100-Dollar-Ideas

2017 Top Producer of the Year Finalist: Richard and Roderick Gumz

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 16:18:57 GMT

The brothers co-own a diversified crop farm including potatoes, onions, carrots and mint. They’ve invested in field drainage and other technology that makes production, packing and shipping more efficient than ever.

Brothers Richard and Roderick Gumz strive for ultimate efficiency and revenue on each acre they farm. This is no easy task, as their operation, Gumz Farms in Endeavor, Wis., produces a cornucopia of crops.

In addition to corn and soybeans, Richard and Roderick’s team produces 875 acres of potatoes, 675 acres of onions, 300 acres of carrots and 1,800 acres of mint, making them one of the largest mint producers in Wisconsin. Carrots are sold to processors who slice and dice them, while the onions and potatoes are packed for retail and sold on the fresh market under the Gumz Farms brand.

The vertically integrated operation is a fourth-generation farm that has evolved to maximize consumer demands under Richard and Roderick’s acute leadership.

“We have made the investment in the building and the technology,” Roderick explains. “Our customers see that and see that we’re committed to producing a good crop, committed to quality, committed to food safety. They want to partner with us because they see that we’re willing to make that commitment.”

The brothers’ great grandfather founded Gumz Farms in the 1930s in Indiana. He later expanded into Wisconsin. In 1994, the brothers bought the Wisconsin operation and formed Gumz Muck Farms

The “muck” part of the farm’s name is an homage to the soils that fuel their operation. High in organic matter, these soils are perfect for onion, potato and mint production. Although this sparse soil type creates high yields, it also takes intensive production management, especially when it comes to drainage systems. The brothers are logistics masters, as their plethora of crops keeps them in nearly year-round production mode.

As Richard and Roderick have grown their business, they’ve focused on vertical growth. In 2012, they expanded their on-farm potato packaging facility and built a new onion packaging facility, complete with offices and meeting rooms. The brothers are early adopters of technology, and their facilities include an optical sorter, automated stacking equipment and precision ag technology in the field. Their team also uses social media to increase awareness about their products.

To match the growth of their operation, the brothers have expanded their team and made engagement and retention a focus for their 90 full- and part-time employees. The word has spread, and now people seek them out for jobs with the operation.

Richard and Roderick give of their time, as well. They are both members of, and hold leadership roles with, numerous farming and community organizations. They also are quick to help those in need. None of their produce goes to waste. Through a partnership with Feeding America, all of their off-grade or misshapen produce is donated. Last year, the operation provided over 5 million pounds of produce to the Feeding America network.

“We’re looking to do this for the next generation,” Richard says. “We’re not just trying to survive until we retire.”

Watch Gumz Farms’ story on AgDay above.

2017 Top Producer of the Year Finalist: John Pagel

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 16:18:28 GMT

The CEO of Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy in Kewaunee, Wis., also owns three cheese manufacturing facilities and a farm-to-fork restaurant in Green Bay.

John Pagel has a lot on his plate. He serves as CEO of Wisconsin’s largest single-family-owned dairy operation; farms several thousand acres; owns three cheese manufacturing facilities; and, as of August 2015, is a restaurateur in Green Bay, where he owns a farm-to-fork restaurant and food market.

Although his schedule stays packed, he wouldn’t have it any other way. John is a hardworking and acute businessman who enjoys a challenge. His operation’s success comes from a strong foundation.
Seventy years ago, John’s parents, Carl and Garnet, purchased a farm and founded Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy . When John took it over in 1980, the dairy included 65 cows and 380 acres.

“There were a few moments in my life where I wasn’t quite sure I was going to be a farmer,” John says. “I graduated high school. I worked off the farm for a year, and I knew exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I came back to the farm, and I’ve been here ever since.”\

Fast forward to today, and the thriving operation includes 5,300 dairy cows, 8,500 crop acres and a digester that produces electricity for the entire town of Kewaunee, John’s hometown. It also employs 120 full-time and 10 part-time team members, making him one of the largest employers in the region.

John’s team includes his four children. His daughter, Jamie, manages the office and heads up the human resources department, while son John works on the production side with the milking herd and young stock. Son Bryan manages the digester and bedding dryer plus wholesale meat sales, and son Dustin works with the field crews and is in charge of nutrient distribution.

Three years ago, John hired a professional coach to zero in on family and employee relations. The resulting employee training program is called “CARS,” an acronym for communication, accountability, respect and sustainability.

This program helps employees understand the farm’s core values and what is expected of them. In addition to this structured employee development program, a counselor visits regularly to lead team-building exercises and meet with employees.

To diversify the business and go full-circle with their farm, John and his team opened a market and farm-to-fork restaurant, called Cannery Public Market, in nearby Green Bay. They engaged a consultant to define their target market and a design team to remodel a former canning building originally constructed in 1917. They took down four barns for lumber to furnish the space and display farm artifacts.

“It’s a huge adjustment, but I believe it will make us better farmers,” John says, “going all the way from one cycle to the other, learning what the consumer wants and why they want it, and to be able to bring that back to the farm and grow what the consumer needs and wants.”

John is dedicated to his community, holds numerous leadership positions in farming organization and serves on the local school board. He also regularly opens up the farm to host local grade school students so they can learn about the many career offerings in agriculture.

One of John’s references described him as having ingenuity, dedication and boundless enthusiasm.

“It’s amazing that I get to work with my children, and the grandkids get off the school bus here every day,” John says. “I’m very blessed in that way.”

Watch Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy’s story on AgDay above.

Heartland Farms Named 2018 Top Producer of the Year Finalist

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 16:12:58 GMT

For Jeremie Pavelski, serving as president of Heartland Farms combines two passions: agriculture and technology. This innovative young farmer is leading his family’s operation, which began in 1873, to new levels of success.

Heartland Farms is a partnership between Jeremie, his father, Richard, Dave Knights and TJ Kennedy. Spanning 24,000 acres, the top crop on this Wisconsin-based farm is potatoes, though they also grow sweet corn, canning peas, green beans and soybeans. Annually 8,000 acres are dedicated to potatoes, most of which end up as potato chips.

“Dick ran into some people at a John Hancock seminar that was key in Frito lay that were talking about trying to go to unit suppliers and get rid of a lot of their growers and go to larger units and stuff and it truly opened up a door for us,” Knights says. “I think life, in general, is a sense of when opportunities present themselves. Are you prepared to take them on? And you never seemed to know when they’re coming.”

Heartland Farms includes 120 full-time and 150 part-time employees. This team is comprised of what Jeremie calls “old-school knowledge” and “new-tech savvy.” Through careful planning and mentoring, these two groups have learned to work collaboratively.

The success of the operation depends on its team. The farm’s leaders conduct tri-annual employee reviews and offer regular training. They provide catered meals to every employee at harvest and offer bonuses based on good attendance.

I think you’ve heard us all talked about its people, people, people without good dedicated people. You know you can’t make it very far,” Jeremie says. “Each individual at the upper levels of the company understands that our job is to train our replacement and to make sure he’s better than we are.”

Heartland Farms is committed to its community. Jeremie holds numerous roles in leadership and community organizations. The operation and the Pavelksi family have committed to donating $450,000, to support their local school’s STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) program. They’ve also committed $500,000 to help start a Breast Care Center in Stevens Point, Wis.

“We still consider this a family farm and when people say ‘well how can that still be a family farm at that size of the operation?’ my answer to that is it’s the kind of family farm you build when you do it for 130 years with five generations,” Richard says.

Congratulations to Heartland Farms for being a 2018 Top Producer of the Year award finalist.

Thanks To The 2018 Top Producer Of The Year Award Sponsors:

Courtesy of Bayer, each finalist receives CEO coaching sessions with Sarah Beth Aubrey with Aubrey Coaching & Training and a Top Producer columnist, and a trip to this year’s Commodity Classic. From Case IH, the winner receives use of a new Case IH tractor for 150 hours of use or six months.

2019 Top Producer of the Year

The award honors three producers whose operations are at the forefront of agriculture and crowns one winner. Entrants are judged on entrepreneurial originality (50%), financial and business progress (30%) and industry or community leadership (20%). All three finalists receive trips to the Summit, CEO coaching sessions and other prizes. The winner also receives a lease of a Case IH tractor. Download the application and apply by Aug. 30 . Sponsored by Bayer and Case IH

Gulke: 'We've Run Out of Demand'

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 15:00:58 GMT

U.S. farmers are harvesting record-breaking corn and soybean crops, according to USDA’s Nov. 9 Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates . While the storyline for much of the growing season has been record production, now farmers are faced with an even bigger problem—increasing production without corresponding demand increases.

USDA pegs the 2016 corn production at 15.2 billion bu., up 1% from the October forecast and up 12% from last year. The national average corn yield is forecast at 175.3 bu. per acre, up 1.9 bu. from the October forecast and up 6.9 bu. from 2015.

U.S. soybean production is forecast at 4.36 billion bu., up 2% from October and up 11% from last year. The national average soybean yield is pegged at 52.5 bu. per acre, up 1.1 bu. from last month and up 4.5 bu. from 2015.

Most pre-report estimates called for a decrease in corn and a 6/10 increase in soybean yield, says Jerry Gulke, president of Gulke Group .

“We thought they would raise corn,” he says. “But they raised it 1.9 bushels, which is pretty big.”

In the last several reports, as USDA has increased production for both crops this year, Gulke says, demand followed suit. But that largely stopped Nov. 9.

“What we feared was at some point in time you run out of demand,” he says. “That’s what we saw today.”

With supply rising faster than use, USDA raised corn ending stocks to 83 million bu. “The thing that concerned us most is they translated most of the new production into ending stocks, which in essence is saying we can’t really find a home for all of it,” Gulke says.

Soybean ending stocks also increased by 85 million bu. to 480 million bu. USDA pointed to reduced soybean crush and reduced demand for soybean meal.

“Now you have too much of everything,” Gulke says. “All this translated into corn going down 12 cents and beans are down are 24 cents after the report. The party is over for now.”

Looking forward, to see a dramatic increase in prices, a major crop production problem will have to surface in the U.S. or in South America.

“Fortunately we had a big crop to cover some of the downside in prices,” he says.

Listen to Jerry Gulke’s full commentary:

To Do: Price Grain Before Planting

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 16:08:03 GMT

Selling a crop that’s not yet in the ground can be intimidating. But if you don’t get a head start on pricing your crops, you might miss good marketing opportunities.

“The biggest single mistake farmers make is not selling more before planting,” says Matt Roberts, founder of The Kernmantle Group, an economics research and training firm. Historically, the best windows for pricing old- and new-crop corn and soybeans is in the spring.

In January and February, farmers could have sold new-crop corn in the $4-per-bushel range and soybeans in the $10-per-bushel range. “But you only get those prices if you actually sell it,” Roberts says.

Looking at the 2017/18 marketing year, soybeans could follow a similar pattern to the last marketing year, says Todd Hubbs, University of Illinois grain markets specialist. “The possibility of a strong downward price movement through 2018 is substantial, much like last year,” he notes.

Why? Prospects for soybean crops in Argentina and Brazil seem strong, despite some weather concerns. Soybean acres and production will likely increase in the U.S.—adding to already large soybean ending stocks. At 470 million bushels, the soybean ending stocks forecast is the largest since the 2006/07 marketing year.

“With so much production uncertainty in the U.S. and South America over the next few months, the current bids for 2018 harvest delivery provide an opportunity for locking in prices on new-crop soybeans,” Hubbs says.

Watch for opportunities to sell new-crop corn and wheat, as you might also see similar price movements as last year.

“Last year, they told you to sell the carry in corn, so you had to hedge,” says Angie Setzer, vice president for Citizens Grain. “If you’re looking at $3.90 December futures, for example, you can store and expect carry to put them at $4.15 to $4.20 futures. Spreads turn into cash and give you more opportunity. To hedge or get started around these levels is not a bad idea.”

For wheat, price prospects are dismal. “The bad news about wheat is there’s a lot of it out there,” Roberts says. “In the U.S., 50% of a year’s usage of wheat will be sitting in inventories when we start harvest in 2018.”

Yet, dry conditions in the southern Plains could present some good pricing windows for wheat. “There will be substantial marketing opportunity for wheat, but they don’t have to last a long time,” Setzer says. “They could just be a day or two so it’s important to have those orders in place.”

The supply-and-demand picture for corn, soybeans and wheat all point to being proactive about marketing grain early this year. Roberts suggests marketing 25% to 33% of your expected production before April 15. Then shoot to have 75% to 100% sold by harvest.

Sonja Begemann contributed to this story.

Hot Beef Sundae

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 18:44:12 GMT

By Missouri Beef Council

Hot Beef Sundae

Ingredients

1 pkg (17 oz) fully cooked beef tips with gravy
1 pkg (24 oz) prepared mashed potatoes
Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cherry or grape tomatoes

Method

Heat both beef tips and mashed potatoes according to package directions.
Using an ice cream scoop, place 2 scoops (about 1/3 cup each) of mashed potatoes in 4 individual sundae bowls.
Divide beef tips evenly over potatoes in each dish, repeat and top with sour cream and tomato to resemble the cherry!

Join Farmers Feeding the World in Making a Difference

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 18:44:12 GMT

Dear Farm Journal Reader:

When talking with farmers who just weathered the worst drought since 1956, I’m heartened by how many link the impact of the drought with their ability to feed the world. Being from Missouri, I’ve lived through several droughts. Memories of 1988 are the most vivid, but this is the first time I’ve heard farmers worry about a short crop putting the hungry at risk.

As the Editor of Farm Journal and President of the Farm Journal Foundation, which leads the nonprofit Farmers Feeding the World initiative, that connection provokes a bittersweet pride for how farmers are engaging in the fight to alleviate hunger, both here and abroad. Today, the average U.S. farmer feeds 155 people. That’s a far cry from the 26 people a single producer fed in 1960. Even so, more than 870 million people go to bed hungry every night—many of them children. At the same time, a growing information gap between the people who grow food and those who eat it is creating a general misunderstanding of agriculture.

Thanks to support from farmers like yourself, Farmers Feeding the World devotes philanthropic funds to tackle both problems by:

making sure food and, most importantly, the ability to grow food is in the hands of the hungry.
educating the public on the critical importance of modern agriculture and your freedom to operate.

In the past year, thanks to the generosity of hundreds of farmers, ranchers and friends of agriculture, Farmers Feeding the World has:

supported a $1 million donation to Heifer International to teach the hungry in the U.S. and abroad to feed themselves.
launched the inaugural HungerU Tour, visiting seven college campuses and the National FFA Convention this past fall. Made possible by support from DuPont Crop Protection, the Tour educated students, academia and all who eat about the pivotal role agriculture plays in feeding the world’s burgeoning population. Several stops included evening Food Forums as well.
provided funding for a $500,000 grant program that awarded up to $2,500 each to 140 FFA chapters. The partnership with the National FFA Organization was made possible with matching funds from the Howard G. Buffett Foundation. The FFA: Food For All grants gave chapters the incentive to start sustainable community hunger solutions, which created $14.70 in return for every $1 granted. The Checotah, Okla., chapter’s president was honored at the White House as a “Champion of Change.”
conducted advocacy and education efforts in Washington, D.C., including: face-to-face meetings with policymakers and power brokers such as House Speaker John Boehner and Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow; a Freshman Lawmaker Roundtable; an Ag Briefing with the Alliance to End Hunger; and the Farm Journal Forum.

Here’s a video overview of our work:

Learn more about our Milestone Year .

We are proud of the work that Farmers Feeding the World has done in 2012, and we are grateful for the generosity and support from friends like you, who have made it all possible. We need your continued donations to keep making a difference. Our commitment is that 100% of your donation goes straight to our non-profit mission.

Join the cause. Feed the hungry. Give now.

From the Farm Journal Foundation, we wish you and yours a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Charlene Finck
President

Funds Active Sellers of Corn and Beans Since Sept. 1

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 18:44:12 GMT

What Traders are Talking About:

* Fund selling continues in corn, beans. Funds sold another 13,000 contracts (65 million bu.) of corn and 4,000 contracts (20 million bu.) of soybeans Thursday. Since September 1, funds have sold a net 30,000 contracts (150 million bu.) of corn and 16,000 contracts (80 million bu.) of soybeans.

The long and short of it: As long as funds are active sellers, there’s more downside risk in corn and bean futures. But once funds flip the switch to “buy” again, it will become much easier for corn and soybean futures to strengthen.

* Chinese inflation eases, economic activity slows. China’s CPI slowed to a 6.2% over year-ago in August, down slightly from the 6.5% increase in July, which was a three-year high. Food price inflation at +13.4% accounted for 4 points of the overall inflation total. Pork prices rose “only” 45.5% in Aug. after surging. nearly 57% in July. China also announced second quarter GDP came in at 9.5%, down from 9.7% in the first quarter and 10.4% for all of 2010.

The long and short of it: The combination of slightly milder inflationary pressure and slowed economic activity suggests China is likely done with the monetary tightening.

* Macro focus on global economic slowdown. Finance ministers and central bankers from the G7 economic powers, along with International Monetary Fund chief Christine Lagarde, are meeting in Marseille, France, today with a focus on trying to stem the tide on the global economic slowdown. Yesterday, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) revised sharply down its growth forecasts for the rest of the year for G7 nations. OECD says U.S. growth is set to be much weaker than previously forecast at 1.1% in the third quarter and 0.4% in the fourth quarter, compared with forecasts of 2.9% and 3% at the end of May. Also yesterday, the European Central Bank shifted its stance and held interest rates rates steady at its policy meeting, saying inflation risks are no longer skewed to the upside and that economic growth in the region will be slow at best. That has many traders now expecting the ECB to cut rates by the end of the year.

The long and short of it: The global economic slowdown is a factor for grain and soy futures in that it could impact investor attitudes. And speculative money flow is still very important to price direction in grain and soy futures.

Follow me on Twitter: @BGrete

Need a speaker for a seminar or special event? Contact me: bgrete@profarmer.com

Grains Maintain This Week's Choppy Trading Range

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 18:44:12 GMT

Follow me on twitter @julijohnston

Overnight highlights.

Following are highlights of overnight trade and opening calls:

Corn: Marginally to 2 cents higher. To maintain this week’s choppy trading range, corn was firmer overnight. Strength in the U.S. dollar index limited buying, although traders don’t want to push corn too far to the downside ahead of Monday’s Crop Production Report. Traders fully expect USDA to lower the size of the crop, but have a sizable yield drop already priced in.

Soybeans: 5 to 7 cents higher. Futures benefited from short-covering overnight to maintain this week’s choppy range. Strength in the dollar limited buying, although focus in the market today will also be on position squaring ahead of Monday’s Crop Production Report. Like corn, traders expect USDA to trim the size of the crop due to declining crop condition ratings, but have a yield drop already factored into prices.

Wheat: Mixed. Futures have been in a follower’s role this week, but upside potential from slight strength in corn overnight was limited by dollar strength. Since U.S. wheat is not priced competitively on the global market, further dollar improvement raises concerns about how long lasting slowed wheat demand will be.

Live cattle: Steady to higher. Futures are expected to be higher this morning in reaction to the start of cash cattle trade at higher levels in Nebraska. Live cattle have posted technical improvement this week to signal a near-term low has been posted, which could help secure a high-range finish for the week. But with the U.S. stock market expected to be weaker, buying could be limited.

Lean Hogs: Steady to higher. Followthrough buying in lean hog futures today and a high-range close would signal a near-term low has been posted. Traders have brought nearby hogs back in line with the cash index and cash bids were mostly steady yesterday and could possibly firm today as packers say they still need to secure next week’s needs.

TechCrunch: Agtech Investment Jumps Threefold in 2017

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 04:17:24 GMT

Agtech startups have raised more than $320 million in 2017. That’s three times the amount raised over the same period in 2016.

So far, 23 agtech companies have received venture capital funding in 2017, Farmer’s Business Network topped the list, with $40 million in early March. Other companies receiving high levels of funding include Inocucor and Abundant Robotics, receiving $28.9 million and $10 million, respectively.

Crunchbase has identified just nine investors that explicitly fund agricultural ventures. But according to TechCrunch , the agtech sector is becoming more approachable, and investors of all kinds are increasingly more open to investing in agricultural technology. Previously, it was more common for biomedical or other adjacent industries to invest in agtech.

Even though both the startup and the investor side of agtech are growing, Techcrunch also notes that many of these companies are in the early stages of development and investment - likely a long way from turning a profit for investors or becoming publicly traded. The last notable time a venture capital-backed agtech company was acquired for a large profit was in 2013, when The Climate Corporation was purchased by Monsanto for $930 million.

Current mergers among the biggest agribusinesses, coupled with the early stage in which many agtech startups find themselves, means there likely won’t be another major purchase anytime soon. but as companies like Farmer’s Business Network mature, they will also become more attractive to the big players. And as mergers fall or finish, these agtech disruptors may be the next place for big agriculture companies to seek major growth.

Did Your Wheat Survive the Cold?

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 07:43:26 GMT

Frigid temperatures mean more than just bundling up. For many farmers, it could mean their wheat crop has taken a hit. While there’s been some respite between cold snaps, they still could have caused damage.

“As far as hard red winter wheat, [damage] is a concern in the Plains,” said Kyle Tapley, senior agricultural meteorologist with Radiant Solutions. “We think about a quarter of the crop saw some damage or at least temperatures were cold enough to cause some damage across about a quarter for the Belt, mainly in Kansas but also across parts of eastern Colorado and far northwestern Oklahoma.”

If temperatures stay below zero for days at a time, survivability drops, says Phil Needham, Farm Journal high-yield wheat expert.

“Wait until wheat comes out of dormancy to check for survival, but if you’re getting impatient you can go out now with a hammer or a pick and excavate a handful of wheat with roots and soil,” Needham explains. “Put it in the house for a week or two and see if it greens back up.”

Even if you try the inside test it might not be a true representation of your fields as various zones endure cold in different ways—make sure you scout to ground truth.

Be extra mindful of the possibility of winterkill in the following conditions, Needham says:

Little to no snow cover during the cold temperatures. Remember, taller residue often helps retain more snow cover.
Some varieties perform better than others in cold weather as a result of breeding. Check the winter hardiness or lack thereof in your varieties.
In late-planted fields, the plant won’t reach a sustainable level of growth before going dormant, which makes it more susceptible to the cold.
Fields or areas with greater levels of surface residue are more exposed to the cold. Because seeds are often more shallow or caught in residue, roots don’t reach “safe” depths.
Shallow-planted fields will have more kill because the cold can reach root crowns faster and easier.
Dry fields have less insulation.
If you didn’t apply phosphorus at planting, wheat is at greater risk of death as the nutrient helps improve root mass, plant health and hardiness.
When the seed furrow didn’t completely close (because it was too dry or wet at planting), the exposed row will be more likely to be damaged, especially without snow cover.

Winterkill likely won’t be uniform across fields, so it’s important to scout in several areas—especially where you know there could be differences in how the seeds were planted.

“To make a good assessment of a field, take stand counts,” Needham says. “If there are many areas where the stand has been wiped out, decide if you want to tear up the field or not.”

In some cases you can spot plant, such as 5 acres with no stand in a 100-acre field. However, if a considerable portion of your field drops below 100 plants per yard it might be beneficial to rip up the stand, especially if there are pockets throughout the field. Needham suggests using a drone, if you have one, to check for dead areas, which will appear brown.

Areas with snowfall will be in better luck because the snow insulates the crop. Kansas and parts of Colorado and Oklahoma, which received little to no snowfall, need to be especially diligent when scouting after greenup.

“From mid-December to mid-February, Kansas wheat is at its maximum tolerance for cold temperatures,” says Marsha Boswell, director of communications, Kansas Wheat Commission. “However, winter injury is affected by several things. Time will tell in the coming months.”

12 Days of Top Producer Seminar: Practical Succession Planning

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 06:23:35 GMT

As the holidays approach, families often spend more time thinking about their succession plan. While the Christmas dinner table isn’t the place to discuss succession planning, Top Producer Seminar is! On January 25, Polly Dobbs, a lawyer with Dobbs Legal Group and Farm Journal Legacy Council Advisor will present a breakout session at the 2018 Top Producer Seminar on practical tips for succession planning.

[Register for the 2018 Top Producer Seminar now!]

Here are three things Dobbs says all farmers should consider in 2018:

1. If you don’t have a successor, do you want to find one, or is a machinery auction your plan for retirement or after death, with spouse and kids splitting the net after taxes? “Many programs are available to match young farmers with mentors who are nearing retirement with no related successors who like the idea of grooming a young farmer who buys into operations over time, or following death,” she says.

2. If you do have a successor, related or not, take steps to protect access to your land by your successor in operations. “Your spouse and kids can be landlords, who are contractually obligated to lease your land to your successor in operations on terms you’ve defined as being reasonable and fair,” she says. “Don’t let the land get sold out from underneath the operator, and you may not want to force the successor in operations to buy the family land, if access thereto is sufficient. You need to draw the road map; don’t make them figure it out on their own.”

3. Ask all your landlords for a first right to purchase their land. “You know which landlords have eager heirs waiting to put the farm up for auction before the landlord is even cold in the ground,” she says. “Many of those landlords have verbally indicated they want you to have buy their land. When it comes to real property, contracts must be in writing, oral promises don’t stand up. Get that first right in writing, with details about the purchase price the landlord deems fair, and record it. Then after the landlord’s death, you have a contractual right to purchase the land, and won’t have to show up at an auction to bid on land that’s an important base to your operations.”

Dobbs’ session will occur during the 9:10 a.m. and 10:10 a.m. breakout sessions on Thursday.

Attend 2018 Top Producer Seminar

When: Jan. 23–26

Where: Hilton Chicago Hotel Downtown, 720 S. Michigan Ave.

What: Welcome reception on Tuesday, Jan. 24 with Trust In Food Symposium attendees; business education and Top Producer of the Year banquet on Wednesday, Jan. 25; “U.S. Farm Report” taping and business education with lunch keynote on Thursday, Jan. 26; and sponsor breakfast followed by two mainstage presentations on the global ag economy and event wrap-up at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 27

More Info: To register for the seminar or for additional information, visit TopProducerSeminar.com.

Thanks to our 2018 Top Producer Seminar sponsors:

Premier Level: Agrium (ESN), BASF, Bayer, Beck’s Hybrids, Case IH, Channel, DOW AgroSciences, John Deere, KCOE ISOM, DuPont Pioneer, Top Third Ag Marketing, Valent Co-Sponsors: CliftonLarsonAllen, Rabo AgriFinance Supporting Level: Advance Trading, BMO Harris, Transition Point Business Advisors

Hot New Iron (2010)

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 04:14:20 GMT

One year brings introductions of new machines for work all across the farmstead. Tractors, harvesting machines, application equipment and implements are being outfitted to meet the changing demands of farming. Here’s a quick overview of the wide range of new models introduced in 2009.

Midsized muscle. This past year brought introductions of row-crop tractors and larger utility tractors from many manufacturers.

AGCO Corporation launched new tractors for its three brands: AGCO, Challenger and Massey Ferguson. The AGCO DT, Challenger MT600C and Massey Ferguson 8600 Series range from 205 PTO hp to 275 PTO hp. These tractors are the first models to be powered by engines using selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. This engine design, which requires a urea additive for operation, is the platform AGCO will use to meet current and upcoming emission regulations.

Case IH added a model and a transmission option to its Magnum Series tractors. Outfitting the tractors with Case IH’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) provides increased efficiency through a drivetrain that combines the stepless speed variability of a hydrostatic transmission with the mechanical efficiency of a traditional gear-on-gear transmission. The latest model addition is the Magnum 225 with 195 PTO hp.

Extending its availability in the U.S., JCB introduced the 7000 Series. This three-model lineup includes 147 PTO hp, 168 PTO hp and 190 PTO hp tractors. All are geared with P-Tronic transmissions, feature transport speeds up to 42 mph and have anti-lock braking systems for all four wheels.

John Deere unveiled its 8R Series, which includes the 345-engine-hp 8345R, the most powerful row-crop tractor John Deere has ever built. Along with the six-wheel models, there are three 8RT tracked models outfitted with the AirCushion suspension system. John Deere also added the 7530 Premium tractor, with 153 PTO hp, to the 7030 Series.

The Kubota M Series Deluxe tractors are powered by four-cylinder Kubota engines, and the series ranges from 85 PTO hp to 118 PTO hp.

The M135X is Kubota’s most powerful M Series tractor yet.

McCormick added a trio of TTX Series tractors, with models ranging from 173 PTO hp to 193 PTO hp.

TTX models are full-frame tractors that also feature a 55° steering angle for better maneuverability.

New Holland introduced the next generation of T7000 Series tractors. This series, ranging from 135 PTO hp to 195 PTO hp, can be geared with the Auto Command continuously variable transmission and feature the SideWinder II control armrest.

Matched for capacity. Whether harvesting row crops or silage, self-propelled machines and the headers paired with them are being designed for more productive harvests.

Case IH 3400 Series corn heads are available in a 16-row, 30" configuration and an 18-row, 20" configuration. These corn heads feature point-to-point pinching-style stalk rolls for residue management. The 2600 Series chopping corn heads are available in 6-, 8- and 12-row sizes and feature new improvements for durability and gentle handling.

Claas extended its Orbis silage corn head to a 30' working width with the Orbis 900. Large drums on the end transport crop to the center of the head and create a windrow effect for the crop to enter the forage harvester, resulting in higher chop quality and increased fuel efficiency.

The Gleaner 9250 DynaFlex header from AGCO is available in 30', 35' and 40' widths. Its flexible cutterbar design is built with tilt arms that are evenly spaced every 30" and sectioned float pads on the cutterbar. The independent tilt arms provide an 8" range of travel.

The 800-hp John Deere 7950 self-propelled forage harvester (SPFH) is the most powerful forage harvester the company has built to date. The 7050 Series of forage harvesters range from 375 hp to 800 hp and can be paired with the new 770 SPFH corn head and 600C Series pickup heads.

Extending its capabilities, MacDon introduced the FD70 FlexDraper to harvest soybeans, edible beans and cereal crops. The 45' header matches or exceeds the harvesting capacities of Class 9 combines. The FD70 has a three-section flex frame, which allows the header to retain a consistently close relationship between the knife and the reel.

The New Holland CR9065 combine provides more power in a smaller-sized machine. The CR9065 has the same frame and 17" twin rotors as the CR9060 model but is outfitted with the engine used in New Holland’s larger-frame CR9070 model. New Holland’s latest rotary combine model, the CR9090, boasts 544 hp at rated engine speed with a maximum harvest power of 591 hp available and a grain tank capacity of 355 bu.

Oxbo International introduced the 50 Series corn head, its first harvesting head for field corn producers. Using a system the company has developed for seed corn harvesting, Oxbo designed the 50 Series corn heads with its Soft Touch technology, focusing on gentle, efficient ear removal. The 50 Series is available in sizes ranging from 6-row to 14-row with 30" spacing and limited configurations in 20" spacing.

Ready for the field. Smarter and more efficient self-propelled sprayers are reaching out to farmers and custom applicators alike.

Case IH extended its offerings with the Patriot 3230, rated at 220 hp with an 800-gal. tank.

John Deere replaced the 6700 sprayer with the 4630 sprayer. This machine can be built with a narrow (72" to 88") or wide (90" to 120") axle configuration to match a variety of row spacings. John Deere also provides owners of model year 2008–2009 sprayers a high-clearance sprayer bundle to allow fungicide application at tassel.

Miller St. Nazianz expanded the G Series Condor sprayers with the G40 and the G75. For the first time since Miller acquired the technology, the Spray-Air air boom system can be added to the G40 sprayer up to 103' wide and is available in a dual-fan configuration up to 120' wide on the G75. Building upon the Nitro 4000 lineup, Miller introduced the Nitro HT models to increase performance on steep hills and power through other challenging field conditions where higher torque requirements are necessary.

The five models in the new RoGator lineup from AGCO feature increased horsepower and greater capacity with 900-gal., 1,100-gal. and 1,300-gal. liquid systems. A redesigned front entry with fold-down ladder provides easier access to the six-post cab.

Sights on seed. Planters and air drills are getting bigger to cover acres faster. There’s no doubt about that as companies are introducing large machines that make a big statement.

The Case IH Precision Hoe 800 air hoe drill is outfitted with two new patented features for precision seed and fertilizer placement—a parallel link row unit and an angled, double-shoot knife opener. Case IH also introduced extensions to its 1260 Early Riser planter lineup with new configurations. The 36-row model is available in 20", 22" and 30" rows, and the 32-row planter has 30" rows. Thanks to a new front-fold design, the 1260 transports as narrow as 13'8", while the new steerable rear axle option helps the 1260 follow the same path as the tractor during turns.

John Deere introduced the largest planter available today, the DB120. With a 120' toolbar, the 48-row implement can plant more than 75 acres an hour. For unique planter configurations, John Deere and Orthman Manufacturing will co-produce custom-built planter configurations. John Deere also expanded its lineup of 1910 Commodity Carts with the addition of two larger models—a two-tank 350-bu. and a three-tank 430-bu. tow-between cart configuration.

Kinze Manufacturing expanded its offerings with the Air Seed Delivery system to 3660 ASD Twin-Line planters and 3800 ASD models. Also, 12- and 16-row 3660 Twin-Line planters can be equipped with two-section manual half-width disconnect of right and left sections from the tractor cab.

For the first time, Landoll introduced a full line of grain drills. Designed for use in conventional to no-till conditions, the drill has a planter-style seed tube for seed delivery to the bottom of the trench. The 5530 Series is available in 30' and 40' widths, 7½" or 10" spacings and a dry fertilizer option.

With durability and innovation reflective of its Flexi-Coil heritage, New Holland’s P2070 precision air hoe drill provides the ultimate in precision seed placement with adjustable individual opener depth control. It works up to 70' wide, yet folds into a compact, narrow package for transport.

Set the soil. Tillage equipment is designed to meet today’s residue management challenges and field conditions to set the scene for planting.

Brillion builds on its Soil Builder II coulter chisel, offering the Folding Soil Builder II. The folding 17- and 21-shank models features an increased working width up to 26' and a narrow transport width of 15'4".

Case IH extended its tillage lineup with four new sizes. The True-Tandem 330 Turbo vertical tillage unit is available in a 42'5", five-section model. The Ecolo-Tiger 870 disk ripper now features a 26' working width. The True-Tandem 370 disk harrow has two five-section models: 42'4" and 46'7".

Krause is replacing its 5630 field cultivator with the new 5635 model. Working sizes range from 20' to 50'. This tillage equipment provides uniform cultivation with the Split the Middle Sweep pattern.

When designing the 7430 VT Plus tillage tool, Landoll sought to build a vertical tillage machine that could anchor residue, have shallow working depths, mix more soil, provide better weed kill across the machine and have the ability to level small ruts. With the gangs set at 10°, the angle combined with the ultrashallow concavity blades provides the lateral movement of soil. The VT Plus is available in 23' to 33' working widths.

Entering the strip-till market, Sunflower from AGCO Corporation introduced the 8-row and 12-row 7600 Series strip-till system. It features a 7"x73⁄8" wall toolbar designed with a 10" range of vertical travel, adjustable dual down-pressure springs and
shearbolt-protected shank assemblies.

Bring on farm chores. Utility vehicles and ATVs are growing in popularity, and model year 2010 vehicles from Arctic Cat, Honda, Kawasaki and others offer new work-centric features.

Case IH reintroduced the Scout brand name with a lineup of four-wheel-drive utility vehicles. The Scout is available in two-passenger and four-passenger models, powered by diesel or gas engines.

The New Holland Rustler utility vehicle provides total vehicle capacity of 900 lb. to 1,600 lb. Rustler utility vehicles are equipped with independent front and rear suspension and a wide variety of factory- and dealer-installed options and accessories.

Polaris gave its 2010 lineup of Ranger utility vehicles and Sportsman ATVs rugged features for work outdoors.

With the addition of 2010 models, Yamaha Motor has 17 ATVs in its lineup, including updates to the Grizzly Big Bear models.

The Kubota RTV 1140 CPX is a utility workhorse that can adjust for the number of people on the job. The back bench seat can be used for passengers or to extend the cargo bed.

You can e-mail Margy Fischer at mfischer@farmjournal.com .

Ford F-150 Named No. 1 Most-American Made Auto

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 04:14:01 GMT

Ford Motor Co.’s F-150 pickup, pacing the biggest gain in U.S. market share among automakers this year, topped a consumer website’s list of most-American made models, replacing Toyota Motor Corp.’s Camry sedan.

The F-150 snapped a four-year streak for the Camry and earned the No. 1 spot in Cars.com ’s 2013 American-Made index, the website said today in an e-mailed statement. The index ranks model lines based on their sales and whether car or truck parts and completed vehicles are built in the U.S.

Ford’s F-Series trucks have propelled the biggest U.S. sales increase among major automakers this year, climbing 22 percent through the end of May. The automaker said last month that it’s adding 2,000 workers and a third shift at its F-150 factory in Missouri to increase pickup production beginning in the third quarter. The F-150 also is assembled at a plant in Dearborn, Mich., where the company is based.

“Ford’s top ranking this year is a good indicator of how pickup trucks are dominating auto sales so far in 2013, and how the domestic automakers are bouncing back,” Patrick Olsen, Cars.com’s editor-in-chief, said in the statement.

While the assembly point and domestic parts content of the F-150 didn’t change from 2012 to 2013, vehicle sales are responsible for bumping the F-150 to the top spot, Olsen said.

The Camry, which ranked second in the index, is assembled at plants in Kentucky and Indiana. Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd., 17 percent owned by Toyota, produces the Indiana-made Camrys.

Automakers and lobbying groups such as the American Automotive Policy Council have criticized the index in the past for using criteria that resulted in Toyota City, Japan-based Toyota placing first in its study.

Index Methodology

“The Cars.com methodology would be more accurate if it accounted for such factors as vehicle assembly, company headquarters, and research and development locations, all important factors in keeping American auto communities vibrant,” Matt Blunt, president of the Washington-based group, said in an e-mailed statement.

Ford light vehicle deliveries climbed 13% this year through May to 1.05 million, according to Autodata Corp. The automaker boosted its market share by 0.8 percentage point during that span to 16.4 percent, the Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey-based researcher said in an e-mailed statement.

Toyota’s Tundra was the only other pickup to make the American-Made index, holding steady year-to-year to rank seventh. The F-150 previously held the top spot on the list from 2006 to 2008.

Evenly Split

The top 10 was evenly split between domestic and foreign- owned brands. Toyota had the most models on the index’s list, taking four spots, while General Motors Co. took three and Ford, Honda Motor Co. and Chrysler Group LLC each took one place.

Cars.com is owned by Classified Ventures LLC, which also operates Apartments.com., another consumer shopping site.

Ford shares gained 1.6 percent to $14.91 at 10:55 a.m. New York time while American depositary receipts of Toyota City, Japan-based Toyota rose 0.8 percent to $117.48. Ford increased 13 percent this year through yesterday while Toyota’s ADRs surged 25 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 10 percent during that time.

Pete's Pick Of The Week: 1970 Chevy C10

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 04:13:49 GMT

This 1970 Chevy C10 pickup sold for $9,500 yesterday on a southeast Georgia consignment auction.

Shop these pickups for sale today on MachineryPete.com

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Low Hours Equals Big Dollars

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 04:13:45 GMT

An amazing trend with used farm equipment has been unleashed here in 2018. An absolute ocean of super low-hour used farm equipment has hit the auction block—the most I’ve seen in my almost 29 years of tracking auction price data.

On Sept. 7, we filmed a farm retirement auction in Woonsocket, S.D., for Machinery Pete TV. Here are a few of the highlights from this auction for Morris and LaVonne Brosnan:

• 2012 John Deere S550 combine, 95.2 separator hours, $184,000.

• 2011 John Deere 9330 4WD, 361 hours, $173,000.

• 2010 John Deere 7830 tractor, 254 hours, $144,000.

• 1972 John Deere 2520 diesel, 2,546 original hours, $27,000.

• 2010 Freightliner Business Class M2 Day Cab truck, 7,550 miles, $67,000.

Why the low hours? Morris told me they actually retired years ago but weren’t sure if their sons wanted to come home and farm.

Also, on Sept. 7, at a farm auction in Walcott, Iowa, a 2013 Bobcat S175 skid steer with 91 hours sold for $26,000 (second-highest auction price ever on S175). A 2006 John Deere 7820 tractor with 2,017 hours sold for $69,000 at the same sale.

Still more from Sept. 7, a 1999 White 8710 tractor with one owner and 1,998 hours sold for $64,000 at a farm auction in Lake Crystal, Minn.

On Sept. 8, at a farm auction in Gaylord, Minn., a Case IH Magnum 245 tractor with 1,002 hours sold for $95,500 (the highest price for that model in five years).

This trend of low-hour equipment has been for late models, as well as older used farm equipment.

At an Aug. 22 farm auction in Montevideo, Minn., a 1997 John Deere 8300 tractor with 868 hours sold for $95,000, making it the highest auction sale price on a John Deere 8300 in five years. The same auction saw a 2010 John Deere 9670 STS combine with 469 engine hours go for $158,000 (no heads), the second-highest auction price on a 9670 in four years.

Our trend of super low-hour equipment has even applied to much older farm equipment. On Sept. 1, at a farm auction in Grand Island, Neb., a 1975 John Deere 4400 combine with only 480 actual hours, sold for a record-high price of $13,000. This same auction saw a 1977 John Deere 4230 tractor with a mere 1,975 hours sell for $26,300. That is the highest auction price on a 4230 in three years.

Behind The Trend. So why is all this low-hour equipment selling in 2018? Part of the answer we addressed in my last column. Since mid-2015, I’ve seen a 50% jump in the number of machinery auctions versus the prosperous ag period from 2007 to 2012.

But there’s more to it than that. Note where the recent auctions took place: South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan and Nebraska. All Midwest.

Now consider the volume of new and used farm equipment purchased during that strong ag period from 2007 into early 2013. Tons.

Most of it was bought to be used, but no doubt a lot of purchases were to use the IRS Section 179 tax write off. Buy it, write it off and hold it. That wasn’t such a bad idea considering the recent age of zero to 1% bank savings rates.

Remember that 1997 John Deere 8300 tractor with 868 hours sold for $95,000 on Aug. 22 in Montevideo, Minn.? Back in 2000, in the same state of Minnesota, a pair of John Deere 8300s in excellent condition with 800 and 960 hours sold for $67,500 and $72,500 on pair of farm auctions. Wow.

For more insights and photos from the auction in Montevideo, Minn., read Greg’s blog at bit.ly/MontevideoMN

Greg Peterson is the most trusted name in farm equipment. Since 1989, he has worked with a network of 1,000 auction companies to track used equipment prices. His website, MachineryPete.com, features equipment listings from dealers and equipment for sale at upcoming auctions.

2019 Ram Pulls Ahead

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 04:13:45 GMT

New look, new frame, bigger yet lighter cab, longer wheelbase, enhanced steering and handling, quieter and more fuel efficient all describe the new Ram 1500. A 12" touch screen will likely be the most talked about feature, though.

The 5.7-liter Hemi is basically the same as 2018 models with 395 hp and 410 lb.-ft. of torque. The other engine option is the 3.6-liter V6 Pentastar with a mild hybrid eTorque alternator replacement producing 305 hp and 269 lb.-ft. of torque.

The transmission is again an eight speed but features revised electronics for economy and smoother shifts. The shifting knob is still there, but all the controls are around the knob in the dash, making 4x4, axle lock and hill descent buttons easier to use. A new forward-facing air intake system includes a hydrocarbon adsorption
filter that lasts the life of the truck with no maintenance.

The crew cab is 4" longer. The rear seat reclines 8°, and the seat bottom slides with it. The bed is 1.5" deeper with a one-piece, reinforced U-shaped tube framed around the tailgate opening. An adaptive front lighting system includes twin bi-functional projector headlamps, fog lamps and tail lamps. Headlights on high-end models move 15° when turning.

The 2019 model payload is up to 2,300 lb. and trailer towing is up to 12,750 lb. with new progressive rear coils for less sag under load. Thanks to an aluminum hood, tailgate, transmission and engine cross-members, the truck is 225 lb. lighter.

Adaptive cruise control with a trailer allows the truck to lock in a speed and adjust to a vehicle speed in front of you and brakes your trailer when it slows you down. A blind spot detection monitors when you are trailering, measures the trailer length and alerts you when someone is passing clear back at the end of the trailer.

The improved aerodynamic design increases fuel efficiency and makes for a quieter cab. All-new frequency response damping shocks improve the ride and handling.

Front brakes are larger at 14.9" and rear brakes at 14.8". The new electric parking brake saves weight, improves reliability and is part of a safety system that brakes when it detects you’re backing into an object. Equalizing truck brakes improve braking with a trailer.

A 360° surround view camera helps you see all around the truck. ParkSense parallel/perpendicular park and hill-start assist with ultrasonic sensors are reminiscent of a luxury car.

More 2019 Trucks to Come

Ford’s new F-150 diesel will debut in second quarter 2018 and the Ranger is coming back, after being off the market since 2011, in early 2019. Jeep’s new midsize truck, with a diesel engine option, will join the growing segment in 2019. Later this year, you’ll start seeing the 2019 Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra.

By Kent Sundling

Machinery Pete: Appreciate a Tractor's Age

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 03:51:02 GMT

What happened with used farm equipment values in 2017?

To answer that question, we’re going to look at auction price data on the John Deere 4440 tractor. The iconic 130 hp tractor was made from 1978 to 1982. It’s hard to believe, but that model is 35 to 40 years old. Now I feel old.

In 2017, the average auction price on John Deere 4440s was $17,254. That was down 6.3% from the prior year’s average auction price of $18,410. In 2016, the average auction price on John Deere 4440s fell 7.4% which was preceded by a 6.4% drop in the average auction price in 2015. As you can see, John Deere 4440 values have been steadily decreasing since 2014.

Now, you might say, “Of course, John Deere 4440 values have been dropping, Pete—all tractor models depreciate in value as they age.”

Well, you’re wrong. The auction price data I’ve been compiling now for more than 28 years proves my point. In fact, from 2004 through 2014, a span of 11 calendar years, the average auction price on John Deere 4440 tractors remained remarkably steady—in the $19,181 to $21,550 range 10 out of 11 of those years.

But since 2014, the average auction price has been dropping each year. Of course, this coincides with commodity prices dropping sharply from their lofty levels in spring 2013.

One of the key drivers of the decreasing value of John Deere 4440s has been the sharp increase in the number up for sale at auctions during the past few years. In 2015, the number of John Deere 4440s that sold at auction increased 32.3%, followed by a 37.2% increase in 2016. We saw more John Deere 4440s on the auction block in 2017 as well.

Economic theory 101 is at work: An increase in supply results in falling demand.

However, that theory is only true to a point. As commodity prices continue to struggle, buyer demand for used equipment in tip-top condition has actually ramped up. It makes sense if you think about it. Sales of new equipment have understandably slowed, which has shifted more buyer demand to the used market, with a pointed focus on equipment in the best condition.

Hence the five John Deere 4440s you see in the table below that sold for $30,000 or more at auction in 2017. Receiving the highest price at $37,000 was a 1982 model with 3,030 original, one-owner hours that sold at a Dec. 8 consignment auction in northeast Missouri hosted by Ed’s Machinery ( www.edsmachinery.com ).

It’s also interesting to note from December 2016 to March 2017, we saw a 20% uptick in searches for John Deere 4440s for sale by dealers across the country at MachineryPete.com .

Note the wide spread in geography of the top 20 auction prices on John Deere 4440s sold without loaders in the table below, from Washington to Kentucky to Pennsylvania. Again, the simple truth is the competition for buyers to acquire used John Deere 4440s in the very best condition and with low hours can be intense. I see this trend across all types of used equipment, which folks find especially surprising when it comes to large, late-model used equipment.

For example a 2016 John Deere DB66 36R-22 planter with 7,000 acres sold for $224,000 on a Dec. 29, 2017, farm auction in northeast South Dakota, a sale hosted by the Steffes Group ( www.steffesgroup.com ). A quick peek at planters for sale on our Machinery Pete website turns up a 2016 John Deere DB66 36R-22 available at Valley Plains Equipment in Jamestown, N.D., for $232,500. There is a very narrow price gap between the “hard cash” auction price and the dealer advertised price.

When times are tough, emphasis shifts to used.

Back to John Deere 4440s. In researching this column, I dusted off a stack of old “F.A.C.T. Reports,” auction price books I began publishing in November 1989. The internet wasn’t a thing back then, let alone social media or cellphones. All our phones had cords into the wall. Anyway, in my first full year of compiling auction data, 1990, John Deere 4440 tractors sold for an average price of $22,071, with a high price of $29,800 and a low price of $16,500.

Twenty seven years ago, not a single John Deere 4440 brought $30,000 or higher at auction. In 2017, a down year by 6.3% from the average price, five sold for $30,000 or more.

I’d say John Deere 4440s are aging pretty darn well.

Top Auction Prices on John Deere 4440s in 2017

© MachineryPete.com

Pete's Pick of the Week: 1991 John Deere 4455 In Missouri

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 03:51:02 GMT

This 1991 John Deere 4455 2WD with 3,826 hours sold for $52,000 on a central Missouri farm auction this Tuesday. Here’s video .

Click here to search more than two dozen John Deere 4455 tractors on MachineryPete.com

Thanks for registering for Farm Journal Mobile. I agree to receive text messages, telemarketing messages or prerecorded voice calls delivered using an automatic telephone dialing system. These messages will occasionally be accompanied by marketing messages sent on behalf of carefully selected sponsors that serve the agricultural industry. Consent is not required for purchase of Farm Journal products. Carrier message & data rates may apply. More than one message may be delivered weekly. You may call 866-376-6094 for more information. To cancel, text “STOP PETE”. Text “HELP PETE” for help.

Pete's Pick of the Week: Spirit of '76 Tractor

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 03:51:02 GMT

This 1976 J.I. Case 1570 “Spirit of 76" from Indiana sold for $17,250 Wednesday on a Bigiron.com online auction. More here.

Search classic J.I. Case tractors for sale on MachineryPete.com

Thanks for registering for Farm Journal Mobile. I agree to receive text messages, telemarketing messages or prerecorded voice calls delivered using an automatic telephone dialing system. These messages will occasionally be accompanied by marketing messages sent on behalf of carefully selected sponsors that serve the agricultural industry. Consent is not required for purchase of Farm Journal products. Carrier message & data rates may apply. More than one message may be delivered weekly. You may call 866-376-6094 for more information. To cancel, text “STOP PETE”. Text “HELP PETE” for help.

Set Gauge Wheels Properly

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 02:53:02 GMT

Before you pull your planter to the field, spend some time in the shop ensuring your gauge wheels are properly set.

“You want true contact with the disk opener,” Bauer says. “To test this, lift up the gauge wheel and when you let go, you should hear it rub down the disk.”
She says that if there’s a gap between the gauge wheel and disk opener, then the wheel will move back and forth. That gap could be large enough to allow soil to gather inside the wheel.
“Then as you move through the field, that dry dirt will be dropped in the seed trench and can cause problems with emergence,” Bauer explains.
Learn more in this episode of Corn College TV:

Great Plains Extends Drill, Planter and Tillage Lineups

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 02:45:48 GMT

The Turbo-Chopper is a vertical-tillage tool that builds on the Turbo-Till concept; the second row of Turbo coulters is switched out and replaced by Turbo-Chopper gangs.

It took 26 semi-truckloads to show all of Great Plains Manufacturing’s new equipment at its national dealer meeting near Kansas City. In all, the machines on display featured 622 row units and 544 Turbo coulters.

The new lineup includes two drills. The Model 3007HD air drill has a 30' planting width and folds to just 10' for transport. The HD in the model name stands for heavy duty, which is backed by the 07HD Series openers. The two 100-bu. hoppers carry a total of 200 bu. of seed or a combination of seed and dry fertilizer.

Another addition to the company’s heavy-duty drills is the DF4010HD no-till drill. This 40' drill features the 10HD openers. The 3.2-bu.-per-foot seedbox comes with the standard configuration of 60% seed/40% dry fertilizer split, but it can also be ordered in 68/32, 55/45 and 100% seed configurations. Row spacing options include 7½" or 10". The machine folds to just under 15' for transport.

The YP40 is the most versatile planter the company has ever offered. This Yield-Pro planter is available with a choice of three openers and seven row spacings. Seed hopper options include the platform for a seed company bulk box, an 82-bu. bulk hopper and a 150-bu. bulk hopper. Operators have the option to pull a 1,600-gal. cart or a 1,600-gal. plus 400-gal. cart for starter and/or high-rate fertilizer. The floating hitch and a wing flex of 20° up and 20° down allows this versatile machine to handle versatile terrain.

Great Plains also adds two vertical-tillage tools to its lineup. The Turbo- Chopper provides a crisscross pattern of worked ground as the front row of 20" Turbo coulters on 10" spacings is followed by gangs of reels, which have a unique spiral design to minimize vibration. The perpendicular action handles tough residue and breaks up root balls. The Turbo-Chopper is available in a 15'6" rigid frame or in folding units ranging from 18' to 40'6" working widths.

The 5000 Series Turbo-Chisel is the Great Plains version of a coulter chisel. The front gang of 22" Turbo coulters are on 7½" spacings. Units can be equipped with either standard chisel shanks or a front row of parabolic shanks followed by either parabolic shanks or standard chisel shanks. There are 10 rigid and folding models that range in working width from 11'3" to 28'9". Working depth is up to 12". Rear attachment options are chopper reel gangs or buster bars.

No-till drills go heavy-duty with the Great Plains DF4010HD model, which boasts a 40' seeding width.

The YP40 planter provides versatility with a choice of three openers and seven row spacing configurations.

For more information, visit a Great Plains dealer or contact Great Plains Manufacturing, P.O. Box 5060, Salina, KS 67401; (785) 823-3276; or log on to www.greatplainsmfg.com .

You can e-mail Margy Fischer at mfischer@farmjournal.com .

Overcome Soil Density Setbacks

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 02:45:36 GMT

Do you suspect yield-robbing soil compaction problems in your fields? Join Farm Journal Field Agronomists Ken Ferrie and Missy Bauer to learn the Systems Approach to farming with its foundation set on a solid understanding of soil density.
The Farm Journal Corn College “Classic” session provides practical, hands-on training to help corn growers advance their production skills, increase yields and improve their profitability.
Thursday and Friday, July 21 to 22; two-day session for farmers. Click here to register
This event is located at the Corn College campus, near Bloomington, Ill.
General Sessions and Breakout Sessions include:
· Dig to Identify Soil Density
· Soil Density Demonstrations
· In-Field Diagnostics
· Make Variable Rate Work
· The Importance of Water
· Understand the Risks of Farm Transportation
· ABCs of Sulfur and Micronutrients
· Identify and Manage Micronutrients
· Make Your Water Work for You
Click here to register (no site registration will be accepted)

New Disc Tillage Tools Are Designed To Run At 8-12 MPH

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 02:45:09 GMT

If you feel the need for speed during tillage, you’re in luck. Kinze Manufacturing announced today that it is bringing four high-speed disc tillage models to market that are designed to function at 8 mph to 12 mph. The models are branded as Mach Till 201, 261, 331 and 401.

Features of the new tools include simple setup and ease of use, maintenance-free parts and the ability to perform in various soil types, from fall primary tillage and residue management to spring secondary tillage and seedbed preparation. The tools are built heavy for high speed and deep working depth, but provide great flotation for lighter seedbed preparation that minimizes soil compaction, according to a company news release.

The new product line is based on a Canadian design, produced by Degelman Industries, that has been licensed to Kinze to build at its manufacturing facility in Williamsburg, Iowa.

Farmers can get a look at the Mach Till 331, shown below, at the Kinze booth during the upcoming National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Ky.

John Deere Upgrades Capabilities for Generation 4 Displays

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 02:45:09 GMT

John Deere introduces three new AutoTrac applications and a new in-field data sharing application for its Generation 4 displays. AutoTrac Turn Automation, AutoTrac Implement Guidance, AutoTrac Vision for tractors and In-Field Data Sharing applications are being sold as bundled activations for the John Deere 4600 CommandCenter and as bundled subscriptions for 4640 Universal Displays.

AutoTrac Turn Automation makes end turns smooth, consistent and comfortable during tillage and planting when using straight-track guidance modes. The new application provides automation across the field rather than just between headlands. When activated, the machine functions previously required at the end of the field, when operating drawn implements, no longer require user input. “For example, making end turns, raising and lowering the implement, PTO control, three-point hitch functions and speed can be established in sequences from one setup page to become automated,” explains John Mishler, precision agriculture product marketing manager with John Deere.

AutoTrac Implement Guidance enables the tractor to move off the intended path or guidance line to achieve expected accuracy of the implement. The application is ideal for first-pass tillage, planting and strip till when using straight- or curve-tracking modes and when operating on hillsides. Differential-correction signals can be shared between the receiver on the tractor and the implement.

AutoTrac Vision Guidance, previously released for John Deere 30-Series and newer sprayers, is being expanded to include 7X30 large-frame, 8X30 and 8X30T, 7R and 8R/8RT tractors. AutoTrac Vision can be used in post-season crop applications to detect the crop row and provide input to the machine’s AutoTrac system to keep the tractor’s wheels or tracks between the rows. This level of precision can be beneficial when sidedressing fertilizer, post-emerge spraying and cultivating. “This application is supported when the tractor is working in corn, soybeans and cotton at least 6” tall with up to a 90% canopy. This level of advanced guidance minimizes crop damage, reduces operator fatigue and maximizes tractor productivity in fields with 20” to 40” row spacing,” Mishler adds.

In-Field Data Sharing makes it easier for producers to coordinate multiple machines working in the same field. Operators can use the application to share coverage, application, yield and moisture maps along with straight tracks and circle tracks with up to six other machines. The application helps machines, such as nurse trucks, tenders and grain carts, to work together more efficiently, reducing skips, overlap, fuel and input costs. Guidance lines can be shared without moving a USB stick from one machine to another, Mishler says.

The new applications are machine-specific bundled activations with the 4600 CommandCenter, Mishler says. For owners of machines equipped with a 4640 Display, the applications are offered as bundled one- or five-year subscriptions. For more information, visit a local John Deere dealer or www.johndeere.com.

Machinery Journal - Early Spring 2018

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 02:45:09 GMT

Horsch Introduces Two High-Speed Discs

The RT18, with an 18'4" working width, and the RT22, with a 21'8" working width, have been added to Horsch’s Joker RT lineup of high speed disks. The models can be used in both primary and secondary tillage operations. Both discs feature 20" notched blades mounted at a 17° angle as well as rubber torsion arms to protect the blades. They also feature a drawbar hitch, a three-section design to follow ground contours and oil-filled bearings. Manual or electronic depth control is also available as well as the RollFlex finishing system. The tool is designed to be an alternative to vertical tillage, field cultivators, soil finishers and tandem disk harrows. For more details, visit www.horsch.com/us .

High-Tech Tractor and Combine Tracks for Speed and Protection

Camso recently unveiled their smart track technology for tractors and conversion track system for combines in the U.S., both of which allow for increased road speeds and protect equipment. The company’s first smart track application involves a sensor embedded in the track to monitor temperature. If the track reaches high temperature levels, the sensor sends a signal to the tractor, which progressively yet promptly makes adjustments to reach higher speeds quickly while also protecting the track.

Camso’s conversion track system is the industry’s first 100% bolt-on option for combines with an integrated final drive that achieves road speeds of up to 23 mph. Its suspension with double-oscillation bogie wheels allows for better ground contact and ride quality. According to Camso, the larger ground footprint provides increased mobility and reduces ground pressure by more than 70%.

For more information, visit www.camso.co/en .

New Mahindra Retriever Can Reach Up to 60 mph

Sporting a 83-hp, 1,000-cc V-Twin TGB gas engine, the new Retriever utility vehicle from Mahindra can reach up to 60 mph. The workhorse features a heavy-duty frame and 67 lb. of torque. Towing capacity tops out at 2,500 lb., and hauling capacity at 1,000 lb. The continuously variable transmission and new bucket seats provide comfort for up to three riders at a time and 19" of entry space makes it easier to get in and out of the cab. A new dash features a 4.3" digital gauge. The vehicle has a 12" ground clearance, automotive LED headlights, standard 2" front and rear receiver hitches and electric cargo box dump and a choice of a standard or the Flexhauler (sides fold down to convert to a flat bed) 44"x64"x11" cargo box. For more, including details on the 24 Retriever models released in late 2017, visit www.mahindrausa.com .

Machinery Journal - March 2018

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 02:45:09 GMT

Lightweight and Compact Sprayer from Apache

Billed as the most affordable self-propelled sprayer in the industry, the Apache AS630 is compact and agile with a wheelbase of 13'8" and a turning radius of 17'2". At just 16,900 lb., it is the lightest self-propelled sprayer made by Equipment Technologies.

Under the hood, the sprayer has a four-speed JCB Powershift transmission and a Tier 4F 168-hp Cummins engine with a top speed of 32 mph.

The AS630 features a 650-gal. tank and an ACE hydraulically-driven centrifugal product pump. Boom options include 90' or 60'/90' straight ET custom booms or a straight 100' Pommier boom. Depending on tires, crop clearance can reach 42" to 48". Axle width is 90" or 120" fixed.

The AS630 features a 360°-view cab. Precision application equipment includes Raven Viper 4 , Hawkeye, AccuBoom, AutoBoom and RS-1 Protective Steering.

For more information, visit www.apachesprayers.com/as630 or an Apache sprayer dealer.

Case IH Rolls Out a Variety of New Equipment and Technology

The 4400 series corn header lineup is expanding to include narrow row (20" and 22") configurations. The lightweight header, up to 2,000 lb. less than competitive models, floats just above the ground to reduce compaction. For the first time, power is driven from the gearboxes in the center of the header and split equally to the right and left side of the header. From there, separate drive lines power the row units and choppers, which provides more efficient power flow and additional protection to the drive lines. Updated stalk roll spiral patterns handle a wider range of stalk diameters and stalk health. Row guide sensors help the row unit stay centered on the rows, reduce overall ear bounce and grain loss and provide more efficient picking.

Case IH is expanding its line of fertilizer applicators with the Nutri-Placer 940 High-Speed Low Disturbance (HSLD) row unit. The applicator is capable of speeds up to 11 mph and places nutrients up to 6" deep in the root zone. Models range from 50' to 65' widths and feature cast-iron components. They also include the new 22.6" single-coulter-blade design to cut through residue with minimal disturbance. Additional new features include five-section flex for ground contouring, triple-fold transport modes and 30" row spacing.

AFS Soil Command, the first seedbed quality monitoring technology, will be available on the Tiger-Mate 255 field cultivator for spring 2019. Factory-integrated seedbed sensors are strategically mounted to shank assemblies. The sensors monitor each time the shank begins to trip or float, alerting the operator to an uneven seedbed floor. The AFS Pro 700 display and interface allow operators to make adjustments on ISOBUS-VT-compliant displays.

The L10 series premium loaders feature new styling that provides better visibility, efficient, flow-optimized hydraulics and fast mount and dismount (30 to 60 seconds). A chamfered and embossed arm design increases strength and cast and forged components add more strength at critical stress points. The six models in the L10 series are designed for Farmall, Maxxum, Puma and Magnum tractors. A full range of attachments, from grapples to buckets to bale spears, are available.

For more details, visit www.caseih.com or a local dealer.

Kinze Releases Tillage Series and Planter Updates

A first for Kinze Manufacturing, the Mach Till is built for high speed (8 to 12 mph) and deep working depth while providing flotation to minimize soil compaction. Featuring four models (201, 261, 331 and 401), the Mach Till is described as a hybrid horizontal tillage tool, not a vertical tillage tool. Hybrid horizontal tillage combines the features of conventional disks, vertical tillage and soil finishing products into one tool. The tillage tool cuts and throws the soil at an angle to avoid creating a smear or compaction layer, then mixes the soil and residue together. The corrugated rubber roller on the back of the machine sheds soil and breaks up larger clods.

In addition, Kinze has released four updates to their planter equipment and technology:

Blue Vantage is a high-definition 12" screen that offers diagnostics, mapping and graphics. It takes only three clicks between turning it on and being ready to plant. It comes with a tablet dock and USB ports.
Blue Drive integrates with Blue Vantage to analyze data. Benefits include curve compensation to reduce under- or overplanting and Ethernet. Blue Vantage and Blue Drive will be available on Kinze’s 3660 and 4900 planters for 2019.
True Depth is a row-by-row active control with down and up force. It will be available on 4900 16- and 20-row models push and pull units with single valve control. Availability has yet to be announced.
Brush Meter 2.0 features a lightweight, impact-resistant design and quick change seed disks. The meter, which can be disassembled without tools, will fit Kinze 3000 and 4000 planter row units and be available for 2019.

Visit www.kinze.com for more information.

Salford Offers Fertilizer Applicator for Planters and Expands Air Boom Lineup

The Ferti-GO 4S, a planter-mounted, granular fertilizer applicator, features a single product hopper, variable-rate metering and four-section control. The hopper has a standard capacity of 4 tons and a 6-ton optional capacity. The metering system, paired with the Venturi Air Manifold System, is easy to use and clean and has a range of application rates. The Ferti-GO 4S comes rate-control ready with metering, fan speed sensors, PWM flow control and bin-level sensing.

The 60' row crop air boom for Salford’s 8700 pull-type applicator features outlets on 30" centers and new air flow technology for left and right section control. The boom width and axle spacing match 24-row planters. The bifold booms feature 7' spring-loaded breakaway tips on each side and in-cab hydraulic controls for folding and pitch adjustment. The 8700 has an 8- or 11-ton hopper. A secondary hopper gated partition, and metering, is optional. Salford’s air boom applicators are ISOBUS compatible and available with variable-rate and section control systems.

The Salford-Valmar 6700 is the only aftermarket chassis mounted air boom applicator. For now, it is available for John Deere 4930, 4940 and R4045 chassis. Hydraulic folding breakaway tips protect the 60' boom. The pitch of the left and right sections can be independently adjusted from the cab. Other features include 30" row crop spacing, PWM valves to control the chain mesh conveyors and roller motors, left hand and right hand section control, full swath variable rate and ISOBUS or third-party controller compatibility.

For more information, visit www.salfordgroup.com .