Agrisure Duracade E-Z Refuge Trait Stacks

Posted on by
Reply

Agrisure_Traits_logoSyngenta announced that the EPA has approved the Agrisure Duracade™ 5122, E-Z Refuge® and Agrisure Duracade 5222, E-Z Refuge trait stacks. These single-bag refuge products will provide growers with unmatched corn rootworm protection plus a convenient 5 percent integrated refuge.

The Agrisure Duracade 5122, E-Z Refuge product combines the Agrisure Duracade trait with the trusted Agrisure® RW trait for dual modes of action against corn rootworm. This single-bag refuge product also contains the Agrisure CB/LL trait for corn borer control, the Herculex® I trait for an additional mode of action against corn borer plus broad lepidopteran control, and the Agrisure GT trait for glyphosate tolerance. It is conveniently packaged in a 5 percent integrated refuge.

Agrisure Duracade 5222, E-Z Refuge contains all of the same traits found in the Agrisure Duracade 5122, E-Z Refuge product plus the Agrisure Viptera® trait for breakthrough control of the multi-pest complex, a collection of highly destructive lepidopteran corn pests. It is also conveniently packaged in a 5 percent integrated refuge.

The Agrisure Duracade trait expresses a unique engineered protein (eCry3.1Ab) that protects against Western corn rootworm, Northern corn rootworm and Mexican corn rootworm. Syngenta and university research trials have shown the Agrisure Duracade trait is highly effective in controlling corn rootworm. Research by the US Department of Agriculture reports that the trait has the highest reduction in beetle emergence (99.79 percent) of any commercial CRW trait.*

*Field measures of Western corn rootworm mortality caused by transgenic corn expressing the mCry3A (MIR604) and eCry3.1Ab (5307) proteins. (Hibbard et al. ESA Meeting December 2010)

Large-Scale GM Corn Fields in Mexico

Posted on by
Reply

The planting of genetically modified (GM) corn fields on a large commercial scale has been approved by the Mexican Secretariat of Agriculture (SAGARPA). The permit allows the planting of 250,000 hectares of three varieties of GM corn (MON-89034-3, MON-00603-6 and MON-88017-3) in the states of Chihuahua, Coahuila and Durango. This is the first time GM corn will have been planted on a large commercial scale in Mexico.

One scientific initiative is the National Seed Vault (Bóveda Nacional de Semillas, BNS), whose charter is to safeguard the 246 native Mexican corn strains from ever being fully lost. The BNS will also include a Maize Varieties Tasting Center (Centro de Degustación de Variedades de Maíz, CDVM), where people can sample many varieties of native corn, as well as 30 varieties of GM corn. The BNS will also make native varieties available to environmental education and preservation groups in Mexico and elsewhere, as well as to eco-gastronomy chefs worldwide.

“The BNS is a great solution to concerns about the contamination of native strains,” said a statement by the Mexican Association of Concerned Scientists, a group formed in 2011 in order to address concerns about the distribution of biotechnology in Mexico. “It guarantees that our rich agricultural patrimony will survive for all time.”

Additionally, Monsanto is funding the Codex Mexico (Codice México), a digital archive preserving the vast wealth of Mexican culture for centuries to come.

August 13 marks the traditional Mexican birthday of corn.

DPP Graindesk Mobile App

Posted on by
Reply

dpp_bannerWith more growers relying on mobile technology for their daily farming operations, Farms Technology, L.L.C., a wholly owned subsidiary of DuPont Pioneer, has upgraded its Dynamic Pricing PlatformSM (DPPSM) Graindesk mobile app to reflect sellers’ changing needs for updated grain-market information.

The free DPP mobile app puts your preferred buyers’ bids at your fingertips, enabling you to make, monitor and manage offers to sell corn, soybeans and wheat 24 hours a day.

The DPP Graindesk mobile app also delivers updated market information with the ability to create and manage futures-only and cash offers. Through mobile messaging, buyers can communicate with sellers directly through the mobile platform.

DPP Graindesk offers are monitored with every tick of the futures market from 8:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 7:45 a.m. Utilizing the CME Group electronic markets, the DPP Graindesk facilitates an automatic connection between grower-approved offers and buyers’ hedge orders. With patented e-Pit®services, DPP Graindesk can place a hedge order, receive confirmation of the fill, execute the cash purchase, and notify both buyer and seller in seconds. Before the DPP Graindesk and the upgraded DPP Graindesk mobile app, growers interested in selling grain contacted merchandisers to get a price or waited for a price notification via a scheduled text message.

The DPP Graindesk mobile app is compatible with both Android and iPhone devices. Download the free mobile app at the App Store or Google Play store.

FMC Announces Anthem Finalists

Posted on by
Reply

ams13-fmcYou could call it “Rural America’s Got Talent.” After six months, 185 entries and a round of online voting and judging, FMC Corporation has announced the final four contestants in the Anthem “Stand and be Heard” Singing Contest.

“This is the second year we’ve had the Stand and be Heard contest,” said FMC’s Tim Thompson, pictured here second from the right with his colleagues at the Ag Media Summit last week. “It’s for students in FFA, NAMA and 4H – ag students – who sing the national anthem on video and submit it and (are judged) for the opportunity to win up to $10,000 in scholarships.”

FMC Anthem Stand and Be HeardTim says over 30 states were represented in the entries and they have now been judged down to the final four – Alexander Raun, 18, from Minden, Nebraska; Alexandra Carpenter, 19, from Crawfordsville, Indiana; Hayley Hall, 17, from Bladenboro, North Carolina; and Noelle Goodson, 18, Fayette, Ohio.

Next the four will be on their way to Nashville for a professional recording session and new videos will be posted to the site on August 26 so you can cast your vote for the winner. You really have to go and listen to these kids sing acapella to hear their pure sound. Everyone knows what a difficult song our beautiful national anthem is to sing, so you know these kids have real talent!

The contest was started last year to promote FMC’s Anthem herbicide for corn and Tim says they expect to have new registrations coming soon for cereals, potatoes, peanuts, cotton and soybeans. “A great grass products, longest residual product on the market today, along with great broadleaf control for things like palmer amaranth,” he added.

Listen to my interview with Tim here: Interview with Tim Thompson, FMC

Studies Show Conservations Measure Working

Posted on by
Reply

vcsPRAsset_525494_58592_fdb60e8c-c17f-4430-bd6c-c041bd181192_0_ifbf_newsreleaseAn analysis of recent water data show long-term declining levels of nitrates in the Raccoon River, despite the weather-induced spike seen this spring.

Additionally, according to Des Moines Water Works website posted measurements, 80 percent of the daily nitrate values since 2006 are less than the drinking water standard of 10 parts per million (ppm).

“The fact that there’s been a steady decline in nitrates in the Raccoon River should not be interpreted that farmers are somehow shirking their responsibility for their share of the nitrate load. In fact, ag groups are stepping up to the plate, embracing the new Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy and encouraging all farmers to do the same. Farmers are considering additional steps they can take to help make further reductions,” says IFBF president Craig Hill.

This trend analysis follows a recent study, featured in the Journal of Environmental Quality, 2012, which confirmed that for 1992-2008, rainfall and temperature contribute more to nitrate variations in the Raccoon River, than modern farming practices.

In the last 30 years, voluntary conservation measures have reduced soil erosion in the U.S. by 43 percent, according to the USDA’s National Resources Inventory report. Iowa’s erosion rate was down 33 percent, due in part to a combination of practices being put in place, such as buffer strips, terraces, no-till, cover crops, restoring wetlands, installing bio-filters and grassy waterways in fields.

Farmers Edge: 2013 ASTech Awards Honoree

Posted on by
Reply

logoFarmers Edge, provider of precision agronomic management services, has been selected as one of the 23 Honorees of the 2013 Alberta Science and Technology Leadership Awards. The theme of this year’s ASTech Awards Gala is “Shaping the Future” and will showcase the significant impact each of the honorees have in the development of innovation in Alberta. The honorees will be recognized for their contributions at the 2013 ASTech Awards Gala on October 25, 2013.

For 24 years, the ASTech Foundation has invited members of industry, educational institutions and government agencies to be nominated for the ASTech Awards and only the top candidates are selected as honorees in each category.

Recognized for the development of Advanced Geospatial Yield Analysis. This technology enables the ability to process vast amounts of harvest data to measure yield results with geospatial accuracy. This powerful new tool from Farmers Edge allows better measurement of the yield and return of investment of crop input decisions on an unprecedented number fields allowing growers to make better farm management decisions.

Summer Insights Magazine Now Available

Posted on by
Reply

Insights WeeklyInsights magazine is a magazine entirely devoted to precision farming. Designed to give you more in-depth information about what’s happening today in precision agriculture, this publication will show you how you can capitalize on the technologies now available to make your operation more successful and profitable.

The Summer 2013 issue is now available!

In addition to precision ag information, we will also introduce you to folks who can tell you firsthand just how beneficial precision farming practices have been to their operation. In addition, we’ll share valuable agronomic information from experts across the country so you can use to make informed decisions in the field. And we will take you inside Ag Leader so you can meet the people responsible for developing Ag Leader’s line of innovative precision farming products. As always, you’ll be the first to know about new products, local training opportunities and much more!

Sign up for a free subscription or download the Insights magazine here. Currently Insights magazine is only available for subscription in the United States and Canada.

Become a fan of Ag Leader on Facebook today, and get the latest precision ag videos on the YouTube channel. For more information about Ag Leader products and services, or to visit the blog site, go to www.agleader.com.

Ag Industries Growing Demand for Workers

Posted on by
Reply

zp-nhOur latest ZimmPoll asked the question, “Do you think cellulosic ethanol can be commercialized?”

Our poll results:

· Almost There 33%
· It Already Is 26%
· Could Be Someday 25%
· Just A Fantasy 11%
· No Clue 3%
· Other 2%

According to our latest ZimmPoll results, most people believe that cellulosic ethanol, which can be made from agricultural waste or non-food crops, is already or soon to be commercialized.

Our new ZimmPoll is now live and asks the question, “What is the biggest growth area for ag jobs?” The agriculture industry continues to grow creating thousands of new jobs. Which ag area do you feel supplies the most jobs? Let us know.

ZimmPoll is sponsored by New Holland Agriculture.

New Holland’s New Speedrower Line

Posted on by
Reply

new-holland-ag-13-125-editedNew Holland Agriculture’s Speedrower Self-Propelled Windrowers was another stop during their First in the Field Media Event. The Speedrower allows for producers to travel faster and increase efficiency. Yet still provides the industry-leading power, control, comfort and performance New Holland customers expect.

  • Integrated IntelliSteer auto-guidance eliminates pass-to-pass overlap.
  • Improved steering control gives for smooth, responsive handling.
  • Hydrostatic transmission allows for 24-mph, high-speed, foward-looking transport.
  • Prairie Special and draper-ready upgrades.
  • Upgraded rear support and tire options.

new-holland-ag-13-124-editedSeth Doman, Brand Marketing Manager for Hay & Forage Preparation Products, explained each new addition and shared dealer feedback after they participated in the First in the Field event.

“We have three new models in the Speedrower line replacing the H8000 series that will be new for 2014. Dealers can order this producer across North American today and are ordering. We have a pre-sale program that is going on through the end of the month.”

Listen to my interview with Seth from here: Interview with Seth Doman

View photos from the event here: 2013 New Holland Ag Media Event Photo Album

BigBalers for Big Jobs

Posted on by
Reply

new-holland-ag-13-093-editedNow here is a new toy for all those commercial hay operations, straw contractors and owner-operators shipping world-wide. New Holland Agriculture’s Next Generation BigBaler 330 produces 3′x3′ bales and the BigBaler 340 produces 3′x4′ bales.

  • Provides up to 20% more capacity with up to 5% more density with patented “C” Shaped Shuttle design.
  • Increased baling speeds of 110 bales per hour.
  • PTO driveline design brings improved durability with efficient and faster feeding.
  • Proven pre-change chamber along with 48% increased flywheel inertia ensuring consistent and dense flake formation with less driveline.
  • SMART features including Smart Fill Indicators, Crop Saver and Crop ID.

new-holland-ag-13-081-editedMark Lowery, Hay & Forage Marketing Specialist, focuses on crop packaging and baling equipment and served as our BigBaler expert for the day. While interviewing Mark, he gave light into the new technologies used to bring New Holland’s 2014 lineup front and center when it comes to hay and forage production in North America.

Listen to my interview with Mark from here: Interview with Mark Lowery

View photos from the event here: 2013 New Holland Ag Media Event Photo Album

True Blue Tractor Luxury

Posted on by
Reply

new-holland-ag-13-103-editedThe two tractors highlighted during New Holland Agriculture’s First in the Field Media Event included the T5 and T6 series tractors. The new T5 has redefined utility tractor standards for mixed farmers with diversified livestock and crop operations. And the T6 has been further enriched by the addition of Auto Command.

T5 Series:
- 3.4L F5D Tier 4A emission complaint engines that utilize a Cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation system & a Diesel Particulate Filter.
- Heavy-duty components that enable long hours of working on the farm.
- A broad loader offering further enhanced versatility.
- VisionView cab provides ultimate comfort and visibility.
- Ergonomic CommandArc console provides the operator with perfect placement of controls.

T6 Series:
- Auto Command transmission for enhanced efficiency.
- Multi-award-winning Side Winder II armrest.
- Upgraded Horizon Cab for outstanding all-day comfort.
- Powerful hydraulics boasting 33 gal. per min. of flow capacity.
- Blue Power edition for a touch of farming luxury.
- ECOBlue SCR technology which will reduce fuel consumption by up to 10%.

Mike Sevick, Marketing Specialist in Dairy & Livestock Brand Marketing, specifically works with T4, T5, T5 Electro Command, T6, T6 Auto Command and TS6 series tractors. While explaining all the new features of these tractors, Mike was excited to share the dealers enthusiasm while they got behind the wheel of these blue beauties. He even stated that many are looking for them to replace the T6020 and T6030 tractors.

Listen to my interview with Mike from here: Interview with Mike Sevick

View photos from the event here: 2013 New Holland Ag Media Event Photo Album

Trimble Introduces New Agriculture App

Posted on by
Reply

smart-appTrimble announced the Connected Farm Fleet app built to serve managers and technicians by enabling them to access their fleet information from any location. Using smartphones and tablets, the app enables the fleet management portion of Trimble’s industry-leading Connected Farm Web solution to go mobile. With the app, managers can track the location of vehicles, receive geo-fence and curfew alerts, analyze vehicle status, and view historical positions.

The app can display current status information such as whether the vehicle is idling, moving, working or delayed. This information flows into the Connected Farm Web solution, which allows managers to analyze the efficiency and productivity of their fleet.

Features of the Connected Farm Fleet app include:
· Map the locations of landmarks (such as structures, storage locations, irrigation/drainage, etc.) and view them for reference when navigating in remote areas
· Use turn-by-turn navigation to locate vehicles from your current position
· Receive geo-fence and curfew alerts
· View historical positions

The free Connected Farm Fleet app is expected to be available in the third quarter of 2013 and is compatible with a variety of smartphones and tablets using an iOS or Android operating system. To download the app, go to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store or visit: www.connectedfarm.com.

Center-Pivot Discbine Mower-Conditioners

Posted on by
Reply

new-holland-ag-13-064-editedOne of the six checkpoints we traveled through during New Holland Agriculture’s First in the Field Media Event was on their new discbines. New Holland has taken discbines to a whole new level with even more durability and functionality with their two new center-pivot models. Discbine 313 and 316 are designed for cleaner cutting, more efficient crop flow and smoother, more effective conditioning.

  • The MowMax II cutter bar offers improved durability and the ShockPRO fail safe system.
  • The WideDry conditioning system is 22.5% wider than New Holland’s previous models.
  • These models offer simplified drivelines with single drive shaft and advanced shielding with high density, bi-fold upper shielding, reducing the weight by 75%.
  • A two-speed conditioning system is adjustable for the perfect hay quality.
  • The LeaningEdge flail conditioning allows for even faster drying.
  • Those working in energy crops like cane and corn stover might be interested in the new BioMass Kit.

new-holland-ag-13-059-editedDuring the media event I spoke with Brand Marketing Manager for Hay & Forage Crop Preparation Products, Seth Doman. Not only did he share more insight into these proven technologies, but also when farmers can find them at their local New Holland dealership.

Listen to my interview with Seth from here: Interview with Seth Doman

View photos from the event here: 2013 New Holland Ag Media Event Photo Album

Ag Leader Continues to Invest in Developing Dealers

Posted on by
Reply

Insights Weekly

Over the course of the past couple of years, Ag Leader has watched how the computer industry and the way they host peer groups in an effort to educate dealers and facilitate idea-sharing sessions, trying to see if it was a good fit for the precision agriculture industry. The genesis for peer group sharing has been around for decades, and being in a developing industry (precision ag is only a mere 20 years old), Ag Leader felt it mutually beneficial to develop the Precision Ag Peer Group program for dealers to help them grow their businesses. The purpose of the groups is business and personal growth driven by execution.

Michael Vos, Ag Leader territory development manager, says peer groups help dealers network, discover new and innovative ideas (that’s what precision ag is all about, right?), learn about business practices across the country and improve on their leadership and management skills.

Listen to my full interview with Vos here.

Listen to Vos explain

Vos says people understand the big idea behind peer groups but until you experience them for a day, you don’t really know their true value…the results are encouraging. Contact your Ag Leader territory manager today if you are interested.

Become a fan of Ag Leader on Facebook today, and get the latest precision ag videos on the YouTube channel. For more information about Ag Leader products and services, or to visit the blog site, go to www.agleader.com.

Nation’s Largest Outdoor Farm Show Expands

Posted on by
Reply

FPS13-flagThe nation’s largest outdoor farm event, Farm Progress Show, has once again exceeded the initial projections for exhibit space. But don’t worry they are introducing an expanded show site for the event to be held in Decatur, IL. August 27-29. A new street has been added as well as an annex.

“When the Farm Progress Show sites were built in Decatur and Boone, they were built to accommodate the largest show usage in recent times,” says Matt Jungmann, national events manager. “Before the 2011 show, we added Eleventh Street to meet the demand for space. This year, it became clear that extra space was needed to accommodate all the requests by exhibitors, and the investment would need to be made to accommodate those requests.”

Throughout the last eight years Farm Progress Show has been in Decatur, grounds have grown from 10 streets 12. This expansion equates to 3.647 million square feet of exhibit space, a 6% increase since 2011. The new annex has an excess of 60 new companies exhibiting. With all these additions the show will host more than 600 companies, almost 100 more than in previous years.

The event is more than just the latest in ag technology, visitors can take in the 3rd Annual Great Lakes Hybrids Farm Progress Show Shootout Tractor Pull or a country music concert headlined by Chris Cagle.

Don’t forget to download the handy Farm Progress Show app for iPhone and Android. For more information visit the event website, like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.