Michigan AgrAbility helps those with limitations, whether from injury, illness or disability, to help them continue their livelihood on the farm. The program commits to serving 150 clients per year through at least 60 farm evaluations, ensuring that farmers receive tailored solutions to meet their needs. In the 2024 grant year, staff met with 212 clients, while Michigan Rehabilitation Services provided a total of $368,590 in funding for equipment modifications and assistive technologies. To better assess the program’s effectiveness, Michigan AgrAbility revised its evaluation process in 2024. Rather than waiting for a year-end survey as in previous years, the team began following up with clients as cases closed. This change resulted in a substantial increase in feedback, with a 70.5% response rate, nearly double that of 2023. Client feedback showed that 100% of clients rated the program as "excellent" or "good" in all areas, including the effectiveness of modifications, improvements in their ability to work, the information provided, communication and overall satisfaction.
In addition to direct client services, Michigan AgrAbility collaborates with MSU’s Mechanical Engineering capstone course to develop assistive technology solutions. Through 23 projects to date, these student-led design teams have focused on creating assistive devices that are replicable, low-cost (under $1,000), and practical for real clients. Last spring, a team created a swarm trap hive lifter for a Heroes to Hives veteran beekeeper instructor. The design plans the device are available online through MSU Extension. In Fall 2024, students created a mechanized rolling kneeler cart that helps small farms tend low crops. The design includes steering and motorization options, controlled by two switches (power and direction) and a speed dial. These design plans are also available online. These innovations earned the design team the Edison Award of achievement from the Mechanical Engineering Department during the fall Design Day event.
Beyond its engineering collaborations, Michigan AgrAbility benefits from strong community partnerships. The Tau chapter of the Alpha Gamma Rho (AGR) fraternity continues to be a generous supporter In 2024, their total donations to AgrAbility surpassed $150,000, with their annual beef preview show at the MSU Livestock Pavilion in February bringing in $34,000. Other key supporters include the Potgeter Family Fund and The Andersons.
Michigan AgrAbility staff also conducts outreach throughout the state, ensuring that farmers and agricultural workers are aware of available resources. In 2024, Michigan AgrAbility staff and volunteers participated in nine presentations and hosted booths at seven agricultural and health-related events. These include the Great Lakes Crop Summit, the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference, Michigan Beekeepers Association conference, Michigan Food and Farming Network conference, the Great Lakes Fruit and Vegetable Growers Expo, the Northern Michigan Small Farms Conference, events with the MI Department of Health and Human Services and Labor and Economic Opportunity offices, InterCare and the Michigan Farm Bureau annual meeting.
Staff also attended several professional development events including the National AgrAbility Project’s (NAP) National Training Workshop in Atlanta and the Western Region Agricultural Stress Assistance Program’s Regional Training Workshop in Guam. Additionally, they collaborated with NAP and the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) to host a Regional Training Workshop in Ann Arbor in summer 2024. Forty-four people attended, earning continuing education credits from RESNA. Agricultural engineer and Assistive Technology Professional Ned Stoller delivered educational sessions at all these events, as well as several webinars and other meetings.
Michigan AgrAbility plays an important role in supporting people facing injuries, disabilities and age-related conditions, ensuring they can continue their livelihoods in agriculture. Through comprehensive services, strategic partnerships and ongoing innovation, the program helps individuals overcome workplace challenges in agriculture. By collaborating with partners like MSU’s Mechanical Engineering Department, AGR and various agricultural organizations, AgrAbility provides innovative solutions and valuable resources to farm communities. The program’s success is reflected in positive client feedback, ongoing donor support and the measurable impact of its outreach efforts. With continued dedication and collaboration, Michigan AgrAbility is building a more accessible and sustainable future for farmers and agricultural workers across the state.
Source : msu.edu