increase font size
Bale production specialists Vermeer says its new autonomous bale collector, Bale Hawk will save time and labour by removing the manual task of collecting bales from the paddock.
We've got used to many forms of tech in agriculture, such as global positioning systems (GPS), auto steering and variable rate application of fertilisers and sprays. Now it looks like the mundane task of moving bales is about to see an upgrade.
Bale production specialists Vermeer has recently shown where they see the future heading, with a look at their autonomous bale collector, Bale Hawk, that is said to save time and labour by removing the manual task of collecting bales from the paddock.
The patent-pending system uses sensors to detect its position in the paddock, then plots the most effective route to collect up to three bales and transport them to a central location for wrapping or stacking.
Powered by a Deutz powerplant, rubber tracks are then used to move the machine, while similar tracks lift and transport the bales onto the machine. It is said to weigh less than three tonnes, and the manufacturer also suggests there are benefits of reduced compaction, both in terms of the machine’s footprint, but also in the optimal route the unit takes to collect bales. This is in comparison to the haphazard movements and repeated passes that traditional collection by front end loader or telehandler will typically make.
The arrival of new F8 and F9 designations for its 8000 and 9000 series forage harvesters, signals a swag of upgrades from John Deere, highlighted by topping the 1000hp mark for the first time.
Waikato-Bay of Plenty farmer Hugh Jackson recently secured this year’s FMG Young Farmer of the Year title in Invercargill.
Ashburton-based Carrfields has signed an agreement with Manitou to take over the distribution and retail rights for Manitou Agricultural Equipment covering the lower North Island and the South Island, effective August 1, 2025.
With June ending and following the most upbeat National Fieldays for several years, tractor dealers are reporting a lift in sales.
Samasz distributor FarmShop has introduced the new XDF Series Front Mowers, said to be refined for local conditions and to improve cutting precision and wear resistance.
A landmark New Zealand trial has confirmed what many farmers have long suspected - that strategic spring nitrogen use not only boosts pasture growth but delivers measurable gains in lamb growth and ewe condition.
It was recently announced that former MP and Southland farmer Eric Roy has stepped down of New Zealand Pork after seven years. Leo Argent talks with Eric about his time at the organisation and what the future may hold.
It's critical that the horticulture sector works together as part of a goal to double the sector’s exports by 2035.
RaboResearch, the research arm of specialist agriculture industry banker Rabobank, sees positives for the Alliance Group in its proposed majority-stake sale to Ireland's Dawn Meats.
The ACT Party's call for a better deal on the Paris Agreement on climate change is being backed by farmer organisations.
A 50% tariff slapped by the US on goods from India last month has opened an opportunity for New Zealand wool carpets exports to North America.
OPINION: Westland Milk may have won the contract to supply butter to Costco NZ but Open Country Dairy is having…
OPINION: The Gene Technology Bill has divided the farming community with strong arguments on both the pros and cons of…
