Gleanings from the Louisville show Friday, April 4, 2014 New technology was the watchword at February's National Farm Machinery Show in Kentucky CUTTING-EDGE SEEDING John Deere created a stir in Kentucky with the introduction of their ExactEmerge planter. The groundbreaking technology boasts increased accuracy and planting speeds up to 10 m.p.h., allowing farmers to plant more acres in less time, while optimizing their seed investment. SAVING FUEL! Kioti claims its Tractor Tier 4 Eco Technology, which drastically reduces tractor diesel emissions, allows farmers to save some 20 per cent on their fuel bill. The new technology also exceeds new emissions standards by 10 per cent. ELECTRONICS PACKAGE IMPROVES CULTIVATION AGCO Sunflower introduced a new computer package for the Sunflower 6631. It should be available to the public this coming autumn. The monitor allows the operator to monitor tilling depth side-to-side and fore-and-aft, resulting in superior consistency throughout rolling fields. CHALLENGER MT800E SERIES AGCO unveiled the new Challenger MT800E Series Track Tractor. Operators will love the increased power offered, up to 590 hp, which delivers superior torque at low rpms. This all-situations tractor delivers solid contact with less compaction while handling the biggest implements. SEED FASTER! Precision Plantings' new Speed Tube will be available for the spring of 2015. The technology addresses down force management, population control, spacing and row unit ride, while allowing farmers to seed 50 per cent to 100 per cent faster. More seeds can be planted in the optimal seeding window! HIGH-SPEED ONE-PASS DISC Degelman has developed a new heavier disc which gives farmers superior ground penetration, allowing one pass of 33 or 40 feet wide. This saves the farmers time and fuel. LESS WEIGHT, MORE POWER! The Gleaner S8 Super Series Combine. Now up to 15,600 pounds lighter than other competitive Class 8 combines, allowing operators to power through tough conditions with less horsepower and minimal compaction. Also features 50 per cent increased torque on the rear chains drive system. CROP ASSESSMENT ENHANCES YIELDS Aeryons Helicopter Drone allows farmers to assess field conditions and make adjustments on the fly. Multiple camera lenses detect insect infestations, fertilization problems and irrigation issues. This allows timely adjustments to enhance yields. The helicopter is controlled by a computer. EASY STONE PICKING Hate rock picking? Robo Rock Picker has an easy, economic way to pick rocks, using your tractor. Scoop and spin, leaving the dirt behind. A dairy operation that uses 'all the automation we could find' Rooting out weeds and staying on track with robots
Royal Canin Clarifies Groundwater Use With Amended Water Permit Near Guelph Thursday, April 16, 2026 Royal Canin Canada Company has received approval from Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) to amend its Permit to Take Water (PTTW) for its pet food manufacturing facility near Guelph, Ontario, following weeks of public consultation and local... Read this article online
Proposed USDA budget cuts could shift the North American ag landscape Wednesday, April 15, 2026 The US administration’s latest budget proposal includes a significant reduction to the US Department of Agriculture’s discretionary spending, a move that could have ripple effects across North American agriculture. According to Farms.com reporting, the proposal outlines a... Read this article online
Study reveals key climate drivers of potato beetle outbreaks Tuesday, April 14, 2026 A long term research project from Michigan State University (MSU) and the University of Wisconsin is offering new insight into what drives Colorado potato beetle outbreaks, giving US potato growers a clearer picture of how weather patterns and environmental conditions shape one of the... Read this article online
Fuel Tax Suspension Offers Timely Relief for Canadian Farmers Ahead of Peak Growing Season Tuesday, April 14, 2026 Canadian farmers are set to see short-term relief at the fuel pump following a major federal policy announcement that directly affects on-farm operating costs. On April 14, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that the federal government will temporarily suspend the Fuel Excise Tax on... Read this article online
Operating farm equipment in Ontario Tuesday, April 14, 2026 Farms.com continues to dive into farm equipment licensing and insurance requirements for Canadian producers with a look at the rules for Ontario. Do Ontarians need a license to drive a tractor? No license is required for a farm tractor or other self-propelled farm equipment whether on private... Read this article online