MoDOT maintenance crews are in the midst of mid-summer mowing of roadsides throughout Southwest Missouri, and drivers should use caution when coming up behind slow-moving tractors, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

Roadsides will be mowed along state routes in rural areas as well as state routes that pass through cities, smaller towns and suburban areas.

In most areas, tractors mowing the roadsides will make one pass, making cuts of six feet to 15 feet wide, depending on terrain and obstructions.

When approaching a mowing operation:

* On two-lane roads, watch for a dump truck following one or more tractors, all with warning lights flashing, moving between 2 mph and 5 mph along the roadsides.

* Be prepared to stop or drive very slowly behind the protective “follow” truck, especially approaching a hill or curve on a two-lane road.

* Go around the mowing operation only when you can see far enough to make sure you do not meet oncoming traffic.

* Be alert when driving busy urban routes where tractors will mow close to traffic on outside shoulders and in freeway and expressway medians.

This round of mowing will be completed by mid- to late July. The final mowing of the year will begin in mid-September, with completion by Nov. 30.

Between mowings, if you see grass and weeds that block visibility at road or street intersections along state roads, call MoDOT. Workers will respond to cut away the visual obstruction.