Deere praised for efforts with 811 safety number

Deere was honored for its efforts supporting the 811 'call-before-you-dig' safety number and program.
Deere was honored for its efforts supporting the 811 'call-before-you-dig' safety number and program.
The world's largest manufacturer of agriculture equipment was recognized for working to spread the word about safety while digging at construction sites.

The construction and forestry arm of John Deere was praised by the Common Ground Alliance, which awarded Deere for helping sort through challenges with the 811 safety program. That program is a resource that allows users to "call-before-you-dig," works to prevent mishaps that could be fatal. Users of John Deere farm equipment and agricultural equipment can benefit from this program.

"With so many of our customers using equipment to dig and shape the land, it's very important to promote awareness of the 811 number," said Candace Schnoor, public affairs director, who accepted the award on behalf of the Moline, Illinois-based company.

Since 2007, the Alliance has been hard at work to minimize strikes of underground utilities, which also saves lives. The group worked hard to minimize confusion by establishing one number to call, which became 811.

Schnoor connected the award being granted and the month during when it was issued.

"This is especially appropriate given that April is National Safe Digging Month," she said. "Knowing the location of buried utilities and digging safely saves lives, and we're proud to partner with the CGA in their quest for smart, safe digging."