[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8565--SEPT. 17, 2010

Proclamation 8565 of September 17, 2010
National Farm Safety and Health Week, 2010
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Every day, the lives of Americans are touched by the hard work and
dedication of our Nation's farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers. The food
they produce through their tireless efforts fuels our Nation, nourishes
our bodies, and sustains millions at home and around the globe. As we
celebrate National Farm Safety and Health Week, we recognize the
tremendous contributions of these individuals and rededicate ourselves
to ensuring their safety and health at all times.
Our farmers, ranchers, farmworkers, horticultural workers, and their
families and communities are among the most productive in the world. Our
agriculture industry employs only a tiny percentage of the United States
workforce, yet its yield is worth billions of dollars a year and
supports the growth and development of the American economy.
Agricultural producers are stewards of our natural resources and
precious open spaces, and they are playing a key role in developing
renewable energy and moving America towards energy independence.
To safely continue this important work, those in the agriculture sector
must take special precautions in their daily tasks. Despite the great
advancements in modern agriculture, farming remains a labor-intensive
and sometimes dangerous occupation. America's agricultural producers
work in harsh weather conditions, handle dangerous chemicals and
materials, and operate large machinery and equipment. I encourage these
individuals and their families to conduct regular training on
respiratory protection; proper handling and usage of pesticides and
other hazardous materials; the inspection, maintenance, and safe
operation of machinery and other equipment; and emergency response and
rescue procedures. Additionally, farms and ranches with children or nov-

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ice farmers should receive proactive health and safety instruction to
prevent injury or illness.
By working together to ensure the highest standards of health and safety
for our agricultural producers, we will build upon this vital industry
and its contributions to make our Nation stronger, more secure, and more
prosperous in the years to come.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 19 through
September 25, 2010, as National Farm Safety and Health Week. I call upon
the agencies, organizations, businesses, and extension services that
serve America's agricultural workers to strengthen their commitment to
promoting farm safety and health programs. I also urge Americans to
honor our agricultural heritage and express appreciation to our farmers,
ranchers, and farmworkers for their remarkable contributions to our
Nation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
fifth.
BARACK OBAMA