on training, designed specifically for farmers and first responders, covers everything from recognizing confided space hazards and low-oxygen risks to safety conducting manure pit rescues. The event will take place at Valley Vista Farm outside of Jeromesville, where the Hall family is passionate about providing this education to the area not only because they are farmers but also because of their involvement with the local fire department.

Bringing in a rescue simulator like this is a unique opportunity for local farmers and first responders, but would not be possible without the support of the events sponsors: Centerra Cooperative, Firelands Electric Cooperative, Harold’s Equipment, Lowe & Young, and Wellington Implement.

Thanks to their donations, the event is free for all area farmers and first responders, but interested participants are asked to register early. If there is enough response and interest early on, it might be possible to add a second training session for the afternoon. Registrations can be made at lagoon lifeline.eventbrite.com.

Firelands Electric Cooperative will also light up and additional training opportunity in the afternoon with their high-voltage Power Line Safety Demonstration trailer. This live line display shows just how powerful—and dangerous—electricity can be, using dramatic simulations that send sparks flying while teaching lifesaving lessons. From downed lines to backyard generators, trained professionals walk audiences through what not to do and how to stay safe when electricity is involved.

The cooperative’s safety team doesn’t just talk about safety—they bring it to life for first responders. Emergency personnel learn how to handle energized lines, fallen trees, and rescue situations involving electricity, while students and residents get hands-on lessons about electrical hazards in everyday life.

For more information, contact your local soil and water conservation district office in Ashland, Holmes or Wayne County.

Ashland SWCD’s monthly Conservation Chat series of events is designed to bring together local producers, conservation professional and community partners for down-to-earth discussions on stewardship and sustainability—with a side of good food and great company.