Rural Retreat High School junior Olivia Crigger.
Olivia Crigger is a junior at Rural Retreat High School in Rural Retreat, Va. Safety awareness is something she has seen the effects of in her life, and she is truly living to serve.
Crigger has been a member of the Rural Retreat FFA Chapter for three years and is currently the historian. However, her agriculture and leadership experiences are not limited to the classroom. Crigger works extensively with her horses and on her family farm. She is also a Girl Scout, where she is working toward her gold award, and a 4-H member who’s studying diligently to achieve champion status in horse judging. She also has plenty of success in the 4-H arena, earning first place in barrel racing at the state show. She truly knows the pleasant yet challenging way of life we face as agriculturists.
After a local farming accident in 2022, Crigger noticed the lack of awareness surrounding farm equipment on rural roads. In southwest Virginia, beef cattle operations are common, so large tractors and hay equipment are the most common pieces of machinery that drivers must be aware of. Through social media, sharing educational materials and speaking at local events, Crigger’s project protects both farmers and drivers. By encouraging safer driving habits and greater respect for those who share our roads, she makes a positive impact.
“[My project] also helps people understand how quickly accidents can happen and how one small decision, like slowing down, can save a life,” Crigger says.
So far, Crigger’s actions have received valuable feedback and support. She has spoken to farmers, community members and leaders about her initiative. She’s also spoken to drivers who have had their fair share of close calls, reinforcing how important it is to be aware.
“I have also started a petition that I plan to present to my county’s board of supervisors to help improve roadway safety for farmers,” Crigger adds.
Her dedication to farm safety shows how much impact a person can make. By using her platform and voice to educate others, she is helping others and saving lives. Her efforts remind us to be aware of the space we are in and to take extra precaution when necessary.
