Farm Tractors and Machinery

Now is a good time to buy new machinery

admin — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 15:40:09 +0000

Jeff Caldwell
Agriculture Online Multimedia Editor

For the last 3 years, the trend lines for tractor sales all followed the same basic pattern. So far, for 2009, that's been true, with one major exception: The line looks the same, only it's a ways lower on the chart.

Tractor sales have dropped this year, a sign, some say, of the tough economic times. According to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), year-to-date sales for 2009 are around a quarter lower than they were a year ago. For the month of May, a total of 17,782 tractors have been sold, AEM data shows, compared to 24,068 at the same time a year ago. That's a 26.1% sales decline. Those numbers contribute to a 66,676 figure for total tractor sales for the year so far, down 22.6% from last year's 86,091 figure at this point.

But, a look at combine sales paints a totally different picture. In May, farmers bought 739 combines nationwide, compared to 513 for the same month a year ago. That's an almost 44% increase. And, year-to-date, 2,928 combines have sold compared to 2,206 by this time a year ago.

The economic downturn has clearly reached into the farm machinery market, but that doesn't mean it's standing between you and new iron, farmers say. While it may seem too heavy a lift to bring new equipment onto your farm, it all depends on how you do it, says Agriculture Online Machinery Talk member rrustydawg.

"I think the key is to not trade up in one giant step," he says. "$100K to $150K will buy some excellent used iron, and you can use it for 3 or 4 years and probably only drop the resale/trade-in value by 25%. Then, if you want to get some newer paint, you just bump up again.

"Personally, I love low-hour used iron. Great value as long as you are willing to do the extra maintenance."
Others say the economic downturn that's thought to be the culprit of lower sales actually could entice more sales. It's all about how you write off equipment depreciation, says Machinery Talk member Pupdaddy.

"In this economic environment, we have what may be possibly the best time to buy new farm equipment that we've ever experienced. If you buy something, you can depreciate virtually all of it against your income in the first year," he says. "On top of the Section 179 deduction that you can take this year on either new or used is another 50% reduction against your income if the machinery is new.
"I'd run a pencil over those figures this year, and I'm thinking I might be buying a few necessary long-term usage items even if I have to finance them."
And, if that latter point becomes a reality for you, talk to your dealer, adds another Machinery Talk member. They may be just as hungry to sell the machinery as you are to buy it right now.

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Survey Reveals Online Trends for Buying and Selling Farm Machinery

admin — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 22:39:48 +0000

How farmers buy and sell used farm machinery and equipment (FME) is changing due to internet transactions of used FME or farmer opinions of key players in used FME markets such as dealers or auctioneers. Brian Roe, Marvin Batte and Florian Diekmann of Ohio State University led an effort to learn more about U.S. farmers' attitudes and opinions about sales via auction, dealer, classified ad and the internet.

The researchers asked more than 5,200 U.S. farmers about used FME markets during early 2010. More than 2,500 (48%) responded and gave information about recent used FME transactions, ratings of different ways to buy and sell used FME and attitudes and opinions regarding local FME dealers and used FME auction venues.

They found that U.S. farmers were active in used FME markets with 69% purchasing and 40% selling (not including trade-ins) used FME within the past 5 years. Most buyers of used FME bought from dealerships (55%), while other popular purchasing venues included auctions (16%) and classified ads (10%). Less than 5% bought from auctions or ads over the internet. Most buyers felt they paid fair market value (83%) and felt certain about the quality of the item before they took possession (94%). Internet buyers were less likely to say they got a fair deal but were similarly certain of the quality of items.

Most sellers of used FME relied upon personal contacts or simple for-sale signs to sell their equipment (43%), with auctions (22%) and classified ads (22%) being the next most popular mode of sale. Less than 5% of these non-traded used FME items were sold via internet. Most sellers (87%) also felt they received fair market value for their items, including those who sold via internet. When asked about the degree of satisfaction they had with all components of the selling process, those who had sold via internet classified ads reported the greatest satisfaction.

All respondents then rated five different ways of buying or selling used FME: dealership, auction, internet auction, classified ad and internet classified ad. Prospective buyers had the most favorable impressions of dealers and the least favorable impressions of internet auctions, while prospective sellers had the most favorable impressions of classified ads and the least favorable impressions of internet auctions. Despite these unfavorable impressions of internet venues, 55% of prospective buyers and 71% of sellers might consider using internet classified ads in the future.

The study also asked about the number of local FME dealerships that farmers had done business with during the past 5 years and the quality of the relationship the farmer had with the dealership that was most integral to current farming operations. More than 80% had done business with at least two dealerships while 26% had done business with four or more dealers. However, there were regional differences, with farmers in the South and West listing fewer dealer relationships than farmers in the East or Midwest. Most farmers were pleased with the repair and parts service provided by the local dealer (88%) and with how they were treated during sales and trade-ins (77%). However, nearly one in four farmers felt that the business relationship they have with their closest dealership could be in jeopardy if they ‘shopped around' to other dealers to get a better price.

Respondents were asked why they attend auctions and how much trust they would place in the quality of items sold in various auction formats. U.S. farmers were most attracted to auctions for reasons of gauging local market conditions and networking with other farmers and community members rather than as a means of getting better prices or a fairer deal. Farmers also said they were more likely to trust the quality of items being sold at local auctions more than those sold at regional auctions or internet auctions.

The researchers concluded the results paint a first picture of U.S. farmers' engagement in used FME markets and suggest that the internet currently plays a minor role in actual transactions within this key asset market. While few buyers and sellers of used FME currently use the internet, those who reported selling via internet feel they received fair market value and feel a high level of satisfaction with the selling process and many buyers and sellers report they would consider internet venues for future used FME transaction. In order for the internet to grow into a viable venue in this market, buyers will have to be convinced that they are receiving fair market value and more potential sellers must become aware of the low commissions charged by internet auction sites.

For more information, including the full report and copies of the surveys go to: http://aede.osu.edu/people/ roe.30/FME.htm

Bobcat’s Work-Driven Utility Vehicles and Additional Option for Compact Tractors

admin — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 22:32:51 +0000

Bobcat introduces a redesigned line up of utility vehicles and expanded options in their compact tractor line. Since being acquired by Doosan Infracore in 2007, Bobcat continues to build on its 50+ year history.

The first Bobcat utility vehicles were introduced in 2001, and with its third generation of models, these utility vehicles feature more power, greater capacities, improved ride and handling, and faster speeds. The line up benefits from a joint engineering partnership between Bobcat and Polaris to introduce utility vehicles that put work first.

The four models — the 3200, 3400, 3400XL and 3450– includes features ranging from two-wheel drive to the four-wheel drive, two to six passenger, and gas or diesel engines. The series ranges from 24.8 hp to 32 hp with top speeds up to 30 mph.

Operators can easily flip a switch to select from one-wheel (Turf Mode), two-wheel or four-wheel drive on the Bobcat 4x4 models to best match the driving conditions. When the front wheels are engaged in the 4x4 mode, all four wheels receive torque for maximum traction.

Maximum cargo box capacity is 1100 lb., and total vehicle rated capacity is 1600 lb. across the line up.

The 3450 model can be equipped with the RapidLink system. This features a 500 lb. lift capacity, 2’ lift height, and attachments including bucket, push broom, pallet fork and mower.

Since introducing their compact tractors in 2007, Bobcat expands the capabilities with an optional semi-synchronized (SST) gear transmission. The SST is available on Bobcat CT335, CT445, and CT450 compact tractors.

This transmission features 12 forward gears and 12 reverse gears with shuttle-shift capabilities. The SST transmission will provide optimal PTO output and efficiency. It is designed for high-demand rear PTO applications, and it will also excel in applications where a specific speed needs to be maintained for seeding or spraying.

The standard transmission for Bobcat compact tractors is a hydrostatic transmission.

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2010 California Antique Farm Equipment Show Opens April16

admin — Sat, 17 Apr 2010 00:08:57 +0000

TULARE, Calif., (AgPR), April 15, 2010 - Gates open for the 17th Annual California Antique Farm Equipment Show tomorrow, April 16th. Here is the information you need to know.

Hours: Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Exhibitors: Nearly 800 exhibitors from the western states exhibiting antique tractors and farm equipment.

Entertainment: International Agri-Center staff and volunteers welcome Jerry D. Hobbs and the Country Rhythm Makers at 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 17. Tickets for the concert and BBQ dinner are $30 (show admission not included). Contact International Agri-Center staff at 688.1030 to purchase tickets or purchase tickets online at Antiquefarmshow.org.

Barbecues light up at 10 a.m. on Sunday, April 18, for the 7th Annual Rib Cook-Off. Judging starts at 2 p.m. More than $3,500 in cash prizes will be for first second and third places will be awarded in two categories beef and pork ribs.

There is a lot more great entertainment to enjoy. Go to Antiquefarmshow.org for more information.

Ticketing: Online registration and ticket sales for the antique expo are available at Antiquefarmshow.org. Tickets are $8 per day and a combination pass can be purchased for Friday and Saturday for $12. For more information visit Antiquefarmshow.org, e-mail antique@farmshow.org or call 688.1030 or (800) 999.9186.

One New Oliver Front Tractor Tire 3x15 6 hole Wheel Rim

US $56.00

24d 37m

IH Farmall Narrow Front H M 300 350 400 450 460 560 656

US $200.00

25d 10h 13m

1950 OLIVER 77 WIDE FRONT TRACTOR RUNS GOOD

US $9,500.00

28d 3h 15m

OLD ALLIS CHALMERS TRACTOR EMPLOYEE PINBACK BADGE

US $160.00

24d 50m

1958 ANTIQUE FERGUSON TRACTOR TO35 DIESEL SCRAPER VTG

US $5,500.00

20d 11h 14m

CAT D 4 DOZER TRACTOR ANTIQUE BULLDOZER W WINCH

US $2,750.00

16d 20h 25m

Old Farm Toy John Deere Riding Toy Tractor and Trailer

US $495.00

17d 8h 47m

Antique John Deere model L styled Farm Tractor

US $4,099.00

11d 3h 49m

Make Sure Your Tractor is Ready When You Are

admin — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 17:12:56 +0000

There’s nothing more frustrating than turning the ignition on your tractor and finding…nothing happens. While some electrical system maintenance issues may require the services of your New Holland dealer, there are some simple things you can do to help ensure your tractor will be ready when you are.

BATTERY
Check to see if the battery is properly charged. It should have a voltage output of 12.4 volts or greater, with the key OFF. Stabilized voltage after five to ten minutes of operation at 1200 – 1500 rpm will range from: 13.2 volts at 100°F (38°C); 14.2 volts at 70° F (21°C); to 15.2 volts at 32° F (0°C).

Check and clean all battery cable connections yearly.

Be sure the battery cable connections are securely clamped to the battery posts.

Check the battery cable connections for signs of corrosion.
If rust or corrosion is found, clean the battery cable connections with a solution of baking soda and water. (2 or 3 tablespoons baking soda to 1 cup water.) Pour the solution over the connections, brush with a wire brush, and rinse with cold water.

Apply a light coating of petroleum jelly to the terminals to prevent corrosion.
Check battery fluid, be sure battery hold-down clamps are secure and the battery area is clear and clean. Do not use an exposed flame and do not smoke when checking the battery electrolyte level.

ALTERNATOR/FAN BELT:
In order for the battery to hold a charge, it’s important that the alternator belt doesn’t slip.

Check the alternator terminal ends and clean and tighten as necessary.

Visually inspect the condition of the alternator wiring for breaks or signs of wear.

Check the condition of the fan belt for signs of wear and to make sure the tension is correct.

Clean the alternator cooling fan periodically. A visual inspection will tell you when it needs to be cleaned.

ELECTRICAL HARNESSES/CONNECTORS/FUSES:
Inspect electrical harnesses and connectors yearly for visible damage.
If damage is found, contact your New Holland dealer for repairs or replacement.
When checking the condition of fuses, use a Multimeter to accurately determine the condition of the fuse. (Visual inspection of the fuse can be misleading.)

Always replace fuses, maxi fuses, or fusible links with the correct part number or similar part with the same amperage rating.

GROUND WIRE CONNECTORS:
Whether equipped with a cab or a ROPS unit, every New Holland tractor has a central location of multiple terminals or a “ground bank” where a number of ground wires are accumulated. For specific grounds locations, refer to your Operator’s Manual.

Completely loosen the ground connection mounting bolt.

Clean paint and corrosion from the metal mounting surface by using a fine Emory cloth.

Clean each ground connector separately, on both sides of the terminal.

Reinstall the ground connectors, stacking the small terminal on top of the large terminal, and tighten the mounting bolt securely.

Case IH Puma 155 tractor

admin — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 16:58:47 +0000

Author: Terry Stevenson

The Case IH Puma tractor is a versatile large tractor making its mark

• Excellent levels of grunt
• Easy to use transmission
• Powershifting all the way through the gearbox
• Front and cab suspension rides the bumps very well
• Quiet cab with great visibility
• A very manoeuvrable medium sized tractor
• Headland management button

Case IH Puma tractors are now all made in its Austrian factory, and the quality of the product shows.
Puma tasks include mowing, mower conditioner, raking, fertiliser spreading with a trailer, under sowing work.

The cab
The three steps up to the cabin take you into the operator’s room, where all the controls are well placed.
The cab is very quiet, and only four pillars obstruct the operator’s view outside.
With a 4449mm wheelbase, the Puma 155 is the biggest short-wheelbase Puma in the range. The next four models share a 4916mm wheelbase and are 1250kg heavier.

The 50kph Puma 155 was extremely smooth on the road and paddock. With a comfortable seat as a base, the front suspension soaked up the bumps, and helped with stability at top speed on the road.
It has a 55-degree steering lock, making it easy to drive through any awkward gateways.

Performance
On a small downhill section there was good feel and plenty of power stopping the 5600kg Puma 155.
Having plenty of hydraulic power is important to run the big implements, and Len Olesen says his Puma’s four 113-litre/min outlets (two floating) don’t run short.
“I like the extra grunt and, because it’s so smooth, you can’t beat it. I’ve had a 15-tonne trailer load of dirt on it and it was no stress at all. It doesn’t use much diesel, certainly no more than the previous tractor,” he reckons.

Engine
All the tractors in the range share the same 6.7-litre six-cylinder four-valve common rail CNH engine block, but with a different electronic chip and ancillaries.

The intercooled, turbocharged diesel engine produces a lot of grunt. I took it up a short but steepish hill several times in fairly high gears and only once did the motor drop more than 100rpm. So I tried going up at idle in 10th – the Puma barely flinched!
Maximum horsepower output of 160hp comes in at 2200rpm, with a power boost up to 178hp under load by sensing the torque off the PTO shaft. Maximum torque of 874 is at 1600rpm in power boost mode, while normal output is 774 at 1400rpm, fairly low in the rev range, for better economy.

Multi-controller
The multi-controller is a small screen with an armrest-mounted joystick with an array of buttons on top. I could operate forward and reverse changes of direction off the orange button, a repeat of the steering column mounted shuttle lever.
Incorporated into the front “A” pillar are more digital and analogue displays, such as fuel, road speed, time, linkage lift rate, hours and PTO information, to name a few.

Transmission
The full powershift transmission is fantastic. All you have to do to change up or down is to press a button on the multi-controller joystick – no manual gear changes or double-action range changes are required. The operator can quickly select a lower gear if needed on a hill, without stopping the tractor to make a range change.
On the joystick there’s an auto button for when you want the transmission to change automatically, to which I could still manually add or reduce a gear or two, and a few other buttons to operate headland turning, the linkage and two hydraulic outlets.
When I stopped, the Puma 155 automatically moved into the pre-set take-off gear, 12th. When I selected reverse, the tractor would automatically take the reverse gear half of the forward gear (when below 12), as displayed on the multi-controller screen. There are six reverse gears to choose from.

The only aspect I think could be improved was I had to press a button on the shuttle lever to engage neutral when I wanted to stop. I was always using the multi-controller joystick with my right hand to change rears and direction, which didn’t have a neutral button. Meaning I had to take my left hand off the steering wheel to engage neutral, and put my right hand on the steering wheel.

Specifications
Number of cylinders/type 6 turbo, intercooled
Capacity (L) 6.7
Bore x stroke (mm) 104 x 132
Rated power (kW/hp) 117/160
Rated engine speed (rpm) 2200
Max power (kW/hp) 124/168
Max torque (Nm/rpm) 690/1400
Fuel tank (L) 300
Max lift capacity (kg) 8257
Front lift hitch capacity (kg) 3568
Length (mm) 4449
Height (mm) 2985
Width (mm) 2682
Wheelbase (mm) 2789

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Values on 150-horsepower tractors continue to rise

admin — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 23:06:27 +0000

Greg "Machinery Pete" Peterson
Machinerypete.com

Every day, whether on the phone in the office, responding to e-mails, or when I'm out on the road covering machinery auctions around the country, folks ask me this same question. Inquiring minds want to know.
My answer has been the same the last 4 years, "things are selling very well, prices are up." But just my saying it never does it justice. I always want to show folks exactly what I'm talking about, that over the last four years used farm equipment values are indeed up. I like to provide hard proof and let the sale price data tell the tale.

So I'm going to do this today. I'm going to show you hard evidence of how used equipment values have gone up. Ok, now what examples should I show you? Hmm, we track sale price data on over 70 different categories of farm equipment, so lots of different directions I go here. AUGER values have been zooming higher. Same with GRAIN CARTS and GRAIN TRAILERS for sure. With the late, wet harvest last year values on used tillage items like DISKS and DISK CHISELS have been going through the roof.
But I think I'll stick to TRACTORS today, the universal category most everyone is interested in. Let's narrow it down and just focus on tractors in the 150 horsepower range. What I'll do is show you auction sale prices from now vs. five years ago, back in the year 2005.
The comparison just might knock your socks off.

Let's start with JD 7810s. Deere made 7810s from 1997-2003, so we're talking 7-13 year old tractors as we sit here today. First I'll show you what the nicest 7810s were selling for at auction back in 2005. Here you go:

See how the highest auction sale price on a JD 7810 tractor back in 2005 was $78,000? Now look closer. See the last 7810 in the table above? Yes it sold for $78,000, but it was a 2003 model making it only two years old at the time, had mechanical front-wheel drive and sold with a JD 741 loader.

Now compare that to the 2000 model 7810, 2-wheel drive, with 840 hours, no loader, sold last month on a sale in east-central Iowa for $76,000. So this 7810 had no mechanical front-wheel drive, no loader and was 10 years old, yet sold for almost the same money.
See what I'm talking about now when I say used equipment values are up?
Here's more proof, a list of the nicest JD 7810s sold at auction the last couple years:

Look at all those sale prices I've highlighted, all at or above what the nicest JD 7810s were selling for at auction back in 2005. Older, but selling for more money. Proof of what I'm talking about when I say used values have been going up.

Let's move on to other older model Deere tractors in this 150 horsepower range. JD 7800s were made from 1993-96. Let's do the same then vs. now comparison:

JD 4455s? Wow. Back in 2005 the highest auction sale price I saw all year on a 4455 was $49,000. Last Saturday (March 20th) on a consignment sale in southeast Iowa, I shot video of a 1991 model 4455 mechanical front-wheel drive with 6,450 hours, very nice but no spring chicken, selling for $46,000.

You may recall the 4455 I wrote about last October? No, don't remember? I'll refresh your memory. A 1991 4455 mechanical front-wheel drive with 1,423 hours (1 owner, immaculate condition) sold with a JD 280 loader for $94,500. Yep, $94,500. There was also the 1991 4455 with 5,456 hours, mechanical front-wheel drive sold in March 2009 on a sale in east-central North Dakota for $69,000.

More proof, used values have been going up.
Same with red tractors in this 150 horsepower range. Case IH made 7120s from 1987-83. The highest auction price I saw on Case IH 7120s back in 2005? $44,500 for the 1988 7120, mechanical front, with 1,967 1-owner hours, sold in east-central Illinois. Now compare to a few of the nicest 7120s I've seen sold the last couple years:

Same trend, older but worth more.
Exactly the same thing I see with Case IH 7220s:

I guess the lesson here is that used farm equipment values aren't static, they fluctuate up and down. Yes, they can go down friends. I've seen it happen before. Used values were way up back in 1996 and 1997, then fell pretty hard from 1998 through 2001.
Will they fall again after the run up here the last couple years?

Factors working hard against a drop in the value of good condition used equipment currently are the ever rising price of new equipment, controlled production of new equipment and also the scarcity of machinery auctions.

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John Deere 3005 Compact Tractor Review

admin — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 01:28:22 +0000

With 27 horsepower and a 3 cylinder engine the 3005 John Deere compact tractor provides a higher level of power for your tough farming jobs. It boast a Yanmar diesel liquid cooled TNV series engine. The performance enhancements make driving around obstacles easier with a standard power steering that is optional on 2 WD models.You can make shorter turns for those tough corners using the individual pedals which allow independent operation of the left and right brakes. If you need to transport straight line stops the pedals can be locked together and for more traction and pulling power you can turn on the 4WD system with a standard differential lock that can be engaged on the go. For your hydraulic applications there is a dual hydraulic gear pumps, which are off the crankshaft that provide higher capacity.

For driver comfort the driver’s seat is designed for easy entry and exit with steps and handrails on the left side. The high backed seating offers great support for your back while sitting down, also the for and aft are adjustable and the seat flips the other way to protect you from outside factors. The control panel for the drivers include an hourmeter and tachmeter, oil pressure gauge, fuel gauge. Alternator indicator lights, coolant gauge and many warning lights for other various components.

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The 50th annual Wisconsin Public Service Farm Show Opens March 30

admin — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 16:12:19 +0000

The 50th annual Wisconsin Public Service Farm Show returns to the grounds of the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh on Tuesday, March 30, and continues through Thursday, April 1. This year’s show features over 430 exhibitors and is expected to draw thousands of visitors from the Midwest and Canada.

“As always, exhibitors will be showing a variety of products and services of interest to farm owners and operators,” says Rob Juneau, WPS Farm Show manager. “This includes tractors and field machinery and parts; feed, livestock and manure-handling equipment; ventilation systems; lighting; milking and barn equipment and supplies; financial, insurance and real estate services; and seed, feed and fertilizer.”

Juneau adds that the show is “going green” this year by purchasing its electricity through WPS’s NatureWise program. NatureWise offers renewable energy from wind and biomass resources in northeast Wisconsin.
Admission to the farm show is free, and parking is $3 per vehicle. Gates are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday.

“The show comes at the time of year when farmers are anticipating the upcoming planting and haying seasons,” Juneau notes. “That’s why this event has become known as a ‘buying’ show because they’re ready to invest in new equipment and try new methods.”
Among the highlights of this year’s show are the following:
• over 430 vendors throughout the EAA grounds
• more than 800 indoor and outdoor booths covering the 10-acre site
• free motorized scooters for attendees who need mobility assistance
• seminars on energy efficiency, sand separation, ventilation, building integrated photovaltaics
• silent auctions to benefit the Wisconsin FFA Foundation each day
• routine medical screenings provided by University of Wisconsin-
• Oshkosh Health on Tuesday and Thursday only: blood pressure screenings are free, blood sugar screenings cost $5, cholesterol tests cost $10
• centrally located food tent offering a wide selection of food from nonprofit commodity groups
• on-site agricultural consultants from Wisconsin Public Service to answer energy management questions.

How to get to the show
Directions from north of Oshkosh: Take Hwy. 41 south to Ripon Road/Hwy. 44 East (Exit 116). Turn left onto Ripon Road/Hwy. 44 East. Turn right onto Knapp Street. Bear right onto Poberezny Road. Turn left onto Waukau Avenue.
Directions from south of Oshkosh: Take Hwy. 41 north to Ripon Road/Hwy. 44 East (Exit 116). Turn right onto Ripon Road/Hwy. 44 East. Turn right onto Knapp Street. Bear right onto Poberezny Road. Turn left onto Waukau Avenue.
Alternate directions from south of Oshkosh: Take Hwy. 41 north to Hwy. 26/County Road N East (Exit 113). Turn right onto Hwy. 26. Turn left onto Poberezny Road. Turn right onto Waukau Avenue.

Saving the Family Farm

admin — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 07:25:38 +0000

Dan Looker, Successful Farming magazine Business Editor

Politicians from rural states often extol the virtues of the family farm.
But what is it? And what can be done to save what sometimes seems like another endangered species?

Chuck Hassebrook, the executive director of the Center for Rural Affairs laid out a five-step plan for doing both when he delivered a keynote speech Friday at the MOSES conference in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

MOSES, or Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service, drew some 2,800 farmers and supporters of organic agriculture to its annual meeting to hear Hassebrook and attend 60 workshops on February 25 through February 27.
Hassebrook, who grew up on a hog and grain farm near Platte Center, Nebraska, said his nonprofit organization is based in Lyons, Nebraska, a town of 900.

"We don't just talk about rural issues. We live these issues," he said.
Hassebrook, who is also in his second elected term as a member of the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, said that in spite of technology that has brought many benefits to agricultural production, there is a sense of unease in rural America about declining rural population as farms grow ever larger.

Numerous studies by sociologists have shown that small towns surrounded by only a few very large farms tend to have a wealthy elite and no middle class.

"That, my friends, is not progress. It's social decay," Hassebrook said.
Hassebrook mentioned the public's support for locally grown food, more access to nature and "a yearning for greater authenticity and genuineness in America." All of these trends have contributed to the growth in demand for the organic foods grown by some in the MOSES audience. Yet, he said, he s not certain how much public sentiment alone will do to keep family farms in business.
"At the end of the day, it is up to us to take responsibility for our own destiny and to take control of our future," he said.
Hassebrook offered 5 ways to do that:

1. "We need to protect our authenticity," he said. Consumers may not know when they pay double the normal price for natural beef that it comes from a 50,000-head feedlot, he said. And he praised the work of activists who ve pressured USDA to enforce organic standards that require dairy cows to have access to pasture. Besides organic standards, "I think we need to build a family farm standard," he said. A family farm ought to mean that one that owns the means of production, makes management decisions and provides most of the labor, he said.

2. "We need to be entrepreneurial," he said, adding that small towns aren't going to be saved by recruiting large companies to locate there. Economic development in rural America has to be home-grown. And the organic and sustainable agriculture community needs good business models. "There's a lot of failures," he said, but two success stories are Organic Valley, the farmer-owned dairy foods co-op based in La Farge, Wisconsin, and Niman Ranch Pork, managed out of Thornton, Iowa.

3. "We all need to contribute to our community. Our farms have a symbiotic relationship to our community," he said. In Lyons, Nebraska, Hassebrook has worked to get buildings on its main street in the National Register of Historic Places, for example.

4. "We need to protect access to good germplasm," Hassebrook said. That means more than organic farmers having access to elite seed varieties that aren't genetically mondified, he said. It means more competition in the seed industry for conventional farmers. He said that he opposed the University of Nebraska's licensing of dicamba-resistant soybeans to Monsanto but was unable to stop it.

5. The bias toward large farms in federal farm policy needs to be reversed, he said. "We need to simply stop subsidizing the megafarms that are driving [family farms] out of business," he said. The Obama administration could have done that with a tighter USDA standard that requires active management of a farm to qualify for commodity program payments.
"It's very disappointing that the Obama administration that made this the centerpiece of farm policy in Iowa (before Iowa's presidential caucuses), they ve abandoned that," Hassebrook said.

Hassebrook said that the Center for Rural Affairs has begun a web-based campaign to urge the President and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to keep that campaign promise to have tougher farm program payment limits. Click here for more information.