January 25, 2009
FARMERS MOVING BACK INTO COTTON
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Improved access to water is drawing more farmers back to cotton, and they're looking for ways to simplify the move back into the industry, says Case IH Hay and Harvest Product Manager Geoff Rendell.
"Plantings have increased this season and are expected to go up again next season. While better access to water than we've seen in recent years is enticing farmers back to cotton, the pool of contract harvesters shrunk considerably during the drought. Farmers are looking for machinery solutions that will get them back into cotton and ready for harvest without having to invest in a whole range of equipment," he says.
Case IH's Module Express 625, the only commercially proven picker to build modules as it harvests, makes it easier for farmers to re-mechanise ready for a return to cotton growing. By turning a three-to-five person job into a single-person operation, the Module Express 625 is revolutionising the industry.
"The Module Express has proven itself in two US harvests now and is generating strong interest here in Australia. Like the first harvest, the second US harvest was a big success that demonstrated the benefits of this innovative product. Case IH is leading the way in this product category." Case IH detailed the successful second US harvest during a media event held this week.
"Cotton farmers are also enjoying the benefits of our new Steiger and Magnum tractors, which offer exceptional fuel savings, and the versatile new Puma CVT which reduces soil compaction thanks to its light frame and gives great clearance from crops. Some are also choosing the Patriot sprayer as an alternative to tractor-sprayer combinations, freeing up their tractors for other tasks around the farm." Case IH will launch a new model Patriot, the 3330, later this year. The new model offers 3-4 metres of track width adjustability and a cab-forward design that improves operator comfort and helps with even weight distribution.
Geoff says innovative farmers, including those wanting a new approach as they get back into the industry, are also embracing the latest in precision farming technology. "The latest AFS autoguidance system from Case IH The latest AFS autoguidance system from Case IH allows operators to mark field boundaries and obstacles, which further enables operators to optimize machinery performance in varied situations.," he says.
Geoff says farmers wanting to make the move back into cotton should plan their equipment needs as far in advance as possible. "Unprecedented levels of demand for equipment are continuing and with recent tax stimulus measures generating increased write downs for capital investment, we expect demand to rise even further. If you are thinking about new equipment for your farm or contracting business, you should discuss your needs with your dealer at the earliest opportunity."
For more information about the latest machines, contact your local Case IH dealer or visit www.caseih.com
