Large model commodity carts now available
John Deere expands its lineup of 1910 Commodity Carts with the addition of two larger models — a two-tank 350-bushel, and a three-tank 430-bushel, tow-between configuration. According to the company these new models provide the increased capacity for customers to seed and fertilize a large number of acres in less time. In addition, the 80-bushel tank on the 430-bushel tow-between commodity cart can also be ordered liquid-fertilizer capable.

“For grain producers concerned about compaction and productivity, these new tow-between carts address both issues. Our customers can seed and fertilize more acres in less time and make fewer stops to refill. This increases their productivity and seeding efficiency,” says Aubrey Grove, project manager, John Deere Seeding Group. “The new carts are ideal for large-scale, small-grain producers who own air seeders, and for growers or ag-service providers who apply fertilizer with strip-till equipment.”

HJV Equipment releases a new Ultra High Clearance option
A new Ultra High Clearance option has just been released by HJV Equipment for their AGCHEM Equipment’s RoGator Model Sprayers. With a trend toward late season spray applications on corn, sprayer clearance has become increasingly important. However, a high clearance machine must still be road legal to drive from field to field, and in some cases may need to be loaded on a sprayer trailer to do so.

According to the company, HJV’s Ultra High Clearance Hydraulic Lift Kit address challenges both in the field and on the road. The new technology consists of a Hydraulic raise and lower feature that will allow RoGator operators to increase crop clearance by 20 inches with the push of a button.   The technology also allows operators to trailer or ‘road run’ the machine legally from farm to farm, as well as providing the ability to switch back and forth from ultra high clearance to lower clearance jobs in 90 seconds claims HJV.

The kit is available this fall and demonstrations are being held at an offsite venue during the Outdoor Farm Show in Woodstock, Ontario.

SmartStax gets regulatory approval
With regulatory approval granted in both the US and Canada, corn producers will soon have access to Monsanto and Dow Agrosciences’ new biotechnology.

The two companies hailed this launch as the next generation of genetically modified corn seed. They claim that their new SmartStax technology provides producers with the broadest spectrum of insect and weed protection compared to products currently in the market.

SmartStax is the outcome of a cross licensing agreement and research and development collaboration between Monsanto and Dow Agrosciences. The product combines both companies corn traits and aims to reduce structured refuge. In Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency will allow reduction of the typical refuge from 20 percent to five percent for SmartStax.

The product is scheduled to launch in 2010.