[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 126, 112th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8865--SEPT. 14, 2012

Proclamation 8865 of September 14, 2012

National Farm Safety and Health Week, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

From producing America's food, fuel, and fiber to advancing clean,
homegrown energy solutions, farmers and ranchers play an essential role
in driving our country's progress. They keep our economy moving forward,
and as important stewards of our environment, they help conserve our
lands, protect our wildlife, and safeguard our waters for future
generations. During National Farm Safety and Health Week, we celebrate
agricultural workers' vital contributions and reaffirm our commitment to
keeping them safe on the job.
Farmers and ranchers put in long hours to accomplish difficult tasks--
rain or shine. Many operate heavy machinery, handle livestock, and work
under hazardous conditions. Because the demands of the job put
agricultural workers at high risk of illness and injury, appropriate
training and education are critical. I encourage all farming and
ranching families to participate in farm safety and health programs,
remain aware of the hazards of their working environment, and carry out
safe practices every step of the way--from equipment inspection to
handling hazardous materials.
Our Nation's rural communities give America its heartbeat. They are home
to producers who rise before the dawn, entrepreneurs who bring ideas to
market, and working men and women who build the American dream with
their bare hands. This week, we honor their tireless efforts and
rededicate ourselves to equipping our next generation with the knowledge
and training they need to stay safe and healthy.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Con-


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stitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 16 through
September 22, 2012, 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 farm-workers for their contributions to our Nation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
seventh.
BARACK OBAMA