Winter is a good time to plan equipment upgrades

PRINCETON, Ky., (Jan 27, 2010)

With grain crop producers gearing up for another growing season, many are thinking about adding, replacing or upgrading their equipment, especially after wet conditions this past fall.

"Winter is ideal for buying equipment because producers have some extra time to reflect on the past year and review their options," said Sam McNeill, agricultural engineer with the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture. "And as dealers are trying to plan out their workload for the year, equipment discounts are often available to those who plan ahead."

Next month's National Farm Machinery Show offers producers a chance to see available equipment, compare products and view the latest technologies.    

Farmers who are looking for new equipment are doing so for several reasons. Late planting and a delayed harvest in 2009 put those without sufficient drying and storage equipment in a bind. In past years, some farmers heavily relied on natural air drying of the crop, but wet conditions in 2009 did not allow that. This resulted in producers selling much of the crop earlier than planned and at higher moisture levels.

Others are looking to replace outdated equipment or ramp up storage or drying capacity to match their combine's production.

In addition, producers looking to increase the size of their operation in 2010 may need additional storage.

Producers should consider several factors including which piece or pieces of equipment would most improve their operation, their operation's size, capacity of current equipment and harvesting strategy. Reviewing previous harvests helps producers find any recurring equipment deficiencies or problems.

"For some, it could be as simple as adding a heater to a bin to get more drying capacity," McNeill said.

He added that once an equipment decision is made, producers should shop around for the best value and talk to local vendors about their ability to provide any necessary maintenance or repairs to the equipment.

Contact: Sam McNeill, 270-365-7541, ext. 213

Keep the brakes on planting a little longer

Record and near record warm temperatures have many corn producers jumping at the chance to get out in the field and plant corn, but it may be best to wait a little longer, said Chad Lee, extension...
read more

Early summer could come at a price, UK ag meteorologist cautions

Photo depicts damage to apple trees after the Easter Freeze in 2007.

Without looking at the calendar, Kentuckians might easily be fooled into thinking...
read more

The Arboretum gears up to host a Party for the Planet

The Arboretum, on the campus of the University of Kentucky in Lexington, is partnering with LG&E and KU Energy LLC to offer a month-long celebration called Party for the Planet 2012, with activities for...
read more