fj~[3~~I~'I:i'~~~~~ MICHIGAN'S ONLY STATEWIDE FARM NEWSPAPER P•.~_. ' "v.: CWftD. "" . "IUIII ow tires and rubber belt trackson tractors and other field equipment can • reduce soil compaction will be the focus of the Ag Expo field demonstrations, June 25-27 at Michigan State University. The three-day event will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 25 and 26 and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 27. "Soil compaction has been an increasing concern among many farmers during the past few years as equipment has become larger,'" explained Tim Harrigan, Ag Expo DirectoI: "There are a number of things farmers can do to minimize soil compaction and yet still get optimal perfor- mance from equipment We will show how that can be accomplished." According t Harrigan, the field demonstra- tions wilI run from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day and will feature equipment and tillage experts from MSU,John Deere, Ford New Holland, Caterpillar Visitors to this year's Ag Expo will learn some tips on reducing compaction and improving and the Goodyear Tire Company. nutrient absorption without sacrificing surface residue. Precision agriculture will also be Included in the field demonstrations wilIbe highlighted as a means to improve overall farming techniques. tractors on electronic scales to show how farmers can balance them for optimum weight distnbution, and a demonstration on tire selection and balIasting Animal handling demonstrations to for minimum ground pressure. In addition, two focus on managing total mixed rations tractors using an evener hitch (to see which tractor is pulling the most efficiently) wilI pull a third tractor or -rhere's the ration you balance, ration variation, moisture levels, particle length, tillage unit to demonstrate traction capability. there's the ration you put Into ration balancing and mixing management guide- Weed .... r PIaaBed the mixer, there's the ration JOU lines. uvestock producers will also have a unique The annual MSUWeed Tour will also take deliver to the animal, and then opportunity to bring in their own TMR samples place on Wednesday of Ag Expo week. Guided tours there's the ration the animal and have them tested for particle length. will start at the MSUBotany and Plant Pathology consumes- -MSU's Dr. Bill Bickert Signs will be posted at the entrance to the Ag field laboratory on College Road. The com and T here's little doubt that total mixed rations, Expo grounds giving instructions on where to drop soybean tour begins at 9 a.m. and the horticultural or TMRs, are quickly becoming the feeding offTMR samples and schedule an appointment for crops tour starts at 1 p.m. Visitors can take self- method of choice for mQStdairy producers. testing and consultation with a nutritionist on their guided tours of the plots beginning at 2 p.m. on The economics of this decision have been docu- TMR. "We plan to have 10 commercial units, mar- Thesday and anytime on Wednesday or Thursday. mented numerous times. However, there are factors keted by NASCO,available for producers to use in AlII ..... HaadlI .. te IIIcIIIda about TMRdelivery that warrant more attention, conducting their own particle length test," Bickert Fne Feed PartIcle ADaIJsIs says MSU's Bill Bickert, a professor in the Agricultur- explained. The animal handling demonstration at al Engineering Department. Tell them what "TMRsare an essential aspect of good dairy Producers should be aware that the TMR test will focus on particle length only and will not test Ag Expo's main exhibition site will be on dairy and animal behavior, feed bunk management and you think! management - everyone ought to be aiming to- ward feeding TMRs to every animal on the farm," for protein or energy levels. Bickert estimates that feed mixing. The sessions will be held at 11 a.m. bout 400 farm families visiting Ag Expo producers should allow 10 to 15 minutes for the and 1:30 p.m. each day. A will be asked to comment on the quality of the show and the various demonstrations Bickert said. "However, we feel there are some op- portunities for producers to improve their feed testing and consultation procedure. Twice a day, at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., produc- Dairy and beef producers are invited to bring gallon-sized samples of fresh TMRs to the demon- utili.z1tion and TMRpractices." ers can also attend a 45-minute program to hear strations for free TMR particle analysis and consulta- that will take place each day. With those goals in mind, the animal handling from Dennis Buckmaster, lenn State Associate tion. The samples should be pulled from the TMR "Our aim is to make sure that we are in tune with visitors' expectations of the show and demonstration at MSU's Ag Expo,june 25-27, will Professor in Agricultural Biological Engineering. mixer wagon delivery chute or from the feedbunk its intended educational content," says Ag Expo focus on improving TMRs, paying dale attention to Continued on page 12 Continued on page 2 Director Tim Harrigan. "The survey is the best way we can keep in touch with the ideas or informational needs that producers have in light Tires, tracks, traction and flotation ... 2 CAT Tracks 6 1996 Ag Expo Exhibit Map 11 of the rapid changes occurring in agriculture. University study provides answers Yield monitoring optimizes Avoiding common TMR problems 12 We want Ag Expo to be as beneficial as possible to managing compaction 3 crop management 8 Want to improve your TMRs? to our visitors." Tractor performance engineers say . John Deere GreenStar combine Cut your mixing time! 13 The survey will be conducted at various lower your radial tire pressures 4 yield-mapping system 9 Guide to adjusting your tractor for times of the day during all three days of Ag Expo Schrran portable scales to be featured Something for everyone to optimum performance 14 by students from the College of Agriculture and at MSU Ag Expo field demos 5 bid on at the third annual Natural Resources, and will take less than 10 New Holland tractors designed FFA Silent Auction! 10 with the driver in mind 16 minutes to answer .• Sell products and services in the Michigan Farm News classifieds-Page 15 Tires, tracks, traction and flotation 'L'jl~~~I~'I~~~~~ June 15, 1996 - by Tim Harrigan, Associate Professor, • Compaction can be reduced over time by wetting Agricultural Engineering Department and drying, freezing and thawing, root. growth Michigan State University and microbial activity. T he focus of MSU's Ag Expo field demon- • Freezing and thawing is effective near the surface strations this year will be on reducing soil where several freeze-thaw cycles occur. But don't compaction. Demonstrations will illustrate count on freezing and thawing to repair deep the range of tire and track options available for compaction in one winter. Deep compaction tractors, combines and other equipment The goes through only one freeze-thaw cycle per year events will also show how decisions regarding tire and can persist for several years. selection, tire pressure and ballasting influence • Increasing soil organic matter with animaVgreen machinery performance and compaction. manure can help manage compaction by de- Excessive compaction can restrict root devel- creasing soil bulk density and improving water opment, increase soil and water runoff and decrease infiltration, water-holding capacity and aggregate crop yields. While some soils are naturally compact, stability. most compaction problems in Michigan are caused • The best way to deliberately compact a soil is to by heavy and repetitive loads from large tractors, first l005en it with tillage and then apply a load. combines, manure spreaders and other implements. Frequent deep tillage followed by excessive traf- Since compaction is influenced by contact pres- fic may drive compaction even deeper into the sure at the soil surface, as well as total axle load, large soil. Deep tillage should only be used when a equipment should be managed for optimal perfor- documented compaction problem exists. mance and minimal soil compaction. Minimizing soil compaction is the focus of numerous field demonstrations at the 1996 Ag • Mter years of reduced tillage, soil is more resis- ...... 121.. Sell c...~- Expo. From tracks to tire pressure, all phases of tire compaction will be addressed. tant to traffic. This can be measured by reduced Symptoms of compaction include soil crust- tire track depth, lower measured soil stress be- ing, cloddy seedbeds, standing water and an ab- are usually poorly drained and fine-textured soils C.. lder ........... : low the tire surface and change in pore volume. sence of plant roots in the soil profile, variable plant such as clay huns . • 70 to 90 percent of the tire sinkage and bulk den- However, soil compaction can occur in any tillage emergence and growth, distorted stem shoots, • Moot problems are caused by trafficking soil sity change occurs on the first pass across the field. system, including no-till. lodging, and depressed yields. when it is too wet Water lubricates the soil and • Compaction is generally confined to the upper 12 Managing soil compaction may mean compro- Asuccessful management strategy includes all makes it easier to squeeze the soil particles to- inches ifthe maximum axle load is less than five mising the need to finish field work in a timely fash- aspects of the crop production system: soils, tillage, gether and compact the soiL tonsj however; wet soils and repetitive traffic can ion and the need to avoid trafficking soil that's too crop rotation and machinery management The first Shallow compaction is influenced mootly by push it deeper. wet Nature can alleviate machinery-induced compac- step in developing a plan to manage compaction is contact pressure at the soil surface, deep compac- • Yield response to deep compaction often de- tion in the long-run, but the best way to manage com- to take stock of what we already know: tion by both contact pressure and axle load. Heavier pends on the weather; yields tend to decrease in paction year-to-year is to manage machinery to keep • Most soils - including mucks and sandy soils - loads drive compaction deeper into the soil, even wet years and increase in dry years. a light load on the soil, choose tillage operations wise- can suffer compaction, but the most susceptIble when the ground contact pressure is similar to that • Shallow compaction can hurt yields every year in ly,return organic matter to the soil, and include crops of lighter loads. all tillage systems. such as alfalfa in the rot3:tion when possible .• Managing machinery to alleviate soil compaction A basic machinery management strategy to control soil compaction is to select and oper- ate available equipment in a way that applies the axle loads are equal front to rear. "For a 175-horse- power tractor, this cuts the maximum axle load by nearly 50'percent for a 4-WDcompared to a 2-WD load over a larger area. " Likewise, o~er-inf1atinga 20.8R42 to 18 psi Table 1- GlOSS Vehicle Weight (GVW) rather than 10 psi can decrease ground contact area and Maximum Axle Loads lowest possible pressure to the soil, advises Tim tractor (see Table I)," Harrigan said. "For manure by 33 percent, cautions Harrigan. Traction can be Harrigan, associate professor in MSU'sAgricultural spreaders and grain cartS, tandem axles are better GVW Maximum Axle improved by adding weight, using a larger diameter Engineering Department than single axles." Implement Ibs. Load, tons tire, or increasing lug depth in soft soils. "With wheel tractors, producers should select ~ ... GIWUIId Pressa ... Tractors (under load) 11ICr'~. Travel Speed 175 hp, 2-WD a tractor chassis that distnbutes the load evenly Several studies have shown a corresponding 22.750 9.1 Increasing travel speed decreases soil strain, 175hp, MFWD 21,000 7.3 over the axles and decrease ground pressure with yield decrease as ground pressure increases. Tracks Harrigan advises. Power is the product of pull and 175 hp, 4-WD 19,250 4.8 larger, low-pressure radial tires," Harrigan allow low ground pressure - Caterpillar estimates speed. For example, a 20-foot field cultivator operat- Combines explained. "Tracks or low-pressure tires can 431[()6 psi - because the tracks spread the load Small, 3-4 row 20.000 7.0 ing at 431mph requires about the same horsepower also be added to combines, grain cartS, manure over a larger area. While duals or triples can do the Medium, 6-8 rr:1'N 30.000 10.5 as a IS-foot field cultivator traveling at 6 mph. "Both Deer ... tII. MaxI._. spreaders and other equipment" Axle Lead Chassis type affects axle load, says Harrigan Two- same thing, Harrigan suggests reducing tire pres- sure according to manufacturer recommendations for the load carried. will cover the same amount of ground in a given hour, and reducing draft may allow a lighter tractor large, 12 rovv Manure Spreader. Box. 220 bu. single axle 40,000 13,000 14.0 6.5 to be used," he suggested. V-Tank. 1.400 gal. 16,000 8.0 wheel drive (2-WD) tractors carry 75 percent or more "Since 1992, radial tires have been available R.... ~ TrIps Ac:ress .... Reid Tanker. 2,400 gal. 25,000 12.5 of the total tractor weight over the rear axle. A me- with design pressures as low as 6 psi for duals and Newer tillage tools allow multiple operations Manure Spreader. tandem axle chanical-front-wheel-drive (MFWD) tractor of similar triples," Harrigan said. "Ground pressure is usually Box.390 bu. 23,000 5.75 and a range of control over crop residue that allows weight and horsepower is designed to carry about estimated as the tire inflation pressure plus one or V-Tank. 2,950 gal. 31,000 7.75 reducing the number of seedbed tillage operations. Tanker. 4,000 gal. 39,000 9.75 60 percent of the tractor's weight on the rear axle. CWopsi to account for tire stiffness. Lowering the Crops such as dry beans are quite sensitive to shal- Under load, four-wheel-drive (4-WD) tractor pressure increases tire contact area and spreads the low compaction created in the spring during seed- bed tillage.• Less compaction and more precision focus at Ag Expo Continued from front page hide equipped with GPS for soil sampling. right after delivery to ensure a random represenra- More than 300 manufacturers of farm equip- tive feed sample. ment and suppliers of farm services from 23states PrecIsI •• r:ar.... and four Canadian provinces have registered for the D AwaI ....... show, according to Harrigan. Demonstrations ofprecision farming equipment Visitors can watch antique steam and gasoline- at the main exhibition site wiD take place at noon and fired tractors, and tour "education row," featuring 3 p.m. each day. There will be demonstration on field exhibits, information and demonstrations by more Rugged Enough To mapping, combine yield monitors, an anhydrous ap- plicator fitted with a global positioning system (GPS), a GPS-guided field crop sprayer and an all-terrain ve- than a dozen departments in the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.• Work On Your Farm. Lester knows every farmer wants designed or standard, is pre-engineered buildings that took good, provide long term reliability, and are affordable. Uni-Framee from top quality materials and backed by the industry's leading warranty. House makes further cuts in EEP agricultural buildings from Lester meet the highest standards for appearance, durability and value. Every structure, custom For handsome, functional agricultural buildings, visit your local independent Lester Builder or call 1-800-826-4439. T he House Appropriations Committee has voted to limit the Export Enhancement Program (EEP) to $100 million in fiscal 1997, partly to find USDAhas not used EEP to subsidize grain exports since July 1995 and may not have much need for it in the coming year if grain prices remain high. enough money to pay farmers their full Freedom to The agriculture spending bill passed by the ~ESTER> Farm payment Appropriations Committee also contains '5.5 billion The $100 million is far below the S600 million in short-term export credit guarantees and 1500 LESTER BUILDING SYSTEMS A 0Msi0n of Butler Manufacturing Company to $800 million earmarked in recent years. But million in medium-term credits, says Reuters .• Almont Alto Coldwater Holt T & W Construction Steadfast Construction Cole Construction Construction Services 810-798-8331 616-868-6032 517-278-6867 517-694-5255 North Branch Roscommon West Branch Agri-Building Dev. The Building Center Miller Con. & Equip. 810-688-4128 517-821-6850 517-345-2499 University study provides answers to managing compaction W hich is better for controlling compac- There were statistically significant differences tion - tires or tracks? The answer may in the amount of compaction generated by each of surprise you. Results from a study the four tractor setups. The rankings remained the conducted by Ohio State University's agricultural same for runs with and without the field implement. engineering department could finally put to rest Of particular note is the fact that the John the issue of which is best. Deere 8870 that finished first and last in the test was The test was conducted in the spring of 1994 the same tractor, driving home the importance'of on a compatible soil located at the university's ex- correct inflation pressure. This underscores the fact perimental farm near South Charleston, Ohio. Re- that the major contnbutor to compaction from a searchers focused on proper tractor weight and conventional tractor is tire inflation pressure, not ballast, tire size and correct inflation pressure. Four simply the weight of the tractor. That's because the different tractor setups, both with and without an ground pressure under any tire averages only one implement (a 41-footJohn Deere 980 Field Cultiva- to two psi higher than the tire inflation pressure, tor), were tested. even under load. Measures of changes in bulk density, air-filled The results suggest that producers who want porosity, air permeability and cone penetration were to minimize compaction don't necessarily have to made to gauge soil compaction. According to the invest in a track vehicle - just make sure that results, published in a Society of Automotive Engi- they're using the correct tire pressure setting in neers technical paper, the fourtractorsetups ranked their radial tires and that they're using the largest from lowest to highest compaction were as follows: tire size practical for their farming operation . • John Deere 8870 4-WD tractor with 710170R38 The 8870 tractor used in the test was dual radials correctly inflated (l psi front and equipped with radials and 3,930 pounds of cast 6 psi rear). ballast on the rear axle. Tractor weight was 37,330 University test results indicate that farmers who want to minimize compaction don't have to • Caterpillar Challenger 75 with 35-inch belt pounds (107 pounds/engine hp) with the correct invest in a track vehicle. But they do need to make sure they set the inflation pressures in (estimated static ground pressure at 4Y2to 6 psi). weight split (53 percent) on the front axle. their radial tires according to the new guidelines and use the largest tire size practical for • Caterpillar Challenger 65 with 25-inch belt Researchers also evaluated a range of tractive their farming operations. (estimated static ground pressure at 4Y2 to 6 psi). setups for a 12-row combine and a loaded 1,200- • John Deere 8870 4-WD Tractor with 710170R38 bushel grain cart with 24.5 X 32 tires on tandem compacted on two different soils as follows: the headlands will help avoid compaction from dual radials overinflated (24 psi in all eight tires). axles. They ranked the setups from least to most • Combine with 68 X 50.0-32 flotation tires at 15 psi large grain carts." • Combine with 68 X 50.0-32flotation tires at 24 psi ......... datl_ • Combine with 18.4R38dual tires at 26 psi An important factor in managing wheeled trac- • Combine with John Deere rubber belt half tracks tors is to follow the new, low inflation pressure guide- • Combine with 3O.5L-32single tires at 34 psi lines recommended by tire manufacturers for larger • 1,200-bu. grain em with 24.5 x 32 tires on radial tires and ballasting for optimal performance, tandem axles. advises Harrigan. "This will reduce compaction and According to MSU'sTim Harrigan, associate increase tractive ability and fuel efficiency," he said professor in the Agricultural Engineering Depart- Rubber belt tractors operate near optimum ment, this study points out the importance of prop- over a wider range of speeds than tire tractors and er inflation pressure in managing soil compaction. with considerably less adjustment, but at a higher "The least compaction was caused by the large flota- initial COSL With grain carts and manure spreaders, tion tires inflated to 15 psi," he said. "Over-inflation Harrigan says to either add tracks or increase the to 24 psi decreased the tire contact area and in- number of axles, increase tire size, and decrease creased compaction with the same load. Lowering inflation pressure. "Aboveall, avoid the temptation tire inflation pressure and unloading combines at to use tracks, duals or triples to enter a field early, when you know it's too wet," he concluded.. Brookside Laboratories, Inc. Morton Buildings introduces Insta-Lok self-sealing roof panels Crop Consulting Services M orton Buildings, Inc. announces the Insta-LoklZ standing seam roof system. This patented, self-sealing system creates a clean, linear offer a 20-year warranty against red rust, fading, chalking and peeling. Insta-Lok pdnels are secured by a concealed ............... GPS/GIS Services appearance, without the distraction of fasteners. anchor clip. The simple installation involves hook- Soil sampling and analysis, fertilily recommen- The Insta-Lok design accommodates virtually all ing and rolling each metal panel over the previous dations; Process yield moniloring data mto types of roof designs, steep angles, and even verti- panel's formed edge. As each panel is installed on maps; Evaluate fields for cause of varied cal rib applications. the roof, the standing seam self-seals and automati- produdion; Appropriate recommendations to Because of the unique interlocking scheme, cally locks to the adjacent panel, resulting in a se- reduce tbe effecJ of crop yield limitingfadors. Insta-Lok means faster, more precise installations -- cure, watertight fit. it eliminates the need for crimping or mechanically Morton Buildings, headquartered in Morton, Complete Analytical Services ......... sealing the seams. It also permits unlimited expan- fi1., employs 1900 people, has five manufacturing sion and contraction of the roof during climate plants and over 111 construction centers .• shifts. This versatility alIows Morton Buildings to Soil, feed, tissue, water, manure, lime and fertilizer; berbicide/~idde and environmenlaJ analysis. SOFTEN YOUR WATER ............. Manure Management WITHOUT ELECTRICITY, SALT Manun! and soil analysis; Recommendations OR CHEMICALS for manure utilization tbat provide optimum For City or Well Water crop produdion while complying with tbe Right- The SoPhTec water conditioning system provides a non- to-mrm Guidelinesfor Manure Utilization. chemical SALT FREE method for preventing scale and removes existing scale. This clamp-on device MAKES HARD WATER I Nitrogen Monitoring ............... ACT LIKE SOFT WATER. Eliminates sulphur odor. Water heaters use less energy and cost less to operate. Use 50% less Soil sampling and recommendations for corn, soaps and detergenl". SoPhT~ extends the life of your water sugar beets, and vegetables. heater. piping and fixtures. Installs easily. is maintenance and service free. SoPhTec water conditioning include models C-500 Crop scoutingfor weeds, insects, arui disease (for incoming water) and C-250 (for hot water heater). Total with conlrol recommendations. system cost is $359 plus shipping. SoPhTec models have a 90 day money back guarantee plus a ten year warranty. ......... Integrated Pest Management To place your order or to receive more information, call or write: CARL KNIGHT SoPhTec The Brookside Consultants for Ibis area: Distributor 4860QUARRY LANE CLEVELAN~OH «143 Dennings and AssDciates, Inc. SlDp In and ~e 7879 Upton Road. Elsie, Michigan 48831 Toll Free 1-800-708-2872 lIS at LDt 118. 517-862-5815 Tractor performance engineers say ... Lower your radial tire pressures W ant to hear that advice again? Lower your radial tire pressures! It's the simplest, easiest, lowest cost way to increase your tractor's productivity and reduce benefits of low soil compaction and much of the radial's traction advantage. Red .. Ilqald ballast Along with encouraging people to reduce tire compaction. Tractor performance engineers say inflation levels and add only enough weight to run shouting it out may help more people get the mes- in the 5- to 6-mph range, Sieven recommends using sage because they continually find armers running cast-iron weights, rather than liquid ballast, to get tires overinflated for the job. the weight you need. Radial tractor tires perform better at lower The reason? Once liquid ballast is added, Sievert pressures. When operated at recommended infla- says people often don't remove it "Atractor may need tion levels, radial tires deliver a 17 percent traction weight added for heavy tillage, then removed for light- advantage, on average, compared to bias ply tires. er work, but few people want to mess with liquid. Cast- Several years ago, tire manufacturers reduced iron weights are easier to manage," he says. minimum recommended inflation levels for radial liquid ballast has other drawbacks. It stiffens tires to as low as 6 psi. For many tractor owners, the tire, which reduces the ~ial's inherent "flex" filling a big tire with such low air pressure seems to advantage. It increases rolling resistance, and there's fly in the face of common sense. The fact that the the potential for freezing and corrosion of the rims. tires look half.flat at these pressures adds to the It's also easier to adjust weight with cast-iron problem of too-high inflation. weights. Because of their "leverage" paiition ahead "People have a hard time accepting such low of or behind the axles, suitcase-style weights can pressures," says Richard Sievert, a Case field training give the front-rear weight ratios you want with less manager who frequently speaks to dealer and cus- total weight than you'd need with liquid ballast or tomer groups about tractor performance. wheel weights. "They want to grab the air hose and pump Your tractor's productivity is greadyaffected radial tires up to where they 'look right' But that's by tire size, inflation pressures and the amount and the wrong thing to do. For radials, you want the location of weight Fine-tuning it to the optimal largest 'footprint' you can get, and that only comes levels will help you get more field work done faster, at these lower pressures." using less fuel and with less soil compaction. To run at the lowest air pressures, your tractor Welglltlballast basics should be as light as possible. This, too, seems to • Radial tires deliver their best performance contradict conventional thinking ... lots of weights, at the lowest-rated air pressure for the load. lots of liquid ballast will give you the best possible • Assuming tire loads are not exceeded, radial traction, right? In the literal sense, that's true. But Radials can function better with less air than the maximum manufacturer guidelines, tires can be operated at inflation pressures as it's not what you want for maximum productivity. covering more ground and providing more traction. low as 6 psi. "Youget the best performance from your trac- Many farmers fill their tires up to the level on the sidewall; but that's the maximum • Higher inflation pressures defeat many of the tor when it's weighted to pull its load between 5 and amount the tire should have, not the best air pressure. Radials are designed to have a traction and flotation advantages of radial tires. 6 mph with wheel slip in the 10 percent to 12 percent bulge in the side, unlike most other tires, which are under-inflated if the side is sticking out. Consider using larger tires or duals if you must range for row-<:rop tractors," Sievert explains. Four- inflate your tires over 14 psi to meet their weight- wheel-drive tractors should have a little less slip. carrying requirements. Youwant just enough weight to operate in this Your goal should be to run with the lowest tire stays the same- 335 square inches - but the • Your tractors should be weighted to pull imple- window. More weight simply wastes fuel, increases recommended air press!lre for the load your tires pressure on the soil is reduced to just 10.37 pounds ments in the 5- to 6-mph range, even for imple- compaction and adds undue wear to the drivetrain. are carrying. Because the tire's weight-<:arrying per square inch. Traction is improved because the ments you will normally pu1\at slower speeds. If you're using an implement you don't intend ability decreases as inflation levels decrease, you tires are more flexIble (so you might be able to Add duals, then more weight, to give enough to pu1\in the 5- to 6-mph range, such as a deep ripper need to know how much weight you're carrying per remove some weight and sti1\have acceptable trac- traction to run this fast If you don't have enough or heavy chisel plow, Sievert says you should still have tire. This requires using scales and an accurate tire tion) and soil compaction is greatly reduced. horsepower, consider a smaller implement or the tractor and implement matched to run at 5 to 6 gauge, but the results are worth the effort Of course, mait people already use duals for h~herhorsepowertractor mph. If you have an implement you can't pull at 5 to For example, suppose you have an MI'WD trac- heavier loads. But what's often overlooked is the • Minimize the use of liquid ballast Cast-iron 6 mph because you're limited by traction or horse- tor You've added several cast-iron wheel weights that opportunity to drop the air pressure in all four tires weights, used only when needed, are preferred. power, you should be using a smaller implement or a increase your rear axle weight to 13,900 pounds. Its because the per-tire load is much less . • Expect to make frequent adjustments of tire tractor!tire setup that lets you add more weight while rear tires, two 18.4R42s, are each capable of carrying "We usually find tire inflation levels on duals inflation pressures and cast-iron weights to gain keeping tires inflated at these lower levels. 6,950 pounds when inflated to 24 psi. are far higher than they need to be," Sievert ex- maximum productivity in varying conditions. In fact, Sievert says, if you need to inflate tires At this pressure and weight, statically, each of plains. If all four of those 18.4R42s are carrying only • The larger the tire, the better You'1\gain a larger beyond 14 psi to carry the load, he recommends these two tires will give a footprint of 335 square 3,475 pounds but kept at 24 psi, they won't spread footprint, resulting in reduced ground pressure using duals or a larger tire so you can run with low- inches and exert 20.7 pounds per square inch on out into that big, fat desirable radial tire footprint and the ability to carry more weight at lower er air pressure. the soil surface. Because they're overinflated for the load, their foot- inflation pressures. AI. f. less welgld. .... pr-.-.s Duals would be a much better choice. Adding print is only 125 square inches, and the pressure on • Your goal should be to have the least amount of two more I8.4R42s wi1\reduce the weight carried the soil becomes 25.6 pounds per square inch. weight and lowest recommended tire pressures per tire to only 3,475 pounds, so you can drop the By adding duals, but failing to reduce air pres- for the job .• inflation pressures to 9 psi. The footprint of each sures to the lowest paisible level, you've lait all the • Pasture renovation AerWay -Improving soil con- • Hay aeration dition and absorption rates • Minimum and no-till by Mary J. Gawenda nure placement issues, especially for farmers work- • Manure management I nno-till and minimum till situations, producers often find themselves in a dilemma - how do you deal with surface compaction, and improve ing with highly erodible land. "The AerWayisn't for one soil type or one application - that's the mait unique feature of the machine. You can use it in nutrient and moisture absorption without sacrific- many phases of a farm operation," said Jerry Nyer, ing surface residue. Producers attending the MSU state retail representative. Ag Expo field demonstration may find their answer Some farmers are using the Aerway aerator to CJ\er~ Way) when they see AerWay's aerator/cultivator in action replace their standard moldboard plow because the behind a liquid manure spreader for the Ag Expo Aerway reduces run-off and erosion. Aerating and Field Demai. cultivating also are becoming the precursors to no- Manure spreaders, grain carts and other heavy till farming. payloads can cause compaction, making it harder By running the Aerway ahead of the planter, it The most versatile implement you'll ever own for soils to absorb nutrients and crops to grow, according to AerWaymarketing manager Paul loosens soil and a1\ows seeds to embed themselves without a lot of extra plowing. "Farmers can use Gillen. "One of the worst compactors on the market (the AerWay) in the spring to pre-plant, loosen up is a manure spreader," he said. Come see us at the ground and warm it up," Nyer said. The aerator, which can be run independent or Lot 213 at Ag Expo behind other implements, including manure An annual passover with the Aerway keeps soil fresh enough to provide nutrients and soil founda. spreaders, loosens soil and allows rain, manure and tion for several years of crops, instead of rotating other nutrients to be absorbed quicker and deeper 800-457-8310 into the soil. The aerator's tines poke holes in the every few years, some farmers report soil and loosen dirt, and can be adjusted to vary the The AerWay can be purchased in different e-mail: aerw.Iy@oxford.net level of ti1\age,explains Gillen. widths, ranging from 4-feet to 36-feet, Nyer said. HOLlAND EQUIPMENT LIMITED A I2-foot unit would cost about $5,850, he esti- The AerWayaerator is a welcome addition to 20 PHOEBE STREET, NORWICH, ONTARIO mates. Each unit is sold with a I-year manufactur- any livestock-producing farm that deals with ma- er's warranty .• Schrran portable scales to be featured at MSU Ag Expo field demos o help demonstrate the concept and impor- T Each pad is wired and calibrated, via a 3D-foot tance of proper weight and ballast in maxi- cord, to a Weigh-Tronix indicator which also has an mizing tractor performance, producers optional RS-232output jack for connecting to a attending the MSU Ag Expo field demonstrations printer, if so desired. The entire system is powered willsee firsthand how convenient and helpful off of a cigarette lighter. Schrran Engineering's portable scales can be. The scale pads can be set up on gravel, ce- Each scale pad, constructed of aluminum, ment, or right in the field, provided soil conditions weighs approximately 55 pounds, is 28 inches long aren't muddy. "These scales will work well if you. by 2412 inches wide, and measures only 3 inches simply make a trail with whatever it is your going to tall;iacilitating quick and easy setup and transport, weigh, to help firm the ground up," he explained. says Dave Wolf,salesman for Schrran Engineering. "This system doesn't have to be set up in a perfectly He says the small size and light weight also facilitate level condition either." UPSshipment when needed. Maintenance and storage requirements are Schrran Engineering, based in Griswold, Iowa, pretty straightforward - keep the units stored in a offers a four-pad system for weighing tractors, wag- dry location when not in use, Wolfadvises. "That's ons, and single axle trucks with a 60,000 pound not to say you can't use them when it's raining - capacity, and a six-pad system for weighing tandem they're very accurate regardless of the weather - axle trucks with a 90,000 pound capacity. Wolf says but you need to prevent freezing and thawing of the that the portable scales are becoming very popular weigh bars," he explained. with seed companies in conducting yield checks In addition to factory-direct sales, Schrran also and test plot work. provides factory-direct service when needed with "This system allows a seed company to use turnaround time generally averaging three days. To the farmer's existing equipment along with our reduce downtime, Schrran will also send a loaner portable scales, rather than dragging around weigh pad when necessary. "It's a simple fact that you buy Each scale pad, constructed of aluminum, weighs approximately 55 pounds, is 28 inches wagons," Wolfsaid. "A number of producers use it here and we service here," Wolfsaid.• long by 24'12 inches wide, and measures only 3 inches tall, facilitating quick and easy setup the scales in working with landlords, and at the and transport. bin site as well when they're loading or unloading wagons and trucks. Producers are also using the scales for weighing livestock, feed rations, fertilizer and seed as well." Although the scales aren't "legal for trade," which would require additional certification and paperwork each time the scales are set up, Wolf says the system is guaranteed 1 percent or better for accuracy. Skid-steer tracks move Bobcats through thick andthin S kid-steers are notorious for the back-breaking work they save producers and the ability to get into and out of tight confinement areas. Unfor- tunately, they're equally notorious for being almost useless in muddy conditions. "Skid loaders without tracks are efficient until you get into heavy mud, then you'll start getting slippage. They'll sit there and spin, just like a vehi- cle in the mud," said Todd Wilcox, Bobcat Central Inc. salesman. He says that skid-steer loader tracks protect tires and make getting through muddy areas easier. Wilcoxsells three different types of skid-steer tracks out of the family-run business in Lansing. Melroe, which manufacturers Bobcat skid- steers, has 12 different models, ranging from 16.5 hp to 74 hp with dozens of attachments. Wilcox said he hopes to have five loaders at the Ag Expo booth. Cast Trac metal tracks, by Grouser Products, reduce ground pressure, and improve traction and flotation in soft and muddy conditions. To install Grouser tracks, an operator drives the skid-steer onto the tracks and bolts the tracks around slightly deflated tires, Wilcox said. Designed for convenience in installing, the whole operation takes about 30 minutes to put on and 10 minutes to remove. "Grouser tracks can be used in other applications, but dirt, mud and snow are the main things," Wilcox said Tire Crawlers, the Loegering brand of tracks, also provide better flotation and traction than tires, and the metal tracks are custom-built to fit Crawl- ers assemble the same way as Grouser tracks and the patented, durable carbon steel tracks have a tighter pivot than tires alone. Goodyear engineers probably had construc- tion workers in mind when they designed their rubber tracks, but to the advantage of farmers, the allied-approved rubber tracks work well in soft, sandy conditions, too. And if an operator needs to drive the skid loader over concrete or asphalt, the tracks won't damage the hard surfaces. Grouser and Loegering tracks cost about $2,500 for a Bobcat 763 model, and Goodyear rubber tracks cost about $4,500. "Youcan buy tracks for tractors, irrigation equipment and pretty much any type of equipment," Wilcox said .• ~1@JJi'!] ~ Il'I:t'm ~fK.!J ~ ~ June 15, 1996 CAT by Mary J. Gawenda tracks makes these tractors shine. Effectively,you're get- ting more days of growing season of crop by having a belted tractor," Harmon said. and the rear tires slip more than the front, power hopping can become a problem for some drivers. "It's very tough to make wheel tractors always M ait farmers know compaction isn't A patented Mobile 'frack system allows the work properly and not have this power hop prob- good for their land or crops, but what tractor to put more pressure on the front idler and lem happen, but with a Challenger tractor, pOwer some farmers may not know is that rear driver to keep the positive engagement of the hop never happens," he said. Caterpillar (CAT)tractors are proven to reduce belt to the wheel, he said. Sales rates show some Michigan farmers agree compaction and increase yields, said Tim Harmon, "Because these tractors don't have slip to the with Harmon's assessments; 39 CATswere sold here CATterritory manager. degree that wheel tractors will, you utilize a much last year, and although the tractor buying season is Since sales began in 1987, CATshave been a larger percentage of horsepower," Harmon said done, Wilkinson said he expects to sel1three more hot item among Michigan farmers, especially Wheel tractors have about 15 percent slip, Challengers this summer. And service after the sale Thumb area farmers producing specialized crops while tracks have about 3 percent slip, making for is second to none, he said. and working on difficult soils, said Warren Wilkin- less time in the fields and less fuel burned trying to "We have 27 field trucks that are accessible son, ag specialist and salesperson for the North- Large tillage Challenger 65D get out of the mud, he said by phone and 95 percent of the service on the western areas of the state. The Challenger tillage tractor has six axles and Challenger can be addressed right at the location of "Muck farmers have been totally impressed hp, and Challenger 55 with 225 hp. Tilltractors in- the CATrow cropper has five axles, Harmon said, the farm. And nobody understands the importance with these tractors because they don't create com- clude: the Challenger 650 with 300 hp, Challenger which spreads about 30,000 pounds of machinery of downtime more than Michigan CAT,from work- paction. But on the same token, we've got these 75C with 325 hp, and the 85C tractor with 355 hp. to only 5,000 to 6,000 pounds per axle. ing with our construction crews" Wilkinson said tractors with our traditional crop farmers, such as Harmon said reduced compaction and time "With a wheel tractor, because it only has two The most common problems with CAT corn, wheat and soy beans," he said. Wilkinson works savings are advantages of tractors with tracks, and axles and usually the weight is slanted more toward tractors are fuel related, such as debris in the fuel with Harmon out of CAT'snew Lansing location. anyone using tires could be wasting precious time, the rear, you may have 15,000 to 18,000 pound axle system or a damaged fuel pump, he said. The stan- Toprove their point, CATwillfeature Challeng- energy and crop value. And less compaction means loads, and that's what causes compaction, Harmon dard I-year or 1,000 hour warranty is guaranteed, er series row crop and tillage tractors at Ag Expo. farmers can get into the fields sooner, when the said but most dealers prefer their customers buy the CAT'srow crop tractors include: the Challenger 35 soils are still weL When weight on back and front axlesdon't equal extended 5-year warranty, Wilkinson said.• with 175horsepower, Challenger 45 loaded with 200 "When you have precious few days, it really Tractors on tracks versus wheels by Tim Harrigan, Associate Professor, They also ranked each in terms of pull, And if power hop is a problem, some of the Ride Equal for Tires and Tracks Agricultural Engineering Department. optimization, ride, steering and cost with the adjustments made to eliminate it may move the There was little difference in average ride Michigan State University following results: tractor away from an optimal setup. Rubber-belted quality between the two systems. T ractors on tracks have been used for decades. Farmers like the flotation characteristics of tracksj however, the older tractors were on rough- Pull a Plus fer Tracks Only the rubber belts were able to deliver 200 drawbar hp at speeds as low as 3 mph. Farmers tractors operate near optimum over a wider range of speeds than tire tractors and with considerably less adjustmenL Steering a Plus for Tires When a rubber belt tractor turns, the outside track speeds up and inside track slows down. The riding steel tracks that were hard to steer and trans- should, however, consider the normal working P.wer Delivery EIIIdenq AFMRCnoted that under draft loads, a rubber track port over the road In the late '80s Caterpillar intro- speed of operation. Orawbar horsepower is the a Slight Plus for Tracks may not steer unless the draft load is reduced. duced the Challenger model tractors - smooth- product of pull times speed, which is more impor- This is a measure of the ability of a traction sys- Tracks also tend to berm'soil in a turn, causing ridg- riding tractors on rubber belts that could easily tant than pul1alone. Both tractors were able to deliv- tem to convert available engine horsepower into use- es and depressions, while tires roll through a turn, travel over the road. er 200 drawbar hp at 5 mph, a typical working speed. ful work on the ground This can make a difference in causing little disturbance. Canadian researchers conducted side-by-side Optimization a Plus for Tracks acres covered per day or fuel burned per acre. Cost a Plus for TintS comparisons of rubber-tracked and wheeled vehi- Optimization is the selection of the correct Tests showed little difference between rubber While cost can vary, rubber belt tractors gen- des in the early '9Os at the Alberta Farm Machinery tractor weight and tire setup for a given speed, pul1 belts and rubber tires, when properly set up. Both erally cost more than equivalent drawbar horsepow- Research Center (AFMRC).They tested a 270 hp and ground conditions. Optimizing a tire tractor had maximum efficiencies near 80 percent, but in er rubber tire tractors. Challenger 65 and a 270 hp 4WD with eight radial involves changing ballast and tire inflation pressure. some tests, the rubber tracks showed a 1 to 3 per- Soil Compaction Unresolved. tires. The main goal of the test was to measure pow- Since many farmers don't understand how to make cent advantage in efficiency. On the farm, the differ- Soil compaction was not measured in the er delivery efficiency - the ability of the traction these adjustments or are reluctant to take time to . ence willdepend on how dose to optimum the tire AFMRCtests .• system to deliver available engine power to the do it, tire tractors often aren't set up properly for tractor is operating. ground as useful working power. optimal performance Frolll the u~U~AND ••• BETWEEN ground up When you need a high-clearance wheel They'll arrive at the best W'ay that can tiptoe through your veg- you r farm ready for to deliver farl11 poW'er. etables or other work. narrow-row crops S0 SEE US AT AG EXPO LOT 111 without damage, for tall look to Unverferth wheels I ~ Manufacturing with nar- Company .. row feet Unverferth has that get up been making special- and over and ty wheels of every between your size and descrip- narrow-row tion for more than crops, see your ROW CROP CHALLENGERS BIG TILLAGE CHALLENGERS 40 years. And 175 PTO HP Model 35 300 Engine HP Model 650 Unverferth 200 PTO HP Model 45 325 Engine HP Model 75C nobOdy makes dealer. He's the 225 PTO HP Model 55 355 Engine HP Model S5C wider variety best source of • Choose from any row crop spacing Low ground pressure, as low as 4.3 psi, from 15 to 40 M M • means less compaction, more yields! for agricul- information you'll • Cultivate with a Challenger to With less than 5% slip and 85% tractive ture than find on speci~lty eliminate pinch row yield reductions. efficiency, Challenger tractors deliver • Unmatched row crop turning ability. the power to the ground with great Unverferth. wheels for agriculture. • At least 53% more footprint than any fuel efficiency . mechanical front-wheel drive tractor. Nine years of proven performance. limeliness is the name of the game in todays modem fanning operations. Challenger tractors will give you the edge in timeliness! Unverferth Manufacturing Company, Inc NOVI GRAND RAPIDS KALKASKA SAGINAW (810) 349-4800 (616) 532-3635 1616) 258-8265 (517) 752-7300 LANSING NOVI ENGINE GRAND RAPIDS ENGINE DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS (517) 699-4800 (810) 349-7050 (616) 538-8070 (810) 348-7810 I rMichilJiD IlEI P.O.Box 357 Kalida, Ohio 45853 SHELBYTWP. KALAMAZOO 1810) 997.5300 (616) 349-8600 FINANCIAL SERVICES (810) 347-6237 Ag Products 1-800-322-6301 ~~I~'I~'m~lK!J~~ June 15, 1996 agriculture has highlighted technology and equip- agronomically, environ- ment While important, they serve only as tools to mentally and economi- either collect information or to perform functions cally?Terra created a based on the information. new position, cropping Precision agriculture's real value for the farm- systems advisor, to pro- er is providing information that allows him to make vide a link between the better decisions. Never before have farmers been massive quantity of data able to gather such large amounts of data about collected about a farm- their land and crops. Allthis information gives them er's cropping system and the power to identify and take control of variables his need to put that they face in their operations: yields, soil type and information to work. chemistry, fertilizer and chemical application, plant- Terra's cropping systems Perry M. Petersen, ing populations, and weed and insect pressures. advisors - such as Ralph c.P. Ag.-CCA Terra has a long-standing commitment to offer Leach in Frankenmuth, Corporate Manager, products and services customers need to maximize Mich. - analyze, main- Precision Agriculture, the efficiency and profitability of their cropping tain and use this infor- Terra Industries Inc. systems. Many of Terra's farm service centers (in- mation to create crop- cluding the 17 in Michigan) now make it possible ping prescriptions for Data collected by yield monitors can be transferred on a PC card for T he history of u.s. Agriculture is a series of technological advances that have boosted farmers' productivity and efficiency. First, there was the move from horsepower to mechani- for farmers to take advantage of the information power that precision agriculture offers. To develop its Precision In Agriculture package, Terra studied and analyzed the equipment and technology associ- customers. Working with mapping on home computers. This data become~ the key to utilizing personal computers and site-specific farming technologies for future crop production decisions. specially developed soft- ware, cropping systems advisors help farmers devices - just some of the ways information power cal power early in this century. Then, the power of ated with precision agriculture; global positioning achieve the most benefit from Terra's precision and precision agriculture will help farmers make science contnbuted improved seed varieties and systems (GPS), geographic information systems agriculture services: better management decisions .• crop protection chemicals after World War II. Now, information power is making a dramatic difference in the way crops are grown as farmers adopt the technologies associated with precision agriculture . (GIS), grid soil sampling, variable rate technology and data management systems. Terra eventually selected Rockwell International's Vision System for the integrated GPS/GIS package that forms the • GPSgrid soil samplingj • database management and storage, including analysis of collected informationj .,Ten'CI PRECISION IN AGRlCUL"TURE • GPS-guided variable rate applications; Precision agriculture may be one of the most backbone of its program. • GPS-guided crop scouting; and Perry M. Petersen, c.P. Ag.-CCA. significant crop production advances in the last 50 Terra also realized it must help farmers ana- • complete map production, including printouts. Corporate Manager, Precision Agriculture years. It has the potential to revolutionize the way lyze and use the information precision agriculture In coming months, this column will cover Terra Industries Inc. farmers collect, analyze and use information about generates. After all, what good is information to a Phone: (BOO)831-1002 & (712) 277-1340 geographic information systems, database manage- Fax: (712) 277-7383 their crop production systems, resulting in greater farmer if he can't use it to benefit his operation ment, and information storage and transportation productivity. The key word here is information, because that's what precision agriculture is all about Much of the attention focused on precision Weedday For over 30 years • isJune26 Telmark Inc. has provided - @ ~ atMichigan State Univ. Lease financing G rowers interested in fine-tuning weed control in row and horticultural crops will find useful for equipment, vehicles & buildings. information at the annual weed tour June 26 at Michigan State University. Tour registration will run from 8:30 to 9 a.m. at the MSUBotany Field Laboratory on the west side of College Road between Jolly and Bennett The morning session begins at 9 a.m. and will focus on weed control in corn and soybeans. The horticulture farm tour will meet at the Advantages of leasing your equipment, Horticulture Field lab on College Road south of Jolly Road at 12:45 p.m. (tour starts at 1 p.m.) buildings and vehicles from Telmark: It will focus on weed control in cole crops, snap beans, tomatoes, peppers and sweet corn . • 100% tax deductible payments The cost is $20 if registration is made prior to • Guaranteed "True Tax" or fixed the tour. Registration the day of the tour will be $25. purchase option leases available The fee covers the tour notebook and the noon meal. Tour registration forms are available from • Fixed, customized schedules MSUExtension county offices. The corn and soybean plots will have signs up • Low upfront costs by Tuesday afternoon at 2 p.m . Farmers and agribusinesses are welcome to • Professional, on-site'service take a self-guided tour of corn and soybeans on Call us for additional information about lease financing for your equipment, buildings and vehicles. Tuesday afternoon (2-6 p.m.), Wednesday afternoon I ~= I Welcome (2-6 p.m.) or anytime on Thursday. A handout de- scribing the self-guided tour will be available by the sign 'Weed Control Tour - Michigan State Universi- . ~~s~~:t;:~ 616-754-1792 MI . ~O~~h~::: 616-659-8915 MI Tel~~ark ( h ~~~Io 517-652-8507 ~~~r~~~acki 616-929-1723 ty' located at the Botany Field Lab on College Road. p oto not There is no fee for the self-guided tour. available) More information about the tour and nearby lodging can be obtained by contacting I I I I Karen Renner at MSUby calling (517) 353-5174. Bill Glunt COlinZehr JiIDMaCKay Ann Briggs The tour is being sponsored by the MSUdepart- Northern IN Grand Rapids Area East Central MI ~ Southeastern MI ments of Crop and Soil Sciences and Horticulture 219-563-1076 f 616-281-9745 517-743-4630 517-349-8698 and MSUExtension. , .' ft96.-...e ........ -- ..... FWd .. The 1996 Plant Problem Diagnosis Field Day willbe held on the MSUCampus Research Farm on Thursday, Aug. 1. This year's field day will focus on See us at MI Ag Expo! corn, soybeans, and alfalfa. Specific topics to be Bring this coupon to Booth #410-411 for a FREE gift. covered are: name • herbicide resistant crops • insect resistant crops address zip • herbicide and weed identification phone ( ) County • corn and soybean root problems • white mold • corn growth stages Details on the field day and registration infor- mation will be available through MSUCATAlerts and MSUExtension County offices by late June. fLYil[~~~~tK?J~~ June 15, 1996 P..;J_ ~I.. ~.; •,e.U mon, ..or,ng ~- I.., -~ - op lm,zes t-- AI' ,rial... .~ by Neil R. Miller crop management Figure 2 - Com Starter Fertilizer 'fHa1 1995 Yield Monitor Results assumption that soil pH management was the • Tillage practices 190 C olor yield maps make expensive wallpaper! principal factor he needed to address in order to • Soil compaction This comment from a crop consultant improve crop yields. Yield monitor results quickly • Hybrid or variety performance • Fertilizer 1 in the Midwest reflects the fascination convinced him, however, that he also needed to pay • Fertility programs 185 many producers and ag industry personnel appear more attention to compaction and tillage practices. • liability and compensation issues • Fertilizer 2 to have with the maps produced by yield monitors. Crop management issues that can be exam- • Etc., etc., etc. 180 Unfortunately, pretty maps alone won't return a ined through yield monitoring include: Computer software can help you quantify these fu dime to the purchaser. Yield monitor data can, how- • Poor drainage and the need for tiling issues with remarkable precision (Figure 1). Further- III "U; 175 ever, produce valuable economic benefits when • Weed management decisions more, they can calculate which factors are most clCRly Gi J::. 1ft used as a tool to improve crop management related to the yield variations recorded on your farm. :s :S 170 The first step in using a yield monitor profitably Figure 1 These critical factors will undoubtedly vary from farm ." is to identify which factors most significantly impact Gi Analysis of Compacted Areas to farm due to differences in soils, cropping systems yields in your farming operation. Many of these fac- and historical management practices. >c: 165 tors willnot be surprising. We all know, for example, Once you've identified your critical management 8 that weed escapes hurt yields. However, most farm- issues, the next step is to examine possible remedies. 160 ers have a hard time quantifying those effects in This may be as simple as calculating which weed es- bushels or dollars. One of the most common com- capes reduced yields enough to outweigh the cost of 155 ments I have heard from my clients who have bought respraying: Or you might estimate how many years it yield monitors is, "Wow,I never realized how much would take to pay for tiling, based on several years of 150 impact weed escapes have on my yields!" yield data from poorly drained areas. Sand Ridge Heavy 5011 Yield monitoring can also identify factors that In some cases, accurate management deci- might otherwise have been overlooked. sions will necessitate controlled strip trials compar- A yield monitor measured the results of One farmer I worked with last fall began with the ing factors such as varieties, tillage practices or fer- this strip trial, in eight replications across tilizers. Many such trials are possible using weigh two soil types, with very'little time demand i\~~\~ o wagons to record yields. But yield monitors vastly simplify the process during harvest when time is beyond normal harvest operations. ~~~\\\~~~ 50 100 150 200 250 300 inevitably at a premium. Farmers who are serious about optimizing crop In one trial, which I harvested with a client last management will use yield monitors to turn their \. Q\\~~\\'Q\\\~.\\\". fall, the only additional time demand over and farming operations into customized experiment $pKu.lIsts In Crop Production Yield monitors can quantify management above normal harvest operations was the 10-15 stations'. If you're looking for attractive wallpaper, the IUtd Protection issues with remarkable precision. Compac- seconds that the monitor needed to calculate yields Home Depot can undoubtedly underbid your ag Neil R. Miller tion in the strip on the left reduced corn Phone: 810-220-1571 at the end of each strip. Yield monitors can also supplier. If you're looking for an education as a crop E-mail: 73072.1314@compuserve.com yields by 13.8 bulA, while yields in the record variation within strips as well as between manager, and aren't afraid of shaking up some long- upper right were reduced 41.9 bulA. strips (Figure 2). held assumptions, yield monitoring is for you .• Look for precision agriculture demonstrations at Ag Expo Continued from front page tion rate, 'then Raven's GPS-Grid Application Sys- along with the grid of the field. Emery speculates that the introduction of yield "We're going to have variations of about 100 tem, is what you need, says Mike Emery of FARM- This file is created on the user's home com- monitors as standard equipment on combines will pounds, depending on the soil," Glaze explained. CO, distnbutor of Raven products in Michigan. Pro- puter, then loaded on a flashdisk. This disk is then spur additional interest and eventual implementa- "In theory, if we had a given soil type that was ex- ducers attending the precision demonstration will used to transfer information between the home tion of precision agriculture on more Michigan tremely high in organic matter and therefore high be able to see the relatively new system up close computer and the Variable Rate Controller on-board farms. Although the interest level of producers has in N, we could go as low as zero." and see how it's hooked into the spray system. the vehicle. grown significantly in the last 8 to 10 months, Emery There's little doubt in Glaze's mind as to what The Raven GPS-Grid Application system auto- The Raven system can be bought as a com- suggests that producers temper their enthusiasm the future holds for precision agriculture and how matically controls the product application rate plete unit that includes both the controller and the and consider the variable rate application segment of well the Rawson hydraulically driven controller will based on location in the field. It's functionally a two- computer to operate the systems software and precision agriculture as the last piece of the puzzle. fit into virtually every phase of crop production. "If part system. The first part is the Grid Development build the grid maps, and can also include the GPS "This (precision agriculture) is still in its infan- we can pump ammonia, then obviously we can System, which is a home computer the user sup- receiver itself, according to Emery. cy enough so that I wouldn't necessarily encourage pump liquids," he said. plies and Raven software. It's used to create the soil In terms of practical application, Emery says somebody to go out and start with a liquid variable "As we get into the future, everybody's planter fertility grids prior to application and analyze data the Raven System willbe used primarily in variable rate system," he cautioned. "I think they need to is going to be variable rate. The same system that logged after application. rate fertility programs, by larger-scale crop produc- have some of the other parts of their program im- drives the planter can be lifted off the planter and The second part of the system is the Raven ers and, eventually, more custom applicator rigs. plemented and documented with some data set onto the sidedress bar," Glaze continued. "The Variable Rate Controller, which is installed on the "There's a fair amount of manpower and legwork before they try to introduce this system into it You producer will also use the same laptop computer, sprayer vehicle. The Variable Rate Controller uses needed to prepare the system to work, in terms of need to have a record of your soil samples over the it'll all be right there in the tractor; it'll just be a differential GPS to determine applicator location. As soil sampling, and reviewing yield maps," Emery course of a few years, as well as your yield monitor matter of hooking the system onto a different tool." positions change, pre-determined application rates advised. "I question whether, at first, a custom ap- samples over the course of a few years before you .... v........ RIIt8 c....~••r are sent to the Raven Console where the variable plicator or cpwill really have the resources and can start trying to apply that information in treating If it's liquid and you need to vary the applica: application rates are stored in an electronic file manpower to get the job done." specific areas of a field differently.". BLU-JET Land Tracked One-Pass Tillage. Cou/terPro shown mounted to the front 3.poinl bitch of the BW-jET Latulfracker. BLU-JETCoulterPro Cuts Down On Your Field TIme. BLU-dET' .....1Jf ~ Kale Marketing • BLU-JET and 1j11erEquiPment Come see us at Ag Expo • Booths 465, 466 & 467 Kale Marketing • 14830 Miller Road • Richwood, Ohio • 800-58-5253 • 614-943a2653 1116 ~~I~'I~~~~~ June 15, 1996 PMdsM John Deere GreenStar combine ~ yield-mapping system by Mary J. Gawenda how do you know what your inputs should ber W ith the introduction of its GreenStar Because all the GreenStar equipment for Precision Farming System, John Deere planters and sprayers hasn't been developed yet, is ready to lead farmers off the fields Penny was unsure if it will be compauble with other and onto the information superhighway. brand equipment The GreenStar System provides some of the Visitors can inspect the display monitor most accurate yield data for farmers looking to and other components of GreenStar at the John optimize land, time and profits, said Doug Penny, Deere's Ag Expo booth and the Field Demo localJohn Deere territory manager. combine should be equipped with the complete The system is easily operated and can be add- system, Penny said .• ed to any John Deere combine dating back to 1989. "Ours is a totally integrative package that ties into the whole machine, where some other systems hang outside (the combine), Penny said. The system takes about one day to install and costs about $8,000. A Global Position Satellite (GPS) receiver is mounted on the top of the combine and acts as an antenna to receive signals from GPS. The satellites were installed by the U.S. military and are scram- Yield measurements are based on a mass-flow key to managing a more productive farm. bled, So 10 other satellites also are used to pinpoint sensor, and moisture readings are collected from a "GreenStar will not save you any money. How- the farmer's location in the field. moisture sensor hooked to the side of the elevator. ever, it willgive you the information to better man- All the information is sent to a display mount- age your farm and hopefully, that way you'll save ed inside the combine cab (see picture). The dis- money," he said. Position Receiver Moss-Flow Sensar play shows moisture readings, productivity data, wet Although precision farming is relatively new, ~ / / Moisture Sensa GreenSlor Display _ and dry bushels per acre, and other information. Deere engineers are already looking to future appli- Convenience in monitoring moisture is a ma- cations of their system for next planting season. jor attraction of John Deere's system, Penny said. "The part that's unique about our (system) is With the GreenStar system, the moisture is figured that we will be able to take the satellite system off automatically, while most other systems require the the combine and install it on a tractor or onto a The GreenStar™ display, a component of driver to stop and sample the crop, he said. sprayer. It's not just a combine mapping system, John Deere's GreenStar Combine Yield- Equipped with a GreenStar position Farmers also can use ~e display to "flag" a you can move it to your tractor in the spring when Mapping System, provides the operator receiver (mounted on top of the cab), this spot in the field where there's a problem, such as a you're planting," Penny said. with on-the-go yield measurement in both combine receives positioning information broken tile, big rock or water gully. Bywatching the But Penny said farmers shouldn't make wet and dry bushels per acre, moisture from as many as eight different satellites display, the farmer can learn harvest quality and any planting changes until a few years of data is readings, productivity data, and other har- to pinpoint the combine's exact position in quantity before leaving the field. collected and analyzed, because fields change vest information. The operator can also use the field. This makes it possible to measure Penny says the information can translate into from year to year. the display to "flag" weedy areas or other and map yield and other harvest data in savings in time and fuel, but farmers won't automat- "The first leg of precision farming is to field conditions as they are encountered wheat corn, soybeans, oats, rice, sorghum, ically save money by having the GreenStar system. know exactly what your outputs are. Because during harvest recording them for future barley and many other small-grain crops. Analyzing and applying several years of data is the without knowing what your outputs are at the end, analysis or to generate a map. • • • Insuron(e ISno 0((1 en • Member Health Insurance from Michigan Farm Bureau For over 40 years, Farm Bureau and Blue Cross Blue Shield have teamed up to provide quality health care at competitive. group rates with the personalized service you would expect from a Farm Bureau membership. No matter what your needs ... small business, sole proprietor, Medicare supplemental or individual coverage for you or your family - we have the right plan at the right price. rl~~;;~~~~~;~~~~~~~~~~~~~;'1 OR MAIL THIS COUPON TO: MFB HEALTH SERVICES,P.O. BOX 30960, LANSING, MI 48909 I Individual/family coverage - for people who don't have employment-based coverage. I I Small group coverage - for farm and small business owners. I I Medicare supplemental coverage - for seniors over 65. I I NAME I I ADDRESS I I CITY STATE ZIP SI ... ••• MICHIGAN FARM BIJREAIJ ILTELEPHONE COUNTY i ~I I ~'41@; I@;J:i!] ~ I~'I:l'''..0~ ~ ~~'! ~ June 15, 1996 Something for everyone to Michigan Farm Bureau's bid on at the third annual Summerfest scheduled FFA Silent Auction! for June 26 O ver $6,000 worth of items including collect- ible tractors, limited edition artist's prints and computer software have been donated to benefit Michigan Farm Radio Network tent (Lot 307) near the entrance of the expo grounds. Items will be delivered upon receipt of the the third annual FFASilent Auction at the 1996 Ag donation "either by mail or through the vendors Expo. Anyone can bid on the items during the supplying the donated article. three-day event, with the highest bidders taking Bid early and bid often! All proceeds will go to home the merchandise. the Michigan FFAFoundation to support leadership A~o.taIls activities and conferences for FFAstudents, and The auction will run from 9 a.m. on Tuesday, agriscience education. The silent auction is being June 25 through noon on Thursday,June 27 on coordinated by the Past State Officers FFAAlumni the grounds of the expo sight All items will be Affiliate. displayed or represented with a bid sheet in the Ust/ng of Items - w.tch for.,. updated list lit Ag &PO! Item Business 5 gal. - Baler's Choice Hay Preservative Ag-Hap Inc. Bags of Alfalfa Seed AgriPro Seeds 10 bags of RoundUp-Ready Soybeans Asgrow Seed Co. Buffalo Farm Eqpt. Jacket and Hats ~ Buffalo Farm Equipment All-Poly Feed Bunk Model PFB-10 Countrymark Co-op John Deere 1930 "GP" Collector Tractor D&G Equipment 1 bag corn, soybean, alfalfa Dairyland Seed Dekalb boar Dekalb Swine Breeders, Inc. DuraTech Hay Grinder Collectible DuraTechlHaybuster I DuraTech Big Bale Buster Collectible DuraTechlHaybuster addition n to Ag Expo, Michigan State Universi- Typical Summerfest activities, including a beef Computer Farming Game Farm Works Software ty will once again play host to MFB's tenth and pork barbecue and games for the kids, will be Set of four Silvermark Passenger Car Tires Farmers Petroleum Co-op. annual Summerfest event this year on June 26 running in conjunction with the 1fuck Drive and Camspray model1000A powerwasher Gilbert Sales and Service at the 4-H youth show facility located at the Farm Ride. You can also kick up your heels to the music Cecil Fielder Autographed Jersey Gordon LaFontaine Service Center on College Road. In addition to the of the country rock band, "The Last Ride." " 5 gal. - Hotsy Carbonate plus vehicle wash soap with wax, pole and brush Great Lakes Cleaning Systems date change, this year's activities will also include a Weather permitting, parking will be available Port-a-Hut Growe Systems, Inc. Truck Drive and Ride, replacing last year's Truck at the Summerfest site this yeat: However, in the H&S Manufacturing Jackets and Hats H&S Manufacturing Showdown event event of rain, Kovacic suggests that Summerfest Two 50cc Pistol Grip Syringes Ideal Instruments According.to MFBSummerfest event manager participants check in at the MFBAg Expo Tent for John Deere Belt Buckles, Hats, Jacket John Deere Co. Mike Kovacic, the 'fruck Drive and Ride will allow further parking instructions and transportation to Kill Bros. Hats Kill Bros. interested MFB members to actually test-drive new the Summerfest site. John Deere DC-3 Airplane Bank Litchfield Farm Equipment Michigan CAT Spring Jacket Michigan CAT Dodge pickups in off-road conditions. "This pro- Tickets for Summerfest must be purchased in 16' White Painted Flagpole Mid-Michigan Snow Equipment gram format will allow more individuals to actually advance and are still just $5. The ticket is good for Limited Edition Framed Artist's Proof Pharmacia & UpJohn test-drive a new truck as opposed to just watching all of the events, including your choice of a pork or Corona Pruners, Bow Saws, Sunbeam the trucks being driven by someone else," he said, beef dinner, the games, the barn dance and the Outdoor Thermometer Plummer Supply, Inc. referring to last year's 'fruck Showdown, which was Truck Drive and Ride. Collectable Tractor _ Salisbury Mgt. limited to just 12 drivers. Make plans to be part of the biggest event of 1/64 Scale Brent Dual-Wheeled Grain Carts Unverferth Mfg. Co., Inc. Dairy Plan 4.4 Dairy Herd Mgt. Software Westfalia Systemat, Inc. Summerfest participants interested in the the summer - Summerfest '96 at Michigan State Ford-New Holland 8670 Collector Tractor Williams Farm Machinery Truck Drive and Ride, which is scheduled from 4 to University, June 26. Limited Edition Artist's Proof (full size) Southpaw Studio 7 p.m., will need to sign a damage and liability waiv- Contact your county Fann Bureau for 8 - Limited Edition Artist's Proofs (small size) Southpaw Studio er and show a valid Michigan driver license before more information, or for last minute Summerfest 7' Round Bale Feeder Weldy Enterprises driving a new Dodge truck on a course around ticket orders call Michigan Farm Bureau at Monitor Gift Basket Monitor Sugar Co. MSU's research farm. 800-292-2680, ext. 3204 .• (tMiiiNJ RADIO NETWORK Serving Michigan farm families is our only business S ince its beginning in 1971, Michigan Farm Radio Network's only objective has been to serve Michigan's farm families. This dedication to serve agriculture is shared by 26 local radio stations in Michigan. Through these stations, Michigan Farm Radio Network provides the latest in market analysis, weather and news to Farm Bureau members daily on the following stations: Station City Frequency Morning Report Noon Report WABJ Adrian 1490 5:45 am 11:05-12:00 pm WATZ Alpena 1450 5:30 am 11:30 am WTKA Ann Arbor 1050 6:05 am 12:00-1:00 pm WLEW Bad Axe 1340 6:30 am 12:50 pm WHFB Benton Harbor 1060 12:15 pm f' . WKJF WKYO Cadillac Caro 1370 1360 5:45 am 6:15 am 11:10 am 12:10-1:00 pm t¥tJ . WTVB WDOW Coldwater Dowagiac 1590 1440 5:45 am 6:05 am 12:00-1:00 pm 12:15 pm 1996 Farm Bureau Family of WGHN AM Grand Haven 1370 5:45 am 12:15 pm WGHN FM Grand Haven 92.1 5:45 am 12:15 pm Companies Ag Expo exhibit WPLB Greenville 1380 6:15 am 11:50 am WBCH WCSR Hastings Hillsdale 1220 1340 6:15 am 6:45 am 12:30 pm 12:45 pm T hose visiting the 1996 Ag Expo will find the Farm Bureau Family of Companies in the big red and white tent located in the center of the Expo from MFBGroup Purchasingj and insurance services from Farm Bureau Insurance. Dodge trucks will also be on-hand promoting Farm WHTC Holland 1450 12:15 pm grounds. Personnel from Michigan Farm Bureau Bureaus $500 cash back on selected Dodge trucks. WKZO Kalamazoo 590 5:00-6:00 am 12:00-1:00 pm and all affiliate companies will be available to Just for fun, a race track will be set up in the WPLBFM lakeview 106.3 6:15 am 1.2:15pm discuss a full array of member benefits, programs, center of the tent where individuals 16 and older WOAP Owosso 1080 7:15 am 12:40 pm products and services. can test their skills in guiding a remote controlled WHAK Rogers City 960 12:15 pm Expo attendees will be able to learn about battery operated truck through an obstacle course. WSJ St. Johns 1580 6:15 am 12:05-1:05 pm member benefits, programs and services from Mich- Alldrivers participating in the Mini Truck Challenge WMlM St. louis 1520 6:05 am 12:20 pm igan Farm Bureauj petroleum and farm supplies will receive a Family of Company prize for the WSGW Saginaw 790 5:55 am 11:30-12:30 pm from Farmers Petroleum Cooperative; marketing efforts - top finishers will receive additional prizes. WMIC Sandusky 660 6:15 am 12:45 pm services from Michigan Agricultural Cooperative The track will be in operation from 9:00 a.m to Marketing Associationj tillage tools and equipment 3:00p.m. WKJCFM Tawas City 104.7 t 12:40 pm WlKM Three Rivers 1510 5:45 am 12:15 pm WTCM Traverse City 580 5:45 am 11:10am ~~aro:ITi1]l~'I~~Dl!t ~~ June 15, 1996 II Central Exhibit Area PHONES FOOD oI TENT C I Del - ~OILETSI NORTH IrOILETsl FIRSb TENT A AID I TENT B I D Hoo. D PHONES r--- 513 FOURTH STREET ~ MAIN ,...--. 188 ............. cr III c:o III ,... It) CD an III It) .. It) ~ 514 515 ENTRANCE ~ cr c:o ,... M M M to M an .. M M N m cr c:o ,... CD 187 It) 1.0 It) an an It) It) ~ in ill ill ill ~ ~186 THIRD STREET ~O ~ 184 UJ ::J .... cr ... c:o 'or 183 z ,...--.~ 182 ([ ~ SECOND \8\ .. u cr c:o ,... to \;i III 'or .. 'or ..... ANIMAL .......... M cr c:o N M N M ,... N M to N M It) N ~UJ .. Z "w N> ::J ([ HANDLING FIRST STREET DEMONSTRA nONS I~I~I~I~ ITOILETSI .... IT ,... II) ,... '" ,... ,... Ul In '" '" ,...'" ,... ,... .. ~OILETSI USDA DRIVE A & T ENTERPRISES Tent A DOUBLE S LIQUID FEEDSERV INC 262 MARTING MFG OF IA INC 712 SCHRADER/BROKERAGE LAND CO Tent A A K EQUIPMENT 253 DURATECH INDUSTRIES INTL. 272 MATHEWS CO 846 SEARLESPRESSUREWASHERS INC 254 ABS GLOBAL INC Tent B E-Z BRUSH & OILER Tent A McCORMICK EQUIPMENT CO 554 SEED MART INC Tent B ABSOLUTE CLEANING SYSTEMS 747 E-Z LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT CO 181 MDNR - WILDLIFE DIV Tent A SEIFERTSALES/AGRI MOTIVE PROD 264 ADL AG SALES 260 EASTERN FARM MACHINERY LTD 488 MELROE CO 351 SHIWERS 167 AEROTECH INC 206 ENERCRAFT SILVA SAW LTD 182 MENSCH MFG _ 116 SIERRA INDUSTRIES Tent A AERWAY/HOLlAND EQUIPMENT 213 ENVIROLAND INC Tent B MICHIGAN AG STATISTICSSERV Tent B SIKKEMA'S EQUIPMENT 819 AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO INC 514 ENVIROTEC GRAIN BURNING STOVES 169 MICHIGAN AGRI-SYSTEMS INC 157 SIMON'S PLANING MILL INC 119 AG-HAP INc. 220 EXPRESSFLIGHTING SUPPLy Tent A MICHIGAN AG ELECTRICCOUNCIL Tent A SIREPOWER Tent A AGCO CORP 565 FARM BAG SUPPLYINC 404 MICHIGAN AMOCO DISTRIBUTORS 808 SKORY COMMUNICATIONS Tent A AGRI SALES ASSOCIATES Tent B FARM CREDIT SERVICES OF MICH 721 MICHIGAN CAT 111 SLF MANAGEMENT SERVICES INC Tent A AGRI-SCIFOUR STAR SERVICESINC Tent A FARM WORKS SOFTWARE-. Tent A MICHIGAN CHIEF SALES 310 SOLAR BARNS Tent A AGRIPRO SEEDSINc. Tent B FARM CO DISTRIBunNG INC 201 MICHIGAN CORN GROWERS ASSN 403 SPARTAN OIL CORP 480 AGRO-CULTURE LIQUID FERTILIZERS 444 FARMERS ADVANCE 106 MICHIGAN CROP IMPROVEMENT ASSN Tent A STAR INDUSTRIAL 309 AIS COMPANIES 510 FERTILIZERDEALER SUPPLYINC 267 MICHIGAN DEPT OF AGRICULTURE Tent A STINE SEED CO Tent A AL'S IMPLEMENT CO INC 707 FETERLMFG CO 265 MICH DEPT OF ENVIRON QUALITY Tent A SUCCESSFUL FARMING Tent B ALFA LAVAL AGRI 561 FOXWORTHY SUPPLy 705 MICHIGAN ELK BREEDERSASSN 170 SUNFLOWER MFG 458 ALO NORTH AMERICA INC 452 FURST-McNESSlMIRACLE FEEDS Tent A MICHIGAN EMU GROWERS ASSN 821 SUPERIORIMPLEMENT & SUPPLY CO 503 ALPINE PLANT FOODS LTD 352 GILBERT & RIPLO CO INC 544 MIClilGAII FARM BUREAU 248 SWARTZ TRAILER SALES 845 AMD-TERRA PLANE 374 GILBERT SALES & SERVICEINC 822 MICHIGAN FARM RADIO NETWORK _ 306 TSM SERVICESINC 556 AMERICAN FARM MORTGAGE. Tent A GOLDEN HARVEST SEEDS 451 MICHIGAN FARM SYSTEMS INC 102 TABER AND OTTENWESS INC 748 APACHE MANUFACTURING 321 GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER CO 744 MICHIGAN FILTRATIONINC Tent B TELMARK INC ..... _ __ _ _ _._ •• 410 APLIN & BARRETT Tent B GREAT LAKES CHPT AM OSTRICH ASSN 266 MICHIGAN GLASS LINED STORAGE 461 THUMB FARM NEWS Tent A AQUA II MANUFACTURING INC 445 GREAT LAKES CLEANING SYSTEMS. 715 MICHIGAN HORSE COUNCIL 104 THUMB TRUCK EQUIPMENT INC 355 ARNOLD STEELSERVICE 749 GREAT LAKES HYBRIDS INC Tent B MICHIGAN LLAMA ASSN 711 TIRE WHOLESALERS CO INC 814 ASGROW SEED COMPANY Tent A GRIES SEED FARMS INC Tent A MICHIGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSN 435 TOP-AIR MANUFACTURING INC 549 AUTO-WARES/AUTO VALUE Tent A GROWE SYSTEMS INC 207 MICHIGAN RURAL SAFETY COUNCIL Tent B TOTAL PETROLEUM INC 608 BABSON BROS CO "SURGE" 154 GROWERS FERTILIZERSOLUTIONS 369 MICHIGAN SOYBEAN PROMO COMM 305 TRACTOR SUPPLYCO 708 BACHTOLD BROS INC Tent B GUTWEIN SEEDS Tent A MICHIGAN STATESEED 221 TRI-STATE SCABBLING INC Tent A BADGER NORTHLAND INC 318 H & S MFG CO INC 438 MICHIGAN VALLEY IRRIGATION INC 486 TRUCK & TRAILER EQUIPMENT 105 BATCO MFG LTD 713 HALDERMAN FARM MANAGEMENT : TENT B MICHIGAN ZETOR TRACTOR DEALERS 313 US ALLOYS Tent A BEARD INDUSTRIES 149 HAMILTON DISTRIBUTING CO 360 MID-MICHIGAN SNOW EQUIPMENT 373 UFT-UNITED FARM TOOLS INC __ .. 714 BJ HYDRAULICS INC Tent A HARDIINC 546 MILK-RITE USA Tent A UNITED DAIRY INDUSTRY OF MI Tent B BLACK'S CONCRETE GROOVING Tent B HARVEST AG SYSTEMS 344 MITCHELL EQUIPMENT 346 UNVERFERTH MFG CO INC _._._ ••_ 405 BOB EQUIPMENT CO INC 418 HAVILAND DRAINAGE PRODUCTS CO 375 MJK PURVEYORS 401 USDA/APHIS VS Tent A BOU-MATIC 246 HERBRUCK POULTRY RANCH Tent B MODERN METALCRAFT INC 121 USDA/FSA Tent A BROCKER FARM SALES 851 HERITAGE EQUIPMENT 164 MODRESKE FENCE LIVESTOCK EQT 813 USDA/NRCS 610 BROOKSIDE LABORATORIES INC 718 HINIKER COMPANY 205 MOM & POP PRODUCTS CO Tent B USDA/OFFICE OF RISK MGT Tent A BUFFALO FARM EQT (FLEISCHERMFG)sr 464 HOLSTEIN ASSN USA INC Tent A MONITOR SUGAR Co. Tent A VALLEY TRUCK PARTS 607 BUSH HOG 303 HUSKY FARM EQUIPMENT 810 MOORMANS INC 815 VAN DALE -DIV OF J-STAR 454 BUTLERGRAIN SYSTEMs/SUKUP MFG 168 ICI SEEDS Tent B MORTON BUILDINGS INC 256 VERMEER MFG CO 809 C & G PRODUCTSINUTECH Tent B ICMPA Tent A MUNSELL ENTERPRISES 171 VERSA-TEETH INC/FISHER MFG 548 C E SALES & SERVICE INC 345 INLAND PLASTICS LTD Tent A MYCOGEN SEEDS 460 VITTETOE CHAFF SPREADERINC Tent A CALLAHAN SEEDS Tent A J R SALES & MACHINERY SERVICEINC 818 NAPA AUTO PARTS Tent B WAHPETON CANVAS CO SO INC 269 CASE CORPORATION 516 J & D MFG 553 NATIONAL FARMERS ORGANIZATION Tent A WALINGA INC 148 CENTRAL MI TRACTOR PARTS 420 J HOULE & FILSINC 109 NOBA INC Tent A WALTERS BUILDINGS 152 CENTRAL PETROLEUM CO 252 J-STAR INDUSTRIESINC 571 NORCAN FARM EQUIPMENT CORP 417 WELDY ENTERPRISEs.. 251 CHEMICAL FERTILIZERSUPPLy 367 JAMBOREE ACRES 717 NORTH AMERICAN SEED GROUP 606 WESTERN SALES INC 217 CHIEF INDUSTRIES INC 108 JET COMPANY INC 471 NORTH POINTE INSURANCE CO Tent B WESTFALIA SYSTEMAT INc. 811 CHROUCH COMMUNICATIONS INC Tent A JM INNOVATIONS INC 848 NORTHSTAR-SELECTSIRES Tent A WICK BUILDINGS 117 CIBA SEEDS 485 JOHN DEERECOMPANY 504 NTH INC 551 WILES FARM SERVICE 165 CIRCLE B MFG INC 209 JOHN OAKLEY SEEDSMAN 245 NUHN INDUSTRIES 244 WILLIAMS FARM MACH (NEW HOLLAND 436 CONSERVATION RESOURCECENTER Tent A JOHNSON SYSTEM INC 849 OLSON TIRE SERVICE 151 WONSER SUPPLYCO (FLOYD) 701 CONSUMERS POWER COMPANy Tent B KALE MARKmNG INC _ _ _ 465 PATZ SALES INC 429 WOOD-MIZER PRODUCTS 601 COOMER SEEDSINC Tent B KASCO MFG CO INC 214 PAUL MUELLER COMPANy 145 WOODS EQUIPMENT CO 426 CORLAND SEEDSLTD Tent B KAWASAKI MOTORS 183 PHEASANTS FOREVEROF MICHIGAN Tent A THE WRIGHT PLACE 103 COUNTRY TRAILERS 817 KELLY MANUFACTURING INC 552 PICKETT EQUIPMENT 366 YETTER FARM EQUIPMENT _ _ 218 COUNTRYMARK CO-Or. 500 KENT FEEDSINC Tent A PIONEERHI-BRED INTL INC Tent A COVER-ALL SHELTERSINC 719 KIETZMAN NO-TILL 720 PLUMMER SUPPLYINC. 274 COWCO INC 456 KILL BROTHERSCOMPANY 364 POLY DOME 158 CROW'S HYBRID CORN CO 545 KIMBALL PRODUCTS INC 370 POWER EQUIPMENT DISTRIBUTORSINC 255 MSU DEPARTMENTAL EXHIBITS D & K TRUCK CO 204 KINZE DEALERS OF MICHIGAN 573 PRICE'STRAILER CENTER 270 AGRIBUSINESS MGT PROGRAM 23 DAIRYLAND SEED CO INC. Tent A KONGSKILDE CORPORATION 513 PRO-SEED INC .... _ .... __ __ ••_ _. __ .. TENT A AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING 32 DAN'S TRUCK EQUIPMENT 219 KRANZ & ASSC TELESCOPING POLES 275 PROLIME CORPORATION 557 ANR ALUMNI ASSOCIATION 27 DATA TRANSMISSION NETWORK CORP Tent B KUBOTA TRACTOR CORP 536 PROTIVA - DIV OF MONSANTO 146 ANR COLLEGE PROGRAMS 51 DAVIDSON HOOF/TRIMM CEMENT FLR Tent B L W MEYER & SON 564 QUALITY FARM & FLEET 605 CROP & SOIL SCIENCES 43 DECKER & CO INC 160 LABARGE EQUIPMENT CO 473 QUALITY METAL WORKS 816 FISHERIES& WILDLIFE 49 DEKALB GENETICS CORr. Tent B LADDER WORKS INC Tent B RANCH LIFEPLASTICS 271 FORESTRY 46 DELLINGERSTRAILER SALES 463 LESTER BUILDING SYSTEMS ._ _ 468 RENK SEEDCO Tent A GROUNDWATER STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM 26 DENNINGS AND ASSOCATES 718 LG SEEDS-AMCORN DIVISION 482 RICHARDTON MFG CO 844 INSTITUTE OF WATER RESEARCH 42 DETROIT EDISON Tent A L1PHATECHINC Tent A RICHLAND SALES CORP 115 LIBRARY OUTREACH SERVICES 30 DHIA Tent A LITCHFIELD ANALYTICAL SERVICEs., Tent B RITCHIE LIVESTOCK FOUNTAINS 535 MSUE PUBLICATIONS 22 DIESELEQUIPMENT SALES & SERV Tent A LUBECON SYSTEMS INC Tent B RUPPSEEDINC Tent A MSU MUSEUM 21 DMClDAVID MFG CO 156 LUSTRECRAFT INTL Tent B S I DISTRIBUTING INC 431 PUBLIC SAFETY 28 DMIINC 113 M & WISERVIS-RHINO/FUERST BROS 210 S I FEEDERSDIV OF SCHOESSOW 163 PULMONARY MEDICINE 25 DON THEMM ENTERPRISESINC 320 MAC DON INDUSTRIES LTD 371 SALISBURY MGT SERVICEs., Tent B TELFARMIMIC ROTEL 23 THE DONAHUE CORPORATION 144 MAPLE LANE AG-BAG 457 SAM'S CLUB 362 VETERINARY MEDICINE 48 RED = Look for .their ad in this issue of the Michigan Farm News .• = Bid on their donation to the FFASilent Audion in tent 306. LDI~~U~=l'!t~ June 15, 1996 Avoiding common TMR problems Theprinciple behind the B y most standards, total mixed rations mixing instructions include not only an ingredients (TMRs)are the preferred method for feeding dairy herds, especially in situa- tions where herd averages demand precise feed list, but also a procedure for how and when various feed items should be added. "Mo;t mixers will work better if some of the grains are put in first, such as IIReel" in Reel Auggie ration formulations. But regardless of how good com or com silage, then the haylage with the rest of a nutritionist you work with, or the quality of the the grain and mineral placed on top," he said. feed you have on hand, there's still plenty of oppor- Incremental adjustments to allow for in- tunity for your ration to fall shon of expectations, creased/decreased feed consumption levels is cautions MSU'sDr. Herb Bucholtz, professor in the another critical item that should be included with Animal Science Department feed instruction sheets to ensure that all of the TMRvariation due to changing dry matter or ingredients are adjusted properly. Bucholtz says moisture levels, mixing instructions and proce- that, depending on the ration program being used, dures, scale accuracy, personnel skill level and producers can elect to have incremental feed levels changes in feed can provide a recipe for failure based on a per-cow basis or, in larger herd group sizes, based on five-cow increments. "If you're feeding 5,000 pounds ofTMR and the cows have it all cleaned up and you think you should add 200 pounds - what do you do?" Bucholtz asked. "Youwant something out there on that in- struction sheet that doesn't require the per- son doing the feeding to make a calculating decision at that time." Scale AcaI..., Although not a pre- ince its introduction in 1988, the Reel silage. Accurate control of each ingredient through valent problem, Bucholtz says producers often overlook the obvious of S Auggie mixer, patented and produced by Knight Manufacturing in Wis., has won over several loyal producers. The reel design eliminates the use of scales helps to reduce cost and eliminates over-feeding. Other advantages of the reel design in- clude reduced mixing time, reduced power require- checking scale accuracy much of the force and pressure inherent in mo;t au- ments, less machine wear and fewer dead spots. when trying to determine ger-style mixers, vinually eliminating compaction of Each Reel Auggie features a dust-free oil bath Personnel are often a key ingredient in mixing TMRs. why feed consumption feed, resulting inless fiber breakdown and fewer fines. on its primary drives. Smaller models feature rug- may be off For an added Feed ingredients are blended by the gentle ged front primary drives, while the two larger units when trying to fine-tune your herd's rations, boost margin of safety, he suggests checking the mixer lifting, fluffing and tumbling action of the patented feature a rear drive unit production, and ultimately increase net revenue. scales for accuracy once per month using a standard large-diameter reel which leaves the ingredients Another feature is the faster unloading time "The old rule of thumb is that feed co;ts are unit of weight, such as a tractor suitcase weight. loose and whole - not crushed - and in a more thanks to a simple slide tray discharge chute located 50 percent of the cost of prexiucing milk - this year While quick to acknowledge the benefits of palatable condition. next to the lower mixing auger. The Reel Auggie is it's probably more than that," Bucholtz suggested. mixing feed, Bucholtz says weighing the individual Most nutritionists agree that longer dry hay available in tow, truck and stationary models, with "If a farmer wants to stan looking at where he can feed ingredients provides the real pay-off in TMRs. helps activate the rumen for improved digestion in capacities ranging from 147 to 600 cubic feet. get a handle on controlling co;ts and influencing "Without accurate scales, it's almo;t senseless to cattle and improved production, the nutrition program should be the even balance the ration because there's no degree weight gains, better milk Front end view with Hay-lfllax Installed first thing to be looked at" of accuracy," he explained. production and improved Bucholtz will be doing presentations on con- FeedI .. Fn..... c, animal health. The Reel trolling TMRvariation at MSU's Ag Expo,]une 25-27, While many producers feed twice per day, Auggie can easily handle during the animal handling demonstrations at 11 or more often to encourage feed consumption, long stem hay in small a.m. and 1:30 p.m. each day. A large pan of that Bucholtz says more producers are going to once- square bales, wafers of presentation will focus on dry matter and moisture per-day feeding as a way to save on labor and to large square bales, and •.~l_. levels of individual feed items and the total ration. """1Ig CnIdaI Are you and your nutritionist comparing ap- keep an adequate supply of feed in front of the cow at all times. During high summer temperatures, however, feed may stan to heat up and go out of broken up round bales, with an optional hay kit. Aside from benefits ples to apples when talking about dry matter and condition, requiring multiple feedings. "Wesee to the animals, significant feed volume? Bucholtz says that while most feed many farms feeding once per day and doing very, feed co;t savings are pos- rations are calculated on a dry-matter basis, most very well," Bucholtz claimed, "and from a labor sible. The reel design eas- feed ingredients are added to the mixer on a wet- standpoint it makes a lot of sense." ilyblends inexpensive by- matter basis, meaning that conversions must be .... SIIeIIId p---- V.. __ 7 products such as cotton done accurately, and moisture tests conducted at While individual skill level and comprehension seed, wheat mids, brew- least weekly to avoid costly complications. of computer ration balancing programs obviously ers grain and sweet corn "Allof the problems producers had with corn varies, Bucholtz recommends that all producers, silage and high moisture corn this past year could at a minimum, play an active role in working with have been avoided if they had simply used a S200 their nutritionist to balance their TMRs. In an ideal moisture tester to test this stuff," Bucholtz ex- situation, he suggests that a producer have his own plained. "For a person running TMRsand making ration program, such as MSU'sSpartan ration pro- corn silage and haylage, not having a moisture gram, to evaluate the nutritionist's ration recom- tester is like owning a chopper but not having a mendations. ......~.dI._ ............ tractor to run it with." Proper mixing instruction and well-trained per- "For a producer to tell a nutritionist, 'you develop the ration and I'll feed it,' is really saying 'I don't want to be involved in a tremendously sonnel go hand in hand in getting the desired ration important pan of the dairy management program,' actually delivered to the cow. Bucholtz suggests that which is foolish," Bucholtz concluded .• Animal handling demonstrations to focus on managing total mixed rations Continued from front page matter and moisture calculation demonstrations, He'll provide some helpful take-home tips produc- minimizing ration variation, and avoiding problems ers can use on the imponance of panicle length with "hot dairy rations" for high-producing herds. • The latest in engineering and • John Deere diesel engine and proper mixing procedures in TMRprocessing, "If we're going to make TMRswork, we really computerized spray technology • Reduced crop damage as well as the pro; and cons of various mixer wag- need to be accurate in measuring the components • The only self-propelled sprayer • 18-Foot turning radius ons (drum vs. auger, etc.) that go in - which implies testing of our feeds in with three spray options • Adjustable wheel spacings "Dr. Buckmaster has done a great deal of work advance and then measuring these feeds accurately," • Penetrate the crop canopy • 4-Foot crop clearance on the importance of controlling panicle length," Bicken suggested. "Allof this means that we may with minimal carrier I Bicken explained. "Many times, because we're not need to fine-tune some of our management skills." • Optimal spray coverage maxi- filling the mixer correctly or because we're running Although there won't be a side-by-side compar- mizes chemical effectiveness the mixer too long, we're altering the particle size ison of mixers, Bicken expects the demonstration more than we realize." willarm producers with enough information to then Call for details and see us at Ag Expo - Booth 311 MSU's Dr. Herb Bucholtz, professor in the visit commercial exhibits and ask the right questions Animal Sciences depanment, will also provide at- to ensure they pick a mixer that best meets their tendees with some helpful tips on avoiding com- particular need - both in type and size.• mon problems associated with TMRs,including dry 3688~~~~~~ ~~de~~!:!~~~~800) 527-5607 Want to improve your TMRs? Design considerations Cut your mixing time! for fence-line bunks -Based on my experience, I can't Imagine For some of the rations, the haylage was replaced needing to mix a TMR for more than eight with alfalfa hay. During the experiment, the mixer minutes - from start to flnlsh!- Dr. Dennis Buckmaster, Penn State University was not running during loading. Mixingtimes were varied from four to 32 minutes. A post and rail feeding fence is usually used for fence-line feeding, such as in a drive-through freestall barn, since the design lends itself well to permit selective feeding. A lever mechanism opens or closes all headgates simultaneously. Desirable features include individual or group cow release, I you f want to improve your TMR, save fuel, time, and wear and tear on your mixer wagon, then reduce your mixing time, advises Penn. State's Dr. The results were surprising. While uniformity . of blend improved with more mixing time, particle size suffered. There was a significant reduction in the mixer wagons and larger herd sizes. Before rushing out to build a fenceline bunk, however, there are a self-locking headgates as the cow lowers her head to eat, and a quick release for downed cows. few design basics worth considering. As an added measure to protect your invest- Dennis Buckmaster, associate professor in Agricul- percentage of mass consisting oflong particles as MSUAg Engineer BillBickert recommends ment in the fence-line feedbunk, consider adding tural and Biological Engineering. He says that while mixing time increased from four to eight minutes, elevating the floor of the feedbunk three to six a curb next to the manger wall, says Bickert, to it's not uncommon for producers to run their mix- from eight to 16 minutes and from 16to 32 minutes. inches above the cow alley to provide the cow protect it while scraping manure. limit the width ers the entire time they're adding feed, they may be "This study showed that not only do you break a natural grazing-like position. He also suggests of the curb, however, to two to six inches on the doing more harm than good by seriously reducing down the larger particles into smaller ones, the that the floor of the bunk be smooth and clean cow side of the manger wall to avoid the possibility particle length. smaller particles also get even smaller during extend- to encourage feed intake. of the curb being used as a step by the cow. "It's not uncommon for mixers to be running ed mixing," Buckmaster warned. "Mixingbeyond five In new construction situations, he advises The manger wall, usually made of poured 30 minutes - that's just too long," Buckmaster said. to eight minutes isn't likelyto improve uniformity." using high-strength concrete (4,500) psi) to prolong concrete, should be no more than 21 inches tall "Myrecommendation is to fill the mixer, put every- While the study was conducted using an auger the condition of the manger surface used for feed- from the cow alley floor. In cases where feed panels thing in there, and then turn it on and - depending mixer, Buckmaster says the particle size in reel and ing silage and other feeds that tend to etch the con- or headgates aren't used, Bicken recommends that on the feed being mixed and the brand of mixer drum mixers can also be reduced with needless crete. Producers can also line the bunk floor with an upper rail, constructed of either cable, pipe or being used - start to unload it four to eight min- mixing time. Decisions affecting which mixer to use reSistant material such as ceramic tile. In situations plank, be located approximately 48 inches from the utes later and unload it as quick as you can." should hinge on whether a producer plans to be where wood is used, Bickert encourages producers cow alley floor.• Buckmaster willbe presenting TMRmixer tips adding dry hay to the ration to improve particle to inspect and repair during the animal handling demonstrations at MSU's length. If a producer has other means for chopping worn and splintered Post and Rail Feeding Fence for Cows Ag Expo on June 25-27at 11a.m. and 1:30 p.m. each dry hay, a drum mixer would be equally suitable to surfaces as soon as 8" day.While the focus on rations has generally dealt either the auger or reel mixers, which can be outfit- possible. 2- dia. rail, with the nutritional aspects, Buckmaster says the ted with hay kits. Spacing is equally bolt to post issue of particle length, credited with improving If your ration particle length is less than ideal, important to encourage- salivaflow,rumen health and butterfat tests, is start- Buckmaster says adding dry hay is an excellent way ing maximum feed in- ing to receive its proper attention as well. to improve the ration, provided the mixer isn't run block at post take. Bickert recom- "If you've got a group of cows with a 16,000 too long. "It's amazing what a couple bales of hay in mends that producers pound herd average, you probably won't have too a relatively large ration can tip - it really makes a use the figures in Tables much trouble meeting their nutritional demands, difference," he said 1 and 2 in situations both in terms of chemical and physical form," he So what is the ideal particle length? Buckmas- p05torplpe where cows are all ex- supports, 8- o.d. explained. "But as averages go up to 25,000 and ter says that storage considerations should be the pected to eat at once. 30,000 pounds, we need to pay more attention to deciding factor in determining length of cut and In situations where cows the physical characteristics or particle size." that there may be a trade-off between getting the will have access to feed manger wall Buckmaster conducted a study on mixing right cut for storage versus ideal length for feeding. most of the day, 18 to 24 times and measured corresponding reductions in "What most people talk about is a theoretical length inches per cow should particle length and distnbution using a four-auger of % of an inch," he said. "If you chop a % to Yi inch be adequate. Bunk mixer. The rations contained alfalfa haylage, corn length of cut, I think you'll be in pretty good shape volume is also critical, silage, ground ear com and a concentrate premix. with either hayiage or corn silage.". especially when feeding only once per day. Self-locking head- gates, a variation of the divided feeding fence, can restrain animals and 5-6" Table 1- Suggested dimensions for Table 2 - Feed space requirements post-and-rall feeding fences age, months mature age, weight,. boat neck rail lYpe ~ S-8 9-12 13-15 16-24 cow months Ibs. height,. In. height,. In. In.lanlmal Self Feeder 6-8* 360-490 14 28 9-12 490-650 16 30 Hay 4 4 6 6 6 Mixed Ration 13-15 650-780 17 34 16-24 780-1,200 19 41 Grain 12 12 15 18 18 18 Once-a-Day Feeding Cows 1,200-1,500 21 48 •A diagonal bar feeding panel is recommended for the Hay/silagelTMR 12 18 22 26 26 26-30 group to prevent calves from escaping. Bars should be on a 7-inch spacing. NewGEHL TotalMix mixer feeders N ew "Total Mix"TMRmixer feeders let you mix Caught more long-stemmed hay into your ration - up to 30 percent by weight depending on hay type and moisture content Abreakthrough in four-auger design gives the new GEHL"Total Mix" mixer feeders unmatched You hay handling proficiency. The secret is the hay slicer auger that incorporates four unique knife assem- blies as an integral part of the two bottom augers. These assemblies break up long hay for a quicker mix, with less chance of wrapping, and are standard Lookin'! on the four largest mixer feeder models. GEHL'sfour auger system is known for excep- tional blending and mixing of all feed ingredients into the most homogenous ration possible in much Visit the Michigan less time. The new hay auger delivers the fast mix- ing action in a wide variety of feed materials. Soybean Program's The GEHLTotal Mixline ofTMR feeders in- cludes an improved planetary drive to power the Exhibit #305 at four mixing augers, along with a hydraulically driven unloading conveyor. Choose from five mixer feeder the MSU Ag Expo models with capacities ranging from 210 to 455 cubic feet The two larger models are also available as truck-mounted units .• June 25-27, 1996 Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee • Post Office Box 287 • Frankenmuth, Michigan 48734 Guide to adjusting your tractor for optimum performance our tractor will provide best performance mendations can only be made by using accurate Y and hop can be readily controlled when it is equipped with tires that are large enough relative to the tractor weight to provide weights and weight splits. It is also important that you consider the type of ballast used (cast weights and/or liquid) when setting up your tractor for opti- nre Size Table 2 - Load and Inflation table for conventional size rlldllll drive tires for speeds up to 25 mph. 24 a "soft" ride Oow stiffness). This means that they mum performance - see the next section and the Designation Inft psi 6 7 8 9 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 26 28 30 14.9R28 Single Lbs 1,760 1.920 2,080 2,230 2,370 2,630 2,880 3,120 3,300 3,560 3,760 3.960 4,140 4,320 4.540 should be inflated to the minimum pressures re- sample worksheet for further detail. 3,640 3.800 4,000 DuaILbs 1.5SO 1.690 1.830 1.960 2,090 2,310 2,530 2,7 SO 2.900 3,130 3,310 3,480 quired to support the static weight being carried Ballast tJpe liple Lbs 1,440 1.570 1,710 1.830 1.940 2,160 2.360 2,560 2,710 2.920 3,080 3,2SO 3,390 3,540 3,720 on each axle. (See section on Inflation Pressures for 4,280 4,460 4,680 Uquid ballast should be avoided since it has a 14.9R30 Single Lbs 1,810 1.980 2,140 2,300 2,440 2,720 2.970 3,220 3,420 3.660 3,880 4,080 DuaILbs 1,590 1,740 1,880 2,020 2.1SO 2,390 2,610 2,830 3,010 3,220 3,410 3,590 3,770 3.920 4,120 details.) The bigger the tire air volume the better- stiffening effect that degrades ride and generally 1,480 1,620 l,7SO 1,890 2,000 2,230 2,440 2,640 2,800 3,000 3,180 3,3 SO 3,510 3,660 3,840 liple Lbs best results willbe obtained if there is "more tire on reduces ability to control power hop. If liquid bal- 14.9R34 Single Lbs 1.920 2,100 2,280 2,440 2,590 2,880 3,160 3,420 3,640 3,880 4,120 4,300 4,540 4,740 4.940 DualLbs 3,630 3,780 4,000 4,170 4,350 the tractor" than might have been thought neces- last is used in the rear of 4WD tractors or MFWD 1,690 1,8SO 2,010 2,lSO 2,280 2,530 2,780 3,010 3,200 3,410 liple Lbs 1.570 1,720 1,870 2,000 2,120 2,360 2,590 2,800 2.980 3,180 3,380 3,530 3,720 3,890 4,050 sary in the past When setting up a tractor for heavy tractors, all tires on the axle must befilled to the 14.9R46 Single Lbs 2,260 2,470 2,670 2,860 3,040 3,380 3,700 4,000 4,300 4,560 4,840 5,080 tillage work, think in terms of bigger tires and mod- same level, which should not exceed 40%fill DualLbs 1.990 2,170 2,3 SO 2,520 2,680 2.970 3,260 3,520 3,780 4,010 4,260 4,470 iiple Lbs 1,8SO 2,030 2,190 2,3SO 2,490 2,770 3,030 3,280 3,530 3,740 3,970 4,170 erate to light weight instead of smaller tires and (4 o'clock valve stem position). Use 50% fillwhen 16.9R28 Single Lbs 2,130 2,330 2,520 2,700 2,870 3,200 3,500 3,780 4,080 4,320 4,560 4.940 heavy weight desired weight split cannot be met by other means. DualLbs 1,870 2,OSO 2,220 2,380 2,530 2,820 3,080 3,330 3,590 3,800 4,010 4,3SO Our goal is to guide you in adjusting your trac- Do not use liquid in 4WD fronts unless needed for TripleLbs 1.7SO 1.910 2,070 2,210 2,3SO 2,620 2,870 3,100 3,3 SO 3,540 3,740 4,OSO 16.9R30 Single Lbs 2,200 2,410 2,600 2,790 2.970 3,300 3,620 3.900 4,180 4,440 4,700 5,080 tor to attain optimum performance for each type of ballasting for heavy hitch-mounted ripper or scrap- DualLbs 1.940 2,120 2,290 2,460 2,610 2,900 3,190 3,430 3,680 3.910 4,140 4,470 field service. The major items to be considered are: er applications. Up to 75% fillmay be used in TripleLbs 1.800 1.980 2,130 2,290 2,440 2,710 2.970 3,200 3,430 3,640 3,8SO 4,170 18.4R38 Single Lbs 2.960 3,240 3,500 3,760 3.980 4,440 4,860 5,260 5,680 5.980 6,3SO 6,~00 • Appropriate tire size and number of tires MfWD fronts if needed for weight and/or to pr~ DualLbs 2,600 2,8SO 3,080 3,310 3,500 3.910 4,280 4,630 5.000 5,260 5,590 5,810 • Totaltractor weight and static weight split (percent vide stiffness to assist in power hop control. TripleLbs 2,430 2,660 2,870 3,080 3,260 3,640 3.990 4,310 4,660 4.900 5,210 5,410 of static weight on the front and on the rear axles) Tire latlatle ......... ns 18.4R42 Single Lbs 3,120 3,420 3,700 3.960 4,200 4,680 5,120 5,540 6,000 6,300 6,6SO 6.9SO DualLbs 2,7SO 3,010 3,260 3,480 3,700 4,120 4,510 4,880 5,280 5,540 5,8SO 6,120 • Type of ballast used (cast weight and liquid) When radial drive tires can be operated at TripleLbs 2,560 2,800 3,030 3,2 SO 3,440 3,840 4,200 4,540 4.920 5,170 5,4SO 5,700 • Tire inflation pressures lower pressures (generally below 14 psQ, the trac- 18.4R46 Single Lbs 3,280 3,600 3,880 4,160 4,420 4.920 5,400 5,820 6,1 SO 6,6SO 7,000 7,400 Many of the recommendations in this guide tive performance of the tractor is greater, hop is DualLbs 2,890 3,170 3,410 3,660 3,890 4,330 4.7SO 5,120 5,410 5,8SO 6,160 6,510 TripleLbs 2,690 2.9SO 3,180 3,410 3,620 4,030 4,430 4,770 5,040 5,450 5,740 6,070 do not appear to be consistent with past recom- eliminated, ride is more comfortable, and soil com- 20.8R38 3,580 3.920 4,240 4,540 4,840 5,380 5,880 6,3 SO 6,800 7,2 SO 7,650 8,OSO Single Lbs mendations and practices. However, they have been paction pressures are minimized. DualLbs 3,lSO 3,4SO 3,730 4,000 4,260 4,730 5,170 5,590 5.980 6,380 6,730 7,080 designed, developed and tested to fit today's farm- TripleLbs 2.940 3,210 3,480 3,720 3.970 4,410 4,820 5,210 5,S8O 5.9SO 6,270 6,600 A tire should be inflated to a pressure appro- 20.8R42 Single Lbs 3,780 4,140 4,480 4,800 5,100 5,680 6,200 6,700 7,1 SO 7,6SO 8,100 8,5SO ing practices, tractors and tires. Although the focus priate for the load on it. Correct inflation pressure DualLbs 3,330 3,640 3.940 4,220 4,490 5,000 5,460 5.900 6,290 6,730 7,130 7,520 here is on radial tires, the same approach applies to for the individual tire load is provided in Table 2. TripleLbs 3,100 3,390 3,670 3.940 4,180 4,660 5,080 5,490 5,860 6,270 6,640 7,010 24.5R32 Single Lbs 4,300 4,700 5,100 5,460 5,800 6,450 7,OSO 7,650 8,250 8,700 9,200 9,6SO bias tires, but the inflation pressures tables for bias Never operate with pressures lower than these. DualLbs 3,780 4,140 4,490 4,800 5,100 5,680 6,200 6,730 7,260 7,660 8,100 8,490 tires must be used and adhered to rigorously. Individual tire loads are determined by divid- 30.5LR32 Single Lbs 5,140 5,620 6,100 6,500 6.950 7,700 8,4SO 9,100 9,6SO 10,400 11.000 11,700 We define three major tractor operating condi- ing the axle load by the number of tires per axle. DualLbs 4,520 4.950 5,370 5,720 6,120 6.780 7,440 8,010 8,490 9,1SO 9,680 10,300 tion categories based on the implement being used: Axle loads can be determined from your tractor • Standard towed high draft implements dealer, from tractor manufacturer's handbooks, or On extremely steep hillside operations, keep the heavy hitch-mounted implements as recom- (disks, chisel plows, field cultivators, mulch by weighing the front and rear on a platform scale. fronts at the correct pressure for the load and raise mended by your tractor manufacturer. tillers, towed rippers, etc.) Rear pressures must be raised with heavy hitch- the rear pressures. • Uquid ballast to 75% fillcan be used in rear tires, • Hitch-mounted implements (rollover plows, mounted implements. On extremely steep hillsides Mea Iter.... ,. ... tracter's performance but ride will be best if cast wheel weights or par- PIO rototillers, mounted rippers, row crop (steeper than 20 percent grade) or where lateral After adjusting your tractor to achieve opti- tialliquid fillsare used instead. cultivators, etc.) stability is needed, increase rear pressures 4 psi mum tractive performance following the guidelines • The inflation pressures determined in Step 3 of • Towed implements that place high downward above the pressure found in the table. All tires on here, it is important that you monitor tractor behav- the worksheet will provide the optimum tractive loads on drawbars (scrapers, potato and beet an axle must have the same pressure. ior, especially under high draft load conditions such performance for your ~WD tractor. harvesters, grain carts, slurry tanks, etc.) Do not overinflate or underinflate. Use a pen- as tillage and scraper operations. Recommendations on tire size and number, cil type or dial gauge that is accurate in the lower When performing field operations that load Example WoI*sheet weight, weight split, ballast type and inflation pres- pressure ranges. Pencil type gauges for ATVtires the tractor close to a traction or power limit, you sures are provided for each of these categories. calibrated from 0-20 psi in half psi increments can should continuously monitor: Tractor: 140 PTO-hp MFWD Row Crop Tir. size aIId ......... ., tins be used for mQStrear tires. (They are not designed Implement: Towed FieldCultivator • Wheel slip (a radar monitor is recommended)- Tractor Tires:Front: 14.9R30, 3*Rating Select big, tall radial tires - tires that are large for liquid ballast) Check inflation pressures regular- Should be no more than 15 percent in normal till- Rear: 18.4R42 Duals, 2 *Rating enough to carry the static weight of the tractor with ly in the morning when tires are cool. age conditions - typically 5-12 percent. If wheel Manuf. recomm. wt. = 125 to 135#/PTO HP inflation pressures in the 6 to 14 psi range Oower For MfWD radial front tires, tw~wheel-drive slip is less than 5 percent with your highest draft pressure provides a better, "softer" ride). (Front row crop front tires, and all bias tires, use the ap- Step 1 implement and hardeSt pulling conditions, you are Base Unballasted Tractor MI'WDand 2WD tires will require more than 14 propriate inflation tables in the Goodyear Farm Tire overballasted if ground speeds are slow or un- 5,100# Front Weight = psi.) The bigger the tire, the lower the inflation Handbook available at all Goodyear dealers. derutilizing your tractor ifground speeds are high. Rear Weight = 11,700# pressure required to support a given axle load. This ........ hep wntrel If slip is greater than 15 percent, you should either Total Base Weight = 16,800# will provide the best tractive performance, the best Under some field conditions when pulling add weight or reduce your drawbar requirements PoundslPTO-hp = 16,800/140 = 120# ride, and improve control of power hop. Soil com- towed implements, MfWD and 4WD tractors can Front Axle Split= 5,100/16,800 = 30% - implement is too big for tractor. Rear Axle Split= 11,700/16,800 = 70% paction will also be reduced since the average soil experience a type of vibration or bounce called • Engine speed - The engine should operate in contact pressure under a tire is approximately equal power hop. If power hop occurs after following all the speed range specified by the manufacturer. Un- InitialWeight and Weight SplitAssessment: to the inflation pressure plus 1-2 psi. Thus the lower of the foregoing guidelines on tire size, weight split, der normal conditions at full throttle, the speed Tractor isslightlyunderweight for average the inflation pressure, the less compaction. This ballast type and inflation pressures, make the fol- should be near rated but may drop a few hundred conditions and has lower front weight split means selecting either larger size duals or possible than typical. lowing adjustments to inflation pressures: rpm during shon duration, high draft conditions. triples - probably more tire than you have been MFWD: Raisefront inflation pressure in 2 psi You may also "shift up and throttle back" if this Step 2 accustomed to using. Below are dual tire size exam- increments until it stops. Usually 6 to 8 psi above does not cause the engine to labor. Check jOur Add rack of suitcase weights to front ples for your tractor HP range. Check jOur tractor the correct inflation pressure for the load willsuf. tractor manufacturer's recommendation. Total weight = 1,500# manufacturer's recommendations . fice. Rear tire inflation pressures should remain at Adjusted Conditions (extraweight on front • Ground speed (a radar monitor is recommend- removes 300# on rear) the correct pressures for the load. The maximum ed) - 5 mph or higher is preferred, but no less Front Weight = 6,900# Tractor HP Range Dual nre Size Examples front pressure should not exceed 30 psi for a 2 than 4 mph continuously. Check jOur tractor Rear Weight = 11,400# under 150 18.4R42 STARor 36 psi for a 3 STARradialj for a bias tire, the Total Adjusted Weight = 18,300# 150-300 20.8R42 or 18.4R46 manufacturer's recommendation. maximum front pressure should not exceed 6 psi If the tractor can maintain engine and ground PoundslPTO-hp = 18,300/140 = 131 # greater than 300 710170R38 Front Axle Split= 6,900/18,300 = 38% above the maximum rated pressure. If the tractor speed within these limits but the slip is high, you Rea r Axle Split= 11,400/18,300 = 62 % still hops, use 75% liquid fillin front tires and re- should do one or more of the following: Tract8r welgllt aad ..... M spin move an equivalent amount (or more) of front cast General ranges are provided here - check • Reduce draft by reducing implement working Adjusted Weight and Weight SplitAssessment: weight equivalents. depth or width. Reasonable totalweight and good weight split with your tractor dealer for specific tractor manufac- 4WD: Raise either thefront or the rear infla- • Add ballast but maintain correct weight split. turer recommendations. The tractor dealer can Step 3 tion pressures by 6 to 8 psi above the correct infla- • Consider larger diameter tires. Determine Required Inflation usually estimate weights and weight splits for your tion pressure for the tire load. Whether raising the If the tractor is unable to maintain a minimum Pressures for Optimum Performance tractor from tables of data provided by the tractor manufacturer. Since the weight split of a 4WD trac- front works best or the rear works best depends on of 4 mph and the slip is within the acceptable Front StaticLoadfTire = 6,900/2 = 3,450# soil conditions, type of implement, operating speed range, you should reduce draft by reducing imple- From InflationPressure Table 2, tor is especially important in achieving optimum required minimum front tireinflation performance and controlling power hop, accurate and use of liquid ballast. If raising the front pressure ment working depth or width. pressure = 18 psi fails to control hop, reset the front tires to the cor- Tire inflation pressure should be checked Rear StaticLoadfTire = 11,400/4 = 2,850# front and rear axle weights are needed. If these rect pressure for the load and raise the rears. It is regularly before work when tires are cool. from InflationPressure Table 2, weights are not available from the tractor dealer, the very important that one of the two axles remain at Tire pressures change seasonally as outside required rear tireinflationpressure = 7 psi unit must be weighed. Use platform scales to weigh the correct pressure for its load. If liquid is used in temperature changes. front and rear axle. Accurate tire pressure recom- Ifpower hop occurs: the rear, raising rear pressures usually works best. o.ter....I............. ballast aDd 11IfIatIe • ..-sar. adjllStla.ats Raisefront inflation pressure in 2 psi incre- Table 1 - Total D'ador Weight Percent on Front Axle fer ,.ar trad8r ments until it stops. Usually 6 to 8 psi above the A sample worksheet to assist you in determin- correct inflation pressure for the load will suffice. 4WD 85-125 Ibs.per engine For towed implements, use 51-55%. This is ing the correct adjustments for your tractor accom- Rear tire inflation pressures should remain at cor- horsepower very important to help in control of power hop. panies this article. rect pressures for the load. The maximum front With no hitch,PrO or ballast,the front willbe pressure should not exceed 36 psi for a 3 STAR 60% or more out of the factory.For hitch- It is important to note than when tractors are mounted implements, use 55-60%. For towed optimized for one service category, switching oper- radial. If the tractor still hops, use 75% liquid fill in implements with very high downward loads on ations to another category may require ballast front tires and remove an equivalent amount (or drawbars, use 55-65 %. changes and will require inflation pressure changes. more) of front cast ballast. If the tractor still hops, MFWD 120-145 pounds per 35-40% for alltypes of implements. Power For tw~wheel-drive row crop tractors the remove any liquid ballast in rear tires and replace PTO horsepower: hop is easier to control as front splitisreduced. same guidelines as for MfWD tractors can be fol- with cast weight equivalents. 130 ismost common Return front pressures to 18 psi when operat- lowed with the following significant differences: 2WDRow Crop Same as MFWD 25-35%. Use higher percentage with heavy ing at reduced draft loads when power hop is un- hitch-mounted implements .. • Only 25-35 percent of the static weight should be on the front - use higher percentages with likely.• Getting Better Results! .... ................................... , .. ROOF, REROOF, PATCH It's easy to do it yourself with proven 751 Bobcat Special :'-i.-'~-~'-If»-r- June 1thru /.ff): .. ,i t ~V~..~ ': ~1 WANTED, STANDING TIM- BER: Buyers of timber of all July 31 1996 ~ ( ;;.!r , 'f' .~,jf. ? . .'i. J ., types. 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Box 340 • Coshocton, OH 43812 • 800-882-ROOF 3000 Series I~ I • Airline Tickets Reel Auggie Mixer ~ • Tour Packages 800.937.2676 • Cruises Less pressure, fricUal aad wear ... faster mlxlq aad better 236 Sugar St. feed quality ... aH features of the Ialgbt Reel Augite. Blissfield, MI 49228 • Hotel Reservations • Car Rentals • Amtrak the smith brothers 3000 Series Reel Auggies feature the following advantages: Monday-Friday, Lake Odessa, MI 48849 • Blends by gently lifting, fluffing and tum- bling theentireload, reducing mix time, power 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. requirement. machine wear, and dead spots Call 800-292-2693 GRAIN BUYERS • Aggressive upper and lower auger with hardened, replaceable knives for thorough "We pay top $ fast!" end-to-end movement • Shear angle for both upper & lower auger FARM WINDMILL: To be used as part of the education- ~..~ • Simple slide tray or three auger al school tours at Caleb's Cider Mill and Petting Zoo . Vermontville, 1-517-321-0276 1-800-878-CROP . • • $ discharge available Oil bath drive with external grease banks Constant Velocity PTO with integral slip clutch or 1-517-726-1102. • Hay-Max Kit option for better break-up of most hay and bulk materials • Tow, truck mounted, and stationary units from 147 to 600 cubic feet See the 3000 Series Mixers and the 8000 Series Spreaders on display at Ag Expo '96, June 25-27 - See us at Booth 201-302 WANTED: 2"-8" used alumi- Making precision farming technology num irrigation tubing. Buy, Sell or Trade! Call work for you Rain Control 1-800-339-9350 WANTED: Michigan success- Call us for sale prices on G PS receivers, ful deer patches, buttons and tags. Call 1-616-691-7719. Yield monitors, and Map production WANTED: Old motorcycles, snowmobile and off road ve- hicles. 1965 and older. Call PROBLEMS WITH YOUR LAND HUDSON CONSTRUCTION Agri-Data Management JD at 1-517-676-0583. CONTRACT? Late payments? SERVICES AIl types of agricultural, com- a qivision of TSM Services, Inc. Back taxes? Property dam- WANTED: WW II GERMAN age? 9 of 10 qualify for pur- mercial, residential construc- 106 E. Commercial St. .:. P. O. Box 860 .:. Catlin, IL 61817 and US war souvenirs, med- chase. We can help. tion. Steel, bricks or sticks. U- als, uniforms, knives, helmets 1st NATIONAL censed and insured with cer- Phone: (800) 626 - 3806 or (217) 427 - 5984 and etc. Bernal Tolan Call 1-517-287-5183. 1-800-879-2324. tified engineers. Call 1-616-785-9704. SAVE 20% NOW! Twisted Slash Point Solid Steel Mold Board Yetter facts on- demand hotline provides up-to-date b.nning infonnation. Use this number to Field Cultivator Sweep get detailed infonna. Fertilizer Coullers 2968 & 2960/2967 tion on products RoUlTJ'Hoe HJ'draul1c Markers If there was only one At Yetter, we were Don't let thick soil We're making our Summer Sale! way to place fenilizer, the first to combine and tillage tips crusts rob you of your mark. Available with Share through your fax July 1 - Aug. 10 we'd make on~' one a row cleaner and machine and field. Fight back with notched or smooth Save on all type of fenilizer coulter. coulter in one. computer modem. the cold steel of Yetter marker discs. Standard Rotary Hoe. replacement parts, including welders and power washers I See us at Shin Ag Expo. OEM-Certified booth 218 Replacement Card Bros Equipment Inc. 12296 W Brady Chesaning, MI 517-845-7370 Dan's Fann Supply Inc. 4248 S Adrian Hwy. Adrian.MI 517-263-1395 Overnight Delivery Available Finnennans Fann & Garden 21189 M 86 Centreville. MI 616-467-6396 Leathem Equipment Co. 245 Columbia Rd. Caro, MI 517-673-3939 Lich Fann Service Inc. 6018 E Grand River Portland. MI 517-647-4751 Osentoski Fann Equipment Inc. 2365 Van Dyke Marlette. MI 517-635-7461 West MI Power & Equipment Inc. 3651 M-20 New Era. MI 616-861-2175 _. GROIJP PIJRCHAS'NG 1-800-447-5777 Yetter Manufacturing Co. • Colchester, IL 62326 • 309-776-4111 • Fax 30.9-776-3222 lrJl~:I@JJ!!]~ I~'I~~~~~~ June 15, 1996 New Holland tractors designed with the driver in mind by Mary J. Gawenda turbo-chatged diesel engine with high torque rise L arin Cook says New Holland tractors are the best on the market, and based on recent sales, many farmers appear to agree. "Hope- fullywe'll have two models (at Ag Expo), but and horsepower for the Genesis 8670, 8770, 8870 and 8970 series, giving operators more power and convenience in the fields. Genesis 8670 model is rated at 145 hp, the 8770 has 160 hp, the 8870 has they've been selling very well, so they're in shon 180 hp, and the 8970 at 210 hp. supply," Cook said of the New Holland tractors. Genesis models have a torque rise of up to 50 Although the company changed their main logo percent instead of the typical28 to 35 percent on other from Ford to New Holland, the change hasn't led en- models, making down shifting less frequent and re- gineers to sacrifice quality in designing the line of ducing stress on the engine, says Cook. "The torque Genesis tractors, Cook said. The Ford name is still on rise on these tractors is second to none." the tractors, but they are known as New Holland now. Torque and horsepower combine with Engineers developed a well-balanced 7.5 liter, New Holland's patented steering system to make Genesis tractors one of the most economic choices for farmers looking to add power and dependability to their operation, Cook said. SuperS tear FWD allows the tractor to turn on a dime ... 15-feet exactly, with any size tire. An adjusting axle moves the inside front tire away from the frame and the outside tire moves in front of the tractor, allowing for a tighter turning angle, Cook explained "Our SuperStear front axles allow the Genesis to be the sharpest turning model on the market," Cook said. Genesis' hood lifts like a car's to expose the engine, allowing for no-hassle maintenance. With tighter turning, drivers will save in three areas: travel distance, time and money - three The no-clutch transmission allows the driver make the tractor shift slower. Other transition areas every farmer is interested in, Cook said. to shuttle-shift through 16 forward and nine reverse featur~ make driving less hassle and more efficient Farmers looking for an added lx>o;t will ap- gears. Pushing the lever forward moves the tractor Easy access to engine components is no preciate New Holland's MegaAow hydraulic system forward and pulling it back reverses the tractor. longer a luxury, but a necessity for the Genesis SuperStear FWDallows the tractor to turn on which pumps a whopping 55 gallons per minute To up shift rapidly, the driver can hold the models. The hood lifts like a car's to expose the a dime ... 15-feet exactly, with any size tire. and provides 2,750 psi. lever to the right or tap the stick to the right to whole engine, allowing for no-hassle maintenance. And with an easy-access door panel, oil checks ahd filter changes are easier, too. The cab was also designed with the operator in mind. A swivel chair and patented Sidewinder Come to the Michigan Au Expo to discover the console provide comfon and convenience. With the touch of a button, the console adjusts to the driv. er's needs and the swivel chair allows the driver to "Distinct Advantage" of Morton Buildings I check equipment behind the tractor without strain- ing the neck or upper body. Look for the Genesis tractors at the Ag Expo Field Demos .• Bunk basics Costt, cera Increases Importance .1a.aslsteaq G ood feedbunk management is always impor- tant, but when com prices are sky high, it's a good idea for feeders to revisit bunk basics. "Good bunk management can be worth $10 to $20 per head more than average management," says beef cattle nutritionist, Dr. Rabbi Pritchard. He offers these basic points to consider: Conslst.nq Is critical Pritchard points out that cattle are "self-pro- pelled fermentation vats," and the biggest enemy of fermentation is variation. Since cattle are notable to monitortheirown feed intake (the brain may indicate to keep eating when the rumen microbes are maxed out) feeders must do it for them, he advises. Consis- tent intake in cattle is based on them having a consis- tent diet in consistent amounts at consistent times. CIIec:k IDadllaelY aDd I_pills The accuracy of scales and feed trucks, as well as the quality of feed ingredients, can make or break good bunk management "Details like watch- ing ingredients to be sure there aren't a lot of fines being left in the bunk can help avoid wasting high- cost components of the diet," Pritchard suggests. "Our first Morton Building was 42'x90' back in 1984. We added on 60 feet __ ping recenls ..... ".g ...... Having records of what cattle are eating day- two years later, and to this day you cannot tell where the addition is. The best insulated to-day doesn't do much good unless the informa- building we've found. Excellent quality." Russell "Butch" Broad, Traverse City, Ml. tion is used and analyzed Pritchard says it's impor- tant to use bunk scores in combination with records After more than 300,000 satisfied customers and of the amount being fed in order to have a firm over 90 years of business experience, we've learned handle on where cattle have been in terms on con- sumption and where they need to go. what our customers need. We use that extensive "The bunk score tells us if intakes are knowledge and expertise to continually refine and going up, coming down, or holding steady. It improve our designs. can help avoid erratic feed delivery problems Whether you are interested in a machine storage (see Table 1)," Pritchard explained. "Good bunk management costs nothing more than a few facility or a commercial structure, Morton Buildings minutes each day.". can provide you with a building that is unmatched in quality and warranties. All of our warranties are non- Table 1 - 4-Po/nt Bunk Scoring System ... Butch Broad also owns 11 Morton Buildings Score Desalpdon prorated and include materials and labor. commercial structures for his "Team Elmer's" business. o No feed left in bunk. Be sure to stop by our display at the Michigan 800-447-7436 Y2 Scattered feed present, most of bottom of bunk is exposed. Ag Expo and discover the "Distinct Advantage" of owning a Morton Building. f'tMORTON 1 Thin, uniform layer of feed across bottom of bunk - typically u~BUILDINGS P. O. Box 399, Morton, IL 61550 2 1 kernel deep. 25 to 50 percent of previous feed @ 1996 Monon Buildings. Inc. remaining. 3 Crown of feed is thoroughly disturbed. Over 50 percent of feed remains. 4 Feed is virtually untouched. Crown of feed still noticeable.