By Scout Nelson
Summit Contracting, a leading provider of agricultural construction services in South Dakota, Nebraska, and Iowa, has donated a Res-Q-Tube, a vital grain rescue device, to Central Valley Ag Coop (CVA). This donation will enhance CVA’s ability to conduct training sessions and demonstrations aimed at improving grain safety in local agricultural communities.
CVA has been committed to raising awareness about the dangers of grain engulfment, especially in rural areas across Nebraska, Kansas, and Iowa. To address this issue, CVA created a grain engulfment demonstration trailer, a mobile unit that brings in-person safety training directly to the communities it serves. The trailer allows volunteers to experience firsthand the risks associated with grain bins and provides valuable insight into how quickly a person can become trapped in grain.
The training sessions are designed to teach volunteers, first responders, and local youth the importance of grain safety. These events also offer practical training on the proper response to grain entrapments, which can be life-threatening. Since May 2024, CVA has been borrowing a grain rescue tube from a local fire department for their demonstrations. However, this arrangement limited the fire department’s resources for real emergency situations.
To address this, Summit Contracting partnered with CVA to donate a Res-Q-Tube, allowing the organization to continue its educational efforts without relying on borrowed equipment. “Having the proper equipment to continue our grain safety education efforts is crucial,” said Joel Wochner of CVA. “This donation from Summit Contracting allows us to enhance our training programs and ensure that local communities can respond effectively in the event of a grain entrapment.”
“Raising awareness about the dangers of grain entrapments is vital to prevention. By providing CVA with the Res-Q-Tube, we are helping equip our communities with the knowledge and resources needed to stay safe and respond appropriately to potential hazards.” said Jerad Hutchens, President of Summit Contracting.
For more information about CVA’s grain safety initiatives or to learn about Summit Contracting’s support, please contact Sonya Moller Marketing Director by mail at Sonya@bouwensfc.com or 605.630.4903.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sveta
Categories: South Dakota, Education