Tractor, harvester IT comes of age
Over the last halfdecade, digital technology has appeared to be the “must-have” for tractor and machinery companies, who believe that bringing IT to tractors and farming will offer its customers huge benefits.
German manufacturer Krone has developed two new versions of its 4m EasyCut F400 mower.
One, the EC F400 Fold, has no conditioner but a swathing auger, while the second has a rigid cutter-bar and an integrated roller conditioner.
Based on the original EC F400 CV Fold – awarded a silver medal at Agritechnica 2019 – the EC F400 Fold is fitted with the same patented folding system, reducing the transport width of the cutter-bar to 3.0m.
Featuring many years of experience gained with Big M swathing augers and the EasyCut B 950 Collect butterfly combination, the 45cm diameter auger swathes the crop (width is adjustable) between the tractor wheels.
Increased productivity from the 4.0m working width is said to be ideal for farms cutting fresh grass for cows or goats each day, but also extends the working width for those contractors using butterfly combinations. As an example, combined with the Krone EC B1000, more than 10m of grass can be knocked down with 57cm overlaps on each side.
Aimed at farmers growing alfalfa or other crops prone to leaf shatter, the EC F400 CR (roller conditioner) is equipped with a rigid cutter-bar and a standard conditioning unit consisting of two profiled 25cm-diameter polyurethane rollers.
Farmer-led charity, Meat the Need is calling for donations to enable it to supply more meals to families in need.
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
OPINION: Canterbury milk processor Synlait is showing no sign of bouncing back from its financial doldrums.
OPINION: It seems every bugger in this country can get an award these days.