New tool: Cover crop species selector

The Western Cover Crop Council (WCCC) has released a new cover crop species selector tool for the western U.S.

Users can enter their field locations and select up to three cover cropping goals. The tool then recommends a ranked list of cover crops based on goals, climate and soil type. It combines the expertise of local farmers, researchers, seed companies, nonprofits and other cover crop users to create tailored cover crop recommendations for anyone planting in the western U.S.

The species selector also provides extensive information about individual cover crop species such as growth habits, agronomic considerations, environmental tolerances, termination information and more. Growers, crop consultants, extension personnel and others can use this website to get a recommendation for cover crop species or to browse and learn about different species commonly used in the West.

For more information, visit the website.

Images courtesy of Vermeer.

Vermeer showcases new machines for ranchers

Vermeer showcases new product lines designed for ranchers, including a manure spreader, combination mower and baler.

MSC manure spreader: The spreader has been manufactured with the U.K. company Bunning, which has been making spreaders since the 1960s. The spreader line is relatively new to Vermeer, according to Jordan Schuler, key accounts manager. He likewise emphasized its rugged design.

Depending on the product being spread, the machine can be configured with twin vertical augers for manure and with horizontal beater configurations for lighter products like chicken litter.

605s Rancher Baler: Vermeer’s latest 605s Rancher Baler has a simple, easy-to-use design. Its camless, wide pickup features heavy-duty rubber teeth, and a minimal number of chains make for fewer parts to wear out.

A mechanical net wrap system with a spiral roller improves efficiency, and its rotor design creates better bales.

Available in either 540- or 1,000-rpm options, two models can create either 6-by-5-foot or 6-by-4-foot bales. Optional features include scale kits, twine capability, moisture sensing, auto-lube and a net lift kit.

CM295 Combination Mower. It’s immediately apparent that the CM295 Combination Mower is different from the rest. Instead of pushing the front mower, Vermeer’s front-mount system overhangs and pulls the mower across the field.

Its 29.5-foot cutting width – enabled by a 10.5-foot front cutterbar and two individual rear cutters – has a floating suspension system that complements the front-pull design.

The standard model is available without conditioner rollers. It’s also available with rubber rollers that create uniform hay distribution.

For more information, visit the website.

Image courtesy of Case IH.

Case IH unveils its highest-horsepower tractor yet with Steiger 785 Quadtrac

Case IH is doubling down on power and productivity with the new Steiger 785 Quadtrac, increasing the iconic tractor’s horsepower by almost 10% more than the previous model. The newest Steiger model offers increased power, 853 peak horsepower, for farmers aiming to get even more done on their operations, without decreasing speed.

The higher horsepower has a purpose and drives productivity, allowing farmers to handle larger implements or pull the same implements even faster, offering an impressive 40% torque rise. Designed to provide more power to the ground, the Steiger 785 Quadtrac also offers a superior operator experience and cab comfort.

Two precision Technology Packages are available for the Steiger 785 Quadtrac, with technology features to simplify ordering and ensure customers are equipped with the tech suite they need for their operation. Farmers can gain access to subscription-free, integrated precision technology that delivers automation-driven features such as AccuTurn Pro and AccuSync, along with clear, actionable data through FieldOps, all designed to meet the unique needs of their operation.

The Steiger 785 Quadtrac holds strong value thanks to long-term advantages such as Connectivity Included, providing access to machine and agronomic data without subscription fees, and a simplified SCR-only emission system that keeps engine design simple and allows the engine to focus on producing power while emissions is treated after the engine system.

For more information, visit online or contact your local Case IH dealer.

Image courtesy of Kuhn.

Kuhn adds FC 9830 D RA rear-mounted mower conditioner with windrow merger

Kuhn North America is pleased to add to the lineup of FC 30 D RA Series rear-mounted mower conditioner with windrow merger with the addition of the FC 9830 D RA. Working in combination with the FC 3125 DF or FC 3525 DF front-mounted machines, the FC 9830 D RA allows operators to cut and condition up to 31 feet 10 inches (9.7 meters) in one pass, with impressive industry-leading features Kuhn customers have come to know.

The FC 9830 D RA is ideal for operators making haylage or baleage, or custom operators looking for a mower conditioner with the added capability of merging in a single pass. However, the machine can be used solely as a mower conditioner with the windrow merger in the raised position for use in dry hay applications. The mounted windrow merge system offers operators ultimate flexibility, whether making silage or dry hay.

Operators will appreciate the intuitive ISOBUS controls, which provide seamless in-cab management of key functions such as automatic headland lifting, belt speed, merger belt functions and folding/unfolding. These features enhance productivity and ease of use in the field.

Built for durability and precision, the FC 9830 D RA features Kuhn’s Optidisc Elite cutterbar, a heavy-duty, through-bolted design that is lubed for life. Its slim profile allows for a close cut, while the flat cutterbar angle minimizes soil contamination and extends blade life.

To accommodate the merger belt on each head, the machine incorporates Kuhn’s Lift-Control hydropneumatic suspension system, which offers fast, easy adjustability and superior terrain-following capabilities.

Image courtesy of Kuhn.

Kuhn introduces FB 3125 fixed-chamber round balers

Kuhn North America Inc. is pleased to announce the launch of the Kuhn FB 3125, a fixed-chamber round baler engineered to meet the demands of North American hay and forage producers who value durability, bale density and operational efficiency. Designed in a compact four-wheel drive format, the FB 3125 delivers powerful performance and exceptional bale quality across a wide range of crops. Its rugged construction and low-maintenance design make it an ideal solution for livestock operations, custom balers and midsized farms looking to increase productivity and reduce downtime.

At the heart of the FB 3125 is the 18 PowerTrack Roller System, which ensures rapid, uniform bale formation and excellent density. The rollers engage the bale core quickly for maximum compression, while the heavy-duty bale chamber maintains consistent bale shape, even in tough field conditions. A split driveline design balances operation, with the bale chamber drive on the right and the rotor and pickup drive on the left.

The baler also features Integral Rotor Technology, providing smooth, high-capacity intake with minimal crop damage to preserve forage quality. This maintenance-free system ensures even feeding, even in heavy or variable crop conditions, allowing for faster forward speeds and greater overall productivity.

Operators benefit from the intuitive VT 30 terminal, which offers full in-cab control of baling operations. With features like bale growth detection, binding process control and real-time machine status, the 3.5-inch color touchscreen streamlines the baling and wrapping process with a familiar Kuhn interface.