Eye on the Sky
By Brookings County Emergency Management Director Bob Hill
BROOKINGS COUNTY (9-18-26) — Welcoming the Shift Into Fall: Safety, Harvest, and the Changing Landscape
As temperatures begin to cool and recent rains add a welcomed brightness to the landscape, the unmistakable signs of fall are steadily emerging across the region. What was once the full, lush greenery of midsummer is now transitioning into the warm tones and subtle changes that mark the year’s most transformative season. This slow shift will soon become official: the autumnal equinox arrives on Tuesday, September 22 at 7:05 p.m. CDT. At that moment, the Earth’s tilt positions us perfectly between the extremes of summer and winter, allowing for nearly equal amounts of daylight and darkness.
Many people refer to the equinox as the day when daylight and nighttime are evenly split—12 hours each—but that’s not entirely accurate. Atmospheric refraction bends light as the sun rises and sets, extending daylight slightly beyond what a strict geometric calculation would suggest. Additionally, the official definition of sunrise (the moment the sun’s upper edge appears over the horizon) adds a few extra minutes of daylight. Still, even with these scientific nuances, the equinox marks an undeniable turning point: days will continue to grow shorter, nights will stretch a bit longer, and our daily routines will gradually shift with the changing light.
Across the county, these changes are already visible in the fields and on the roads. Perhaps the most noticeable transformation is happening in the agricultural landscape. Soybean fields, which just weeks ago were a deep green, are now turning a soft yellow as plants enter the final stage of maturity. This transition signals that harvest season is just around the corner—an incredibly busy period for farmers who work tirelessly to gather the crops they planted and cared for throughout the spring and summer.
For farmers, the approach of fall is both an exciting and demanding time. The window for harvest is narrow, and conditions can change quickly. A stretch of wet weather can delay work, while early frost can complicate yields. As a result, many farmers extend their working hours well beyond daylight, often returning to the fields after dark to take advantage of favorable conditions. Large combines, tractors, grain carts, and trucks move steadily between fields, sometimes traveling on rural roads at times when drivers might not expect farm equipment to be out.
That’s why this seasonal shift brings an important reminder for everyone on the road: awareness and patience are essential. Agricultural machinery is large, slow, and not easily maneuvered, especially on narrow or winding roads. Many of these machine’s travel at speeds well under 25 miles per hour, which is why they display the bright orange slow moving vehicle (SMV) triangle on the rear. This reflective emblem is a universal sign that the vehicle requires extra caution from drivers approaching from behind.
As fall approaches, drivers should be especially vigilant when they see this symbol. Approaching too quickly can create dangerous situations, especially at dusk or after dark when visibility is reduced. If you encounter farm equipment on the road, slow down immediately and resist the urge to pass unless the operator clearly signals that it’s safe. Many rural roads lack shoulders or long stretches of straight pavement, so patience becomes a critical part of keeping everyone safe.
In addition to watching for SMV triangles, drivers should anticipate sudden turns or stops from farm vehicles. Tractors and combines often enter fields through narrow openings that may appear unexpectedly. They may also turn left across traffic to reach field entrances on the opposite side of the road. Being alert and avoiding distractions, especially during the busy evening hours, helps ensure that farmers can focus on their work and drivers can stay safe.
This time of year, also brings an uptick in traffic overall. School is back in session, meaning more buses are on the roads and more young drivers are heading to and from activities. The earlier sunsets mean commuters will soon find themselves driving home in partial darkness. Road construction may still be wrapping up in some areas, adding another layer of complexity for travelers. When all of these factors combine with harvest season, the result is a period that calls for heightened awareness and cooperation on the road.
Fall’s beauty often distracts us—the golden light, the turning leaves, the crisp air—but its arrival also signals a transition into one of the busiest and most demanding times for both farmers and everyday drivers. Taking a few simple precautions can make a profound difference. Slow down when approaching farm equipment. Allow plenty of space. Use headlights early as dusk approaches. Avoid distractions and remain focused on the road ahead.
As we welcome the autumnal equinox and its promises of cooler days and colorful landscapes, it’s worth remembering the people working long, careful hours to bring in the county’s harvest. Their work sustains our communities, and our patience helps support their safety.
So as summer slips into fall, let’s enjoy the change while keeping a mindful eye on the roads. With shorter days, busier traffic, and more equipment moving between fields, staying alert and slowing down is one of the most meaningful ways we can all contribute to a safe and successful start to the season.
Be safe out there until next week and as always, Keep An Eye on the Sky.
Bob the EM
