25 Years of John Deere Automated Guidance: A Precision Ag Timeline
This year marks the 25th anniversary of John Deere moving into automated guidance.
Two new machines from John Deere increase their offering in the grass harvesting sector.
The new C451R and C461R variable chamber, baler wrapper combinations are said to meet the needs of farmers and contractors.
Mirroring the C441R fixed chamber model, both machines have a full frame chassis for reliability and strength. Additionally, a high capacity feeding system combines with the maker’s Fast Release System for increased outputs.
The manufacturer says the main point of the baler’s design is its performance and ability to work in heavy, wet grass crops, and to deal with dry, often brittle, straw.
Making bales up to 1.85m diameter, the baler has a pick-up with a five-tine bar, cam track design, carrying 6mm tines and stainless steel stripper bands for durability.
There is a choice of feeding systems using a high capacity MaxiCut HC rotor with 13 or 25 knives, with a new reinforced wear resistant Hardox steel rotor also adding to the machine’s overall performance and strength.
The C451R and C461R use a well proven in-line rotor concept, which positively transfers all types of crop through to the bale chamber. This minimises any possibility of crop build-up and uneven feeding. Both versions also have a full width, parallel drop floor system operated from the tractor cab, which enables blockages to be removed easily.
As on the C441R wrapping baler, the C451R and C461R now have a 15% faster wrapper element working at 40 rpm. With a table transfer system 18% faster than on the previous C440R model, the new machine is said to achieve much higher overall productivity.
These new machines also have a tandem axle layout for improved stability and reduced ground compaction.
Supply chain problems, growing protectionism and a move to greater food security are some of the key challenges facing New Zealand exporters, according to our top trade negotiator, Vangelis Vitalis.
A spat within the ranks of the New Zealand Deer Farmers Association has resulted in the suspension of outspoken North Canterbury farmer Barry Cuttance.
After delivering a strong financial year, rural trader PGG Wrightson says the coming months will depend on customer confidence and weather.
Beef+Lamb New Zealand and the Ag Emissions Centre have launched a new research project aimed at helping beef farmers reduce methane emissions without impacting productivity or profitability.
The apple sector is working with the Government to unlock access to two key markets that could bring millions in revenue for apple growers.
Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.

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