Maryland Farmers Urge Drivers to Share the Road During Planting Season

The Maryland Soybean Board's 'Find Me Driving' campaign promotes safety as slow-moving farm equipment returns to rural roads.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 1:44pm

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A vibrant, abstract image of a tractor and trailer in motion, with the vehicle transformed into sweeping streaks of color that convey a sense of speed and energy on the rural roads.As Maryland's planting season kicks into high gear, the state's farmers rely on public roads to move their large equipment, requiring extra vigilance from all drivers.Cordova Today

As Maryland's planting season begins in mid-April, the state's farmers are reminding motorists to slow down and exercise caution when encountering tractors, combines, and other large agricultural vehicles on rural roads. The Maryland Soybean Board has relaunched its 'Find Me Driving' public awareness campaign to promote road safety and bridge the gap between farmers and everyday drivers.

Why it matters

With over 12,600 farms across the state, agriculture is a vital part of Maryland's economy and community. The busy planting season highlights the importance of road safety, as slow-moving farm equipment must share narrow rural roads with passenger vehicles. Raising awareness helps ensure that everyone, from farmers to commuters, can travel safely.

The details

The 'Find Me Driving' campaign features a recognizable mascot, SAM, which stands for 'Slow down, Assess your surroundings, and Move with caution' - key safety tips for drivers encountering farm vehicles. These large machines typically travel at speeds of 25 mph or less, requiring extra patience and vigilance from other motorists.

  • Maryland's planting season begins in mid-April and stretches through the harvest months.
  • The 'Find Me Driving' campaign is an ongoing initiative by the Maryland Soybean Board.

The players

Maryland Soybean Board

A state organization that directs funds for research, marketing, and education programs to benefit the Maryland soybean industry.

Tyler Rill

A Maryland soybean farmer in Carroll County who highlights the challenges farmers face when navigating rural roads with large equipment.

Danielle Bauer

The executive director of the Maryland Soybean Board, who emphasizes the board's commitment to road safety during the busy planting season.

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What they’re saying

“When we are moving our equipment down the road, our focus is split between navigating roads, watching for mailboxes and hoping that drivers behind us are patient.”

— Tyler Rill, Maryland soybean farmer

“Year after year, our mission remains the same: we want everyone on Maryland roads to be safe.”

— Danielle Bauer, Executive Director, Maryland Soybean Board

What’s next

The Maryland Soybean Board will continue to promote the 'Find Me Driving' campaign throughout the planting and harvest seasons, using social media, public events, and other outreach efforts to educate both farmers and motorists about road safety.

The takeaway

The annual return of slow-moving farm equipment to Maryland's rural roads highlights the importance of shared responsibility and mutual understanding between the agricultural community and everyday drivers. By staying alert and exercising caution, all road users can help ensure a safe planting season.