The AgrAbility and Youth Tractor Safety Outreach Program Coordinator is an exciting new position for the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension, designed to provide outreach and support for programs that promote safety and health for Wisconsin farm businesses. Michelle will increase awareness of the programs and identify opportunities for new program development. She will create and support partnerships to promote the programs and increase access to diverse audiences. 

The position is funded in part by the USDA AgrAbility grant. The AgrAbility project is a partnership between the Division of Extension and EasterSeals Wisconsin. Since 1991, the AgrAbility project has been promoting success in agriculture for farmers and their families living with a farm injury, disability, or medical limitation.

Michelle has been integral to Extension since joining the Farm Management Program two years ago. Her contributions to the program helped build valuable programming for Youth Tractor Safety and other farm management programs for Wisconsin farmers.  While Michelle has enjoyed her role supporting these programs, working as the AgrAbility and Tractor Safety Outreach Program Coordinator will best use her skills and 6+ years of experience in the field. 

“I look forward to serving the people and communities of Wisconsin,” Bachand said.  “I am excited to develop partnerships while promoting and supporting programs that improve the lives of hard-working farmers.”

Michelle started her new role on May 6, 2024.  Her office is located at the Dunn County Extension office at 3001 US Hwy 12 E, Suite 216, Menomonie, WI 54751. Feel free to contact Michelle at michelle.bachand@wisc.edu or call (715) 619-7467. Learn more about Michelle and the Farm Management Program at farms.extension.wisc.edu/people.