(KLZA) Missouri highway workers are mowing the roadsides on major roads across Northwest Missouri this fall and in many areas throughout the state this month, according to the Missouri Department of Transportation. The goal is to complete the mowing of all major roads to provide good visibility at intersections by mowing 30 feet on each side of the highway. Non-major routes will be mowed 15 feet on each side. Weather permitting, mowing will continue until November 30.
    Tractors and "follow" trucks will be on the roads from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday each week through November.
    Striving for the best value in every operation, MoDOT has streamlined its approach in taking care of roadsides by combining herbicide applications in March and April with three mowing cycles during May, July and October through November, weather permitting.
    Between mowing cycles, motorists who see grass and weeds blocking visibility at road or street intersections along state roads should call MoDOT, and workers will respond and cut away the visual obstruction.
    For drivers who come up behind a mowing operation:
        Be alert for trucks and tractors with lights flashing and moving slowly -- 2 mph to 5 mph.
        Slow down and focus on the road ahead of you. Avoid talking on a cell phone or other distractions.
        Be prepared to stop or drive very slowly behind a "follow" truck, especially approaching a hill or curve on a two-lane road.
        Pass when you can see far enough past the "follow" truck to avoid meeting oncoming traffic.
        Pass the tractor when it is safe.