MoDot urges motorists to use caution when encountering tractor-mowers near the shoulders of interstates and other busy roadways

Though it’s been a drier start to summer than usual, seasonal growth along Missouri’s roadways still needs to be mowed. The Missouri Department of Transportation urges motorists to use caution when encountering tractor-mowers near the shoulders of interstates and other busy roadways. “Mowing roadsides increases visibility for motorists along Missouri roadways,” said MoDOT State Maintenance Director Natalie Roark. “We ask motorists to please watch out for our crews and help keep them safe, too. Pay attention, slow down when approaching mowing crews, and never drive distracted.” Major and minor routes will be mowed at least three times through the end of October. MoDOT mows about 400,000 acres of grass each year, which is equivalent to 300,000 football fields. Crews use a protective “follow” truck to alert motorists they are approaching slow-moving mowers.