Michigan State University Extension will offer the 4-H Tractor Operator Program beginning Jan. 18.

Successful completion of 4-H TOP provides a certificate of training required for operation of a 20 PTO HP or greater, garden or agricultural tractor, by 14 and 15-year-old youth employed on property not owned, leased or operated by a parent or legal guardian. Certification is also used by youth who exhibit and participate in local contests, parades and festival activities.

The nine-week course will be taught from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 18 through March 22. The program will meet at the Old Baroda Township Hall, 9081 First St., Baroda, Michigan, 49101.

This schedule includes educational sessions, some driving practice, final written and driving tests, and a graduation program. In addition, participants will need some study time for out of class assignments to reach the 24 hours of required training to be certified.

MSUE requires a minimum of 24 hours of instruction and participants must be 14 years of age by the date of the driving test to be eligible for certification.

Educational topics include farm/ranch hazards and safety, tractor component basics, pre-operational procedures, operation basics, tractor-powered implements, self-propelled agricultural equipment, operating on public roadways, basic maintenance and repair, ATV/utility vehicle safety, first aid and emergencies.

For more than 35 years, the 4-H TOP has been preparing youth for the workforce along with teaching young people safety, confidence and responsibility. People with questions about 4-H TOP, may contact Deb Barrett through the previous listed information or by e-mail at smithde6@anr.msu.edu.

Persons with disabilities may request accommodations by calling the Berrien County MSU Extension Office at (269) 927-5674 by Jan. 4, to ensure sufficient time to make arrangements. Requests received after this date will be met when possible.

Registration is required through the Berrien County MSU Extension Office by 5 p.m., Jan. 11. Cost is $50 per person. Checks are to be made out to Michigan State University, located at 1737 Hillandale Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022-9630. For more information, call, (269) 927-5674. The program must have at least six participants registered to operate, with a maximum of 20.

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.