University project identifies labor-saving tools

The Healthy Farmers, Healthy Profits Project at the University of Wisconsin is a team of researchers and outreach specialists who find and share work efficiency methods that improve health, safety and profits for nursery growers and other agriculture segments.

These labor-efficient ideas not only cut down on manpower and time, but also create a safer alternative to many nursery tasks.

Distributor contact information is available at the Healthy Farmers, Healthy Profits Project Web site.

All information and costs suggested are provided by the Project.

For more: Astrid Newenhouse, Healthy Farmers, Healthy Profits Project, (608) 231-2622; www.bse.wisc.edu/hfhp.The Healthy Farmers, Healthy Profits Project is looking for new funding opportunities. In the past, the project was funded by federal grants through the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, a division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Now without that support, the project is trying to expand its funding base.

Contact Astrid Newenhouse, (608) 231-2622; www.bse.wisc.edu/hfhp.

One-person hitch

If you use tractors and wagons to move plants at your nursery, consider a one-person hitch that can save you time and reduce your risk for serious injury.

* Try a coupling device lets you hitch and unhitch tractors and wagons without leaving the tractor seat.

* 91 percent time savings compared to hand hitching.

* Less risk of serious injury. Avoid hitching accidents such as crushed fingers, getting pinned between the tractor and wagon, and slips or falls.

* Cost to outfit one tractor and three wagons: Approximately $800.

Strap-on stool

Stoop labor is unavoidable at many nurseries, since at times plant care and other tasks need to be done by hand.

* Try a one-legged stool attaches with waist belt.

* Lightweight and moves with you so your hands are free to work.

* Sit while you work and provide less strain on knees and back. Vary positions to help prevent muscle stress.

* Adjustable leg is wide at base.

* Cost: $22-$38.

Electronic pruners

If you prune at least 75 hours a year and typically cut large branches, consider a portable, electronic pruner to save time and reduce risk for serious injury.

* Try a handheld shears powered by a battery pack around the waist. The trigger finger determines how fast and far the blade closes.

* Up to 20 percent faster than manual pruners for cutting heavy stock.

* Less strain on arms, wrists, hands and fingers than manual pruners and safer than pneumatic pruners.

* May prevent costly overuse injuries.

* Cost: $1,000-$1,400.

Tree guard zipper

Nurseries using 3- or 4-inch-diameter, corrugated plastic tree guards should consider using a tree guard zipper to install and remove the protective sleeves. The zipper is a triangular piece of cast aluminum with a handle at the narrow end of the triangle and channels running down the sides.

* It installs and removes corrugated tree guards.

* Faster and easier on hands, wrists and forearms.

* Rounded edges protect the guard from scratching and scarring the trunk.

* Cost: $45-$50.

Long-handled diamond hoe

Many of the hoes commonly used for weeding may cause back, neck, shoulder or arm strain because they force you to adopt a stooped position. Long-handled hoes encourage you to stand up straight while you work and some keep your wrists and neck in a more neutral position.

* Its easy push/pull motion has a forged blade that’s sharp on all four sides.

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* User stands straight and uses less effort.

* 6-foot shaft with T-handle for better leverage and control.

* Cost: $35-$40.