About the Farm: Located in Paxtonville, Snyder County | 55 dairy cows with young stock and 120 head of cattle

The Back Story: Andrew was born on the farm – it’s always been a part of his life. His father milked cows for 25 years until Andrew bought the herd in May 2013. But, in September 2015, Andrew spent six weeks in the hospital and another eight weeks at a nursing home recovering from a shattered leg and broken eye socket and nose suffered in a 40-ft. fall from a silo. In the months that followed, Andrew got an infection in his leg and underwent two more surgeries. As a result, Andrew continues to battle pain, discomfort, and mobility issues on a daily basis. He uses a cane to help him get around the barn and his sense of balance when standing for periods of time is impaired.

Connecting with AgrAbility PA: While healing, Andrew looked into equipment and modifications that would help him with milking and accessibility. Paula Fisher, a family friend, had worked with AgrAbility PA before and recommended that he reach out. Andrew connected with Project Assistant Abbie Spackman in Spring 2016 and she visited Andrew to conduct a farm evaluation and assessment. In the weeks that followed, PA’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) sent a farm coordinator to meet with Andrew, Abbie, and an occupational therapist who has worked with dozens of farmers. As a team, several recommendations were made to assist with Andrew’s work around the farm.

The consultation, evaluation, and development of formal recommendations are free services available to farmers and agricultural workers in Pennsylvania. Contact AgrAbility PA to learn more.

Modifications & Equipment: Working with AgrAbility PA and OVR, Andrew was able to receive several modifications to help in the day-to-day work of milking:

• Rail System & Automatic Takeoffs: This system acts as a
carrier for the milking units in a tie stall barn and allows for
the use of automatic takeoffs. With this system, Andrew does
not have to carry or lift the milking units. Rather, they run on
an overhead track from the milk house to the stalls where the
cows are milked. The units can be easily attached to the milk
pipeline and to the cow while the weight is still held by the rail.

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• Gutter Grates: Installing gutter grates may seem like a simple idea, but for farmers like Andrew with mobility concerns, gutter grates can make a huge difference. Gutter grates cover the gutters that run behind the cows in a tie stall barn. The gutters can be difficult to step across and are a safety concern.

• Bobcat UTV: Andrew describes the vehicle as, “It’s like my legs now. I can get all around the farm in a safe way. It’s wonderful. I don’t know how I’d get along with out it.”

Andrew continues farming – despite the tough economic conditions dairy farmers are facing. He is grateful for the support and services, and how it has enabled him to continue his dream of dairy farming – and help to prevent further injury.