Used Equipment Web Site
John Deere announces that it has overhauled and redesigned its Web site (www.MachineFinder.com). The re-vamped MachineFinder used equipment Web site features an enhanced search and browsing system, built-in shipping integration and the ability to save searches. The changes make it easier to find and review pre-owned ag, construction, forestry, commercial and residential equipment from authorized dealers.
The redesigned MachineFinder includes Google Maps to view equipment location and obtain one-step driving directions, detailed gallery views for higher quality equipment photos and comprehensive equipment information. Another feature is integration with uShip.com (www.uship.com), an online shipping marketplace with a network of specialized tractor and heavy equipment haulers. The uShip integration on MachineFinder provides customers with the ability to obtain immediate shipping cost estimates and receive competitive bids for transporting equipment purchased through MachineFinder.
In addition, users are able to register a profile on MachineFinder, which allows them to save selected equipment, searches, and user settings. Completing the new site are sections for industry-specific news and blogs, and a connection to John Deere Credit for detailed equipment financing information.
Wetland Interim Final Rule
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) of the United States Agriculture Department is seeking public comment on changes to a voluntary program that helps landowners restore their land to its natural wetland condition.
The Wetlands Reserve Program was changed when the 2008 Farm Bill was reauthorized, says Dr. Robert Coats, Extension economist and professor for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
“This is an important program to Arkansas, which ranks No. 2 in the nation in the amount of acreage enrolled in the program,” he says.
More than 2 million acres are enrolled in the program nationwide, with about 150,000 acres in Arkansas. Of that amount, 39,000 acres of shallow water habitat were created, and 80,000 acres of land were reforested in the Natural State, according to NRCS.
USDA invites those interested in wetlands conservation to review this interim final rule, and other rules changes under the new Farm Bill. Written comments on the interim final rule from individuals, governmental agencies and non-governmental organizations are encouraged during the 60-day public comment period, which ends March 16.
The interim final rule is available for viewing at: www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/. The public is invited to submit comments online at www.regulations.gov.
Big Capacity, Narrow Transport
The new Model 3007HD three-section air drill from Great Plains is positive proof that big things can still come in small packages. With a planting width of 30 feet, the 3007HD folds to just 10 feet at its widest point for a safe, easy and hassle-free transport.
“Producers no longer have to worry about narrow bridges, traffic or small gates that lay in their path between fields,” says Tom Evans, vice president of sales at Great Plains. “Yet this machine boasts plenty of capacity throughout, starting with its 30-foot planting width. Equipped with two 100-bushel bulk hoppers, it also has the ability to carry 200 bushels of seed or a combination of seed and dry fertilizer, which means more time planting and less time filling.
“The 3007HD air drill also features a unique hydraulic down-pressure system, which works in conjunction with the parallel linkage to maintain precise opener-to-ground geometry,” he explains. “For a custom fit, customers can choose center rib, double-V or double-wedge press wheels and select from a list of options that include frame-mounted coulters, fluted or Turbo coulter blades and Keeton seed firmers.”
Farmers’ Tax Guide Notes Changes
Farmers preparing to file for the 2008 tax season should note that the Internal Revenue Service has changed its 2008 Publication 225, Farmers’ Tax Guide, according to a Nov. 26 IRS Web notice. Go to www.irs.gov, then go to “Search” in the upper right hand corner. Type in IRS Publication 225 Farmers’ Tax Guide. See pages 2 and 66, “Federally declared disasters.”
LSU AgCenter Farmer Hotline
To help the state’s farmers, the LSU AgCenter has established a farm financial hotline to help them make financial decisions, according to Dr. Kurt Guidry, LSU AgCenter economist.
“Having two major hurricanes make landfall at harvest has greatly impacted projected revenues for producers at a time in which increased input costs have left little margin for error,” Guidry says.
He says producers looking for financial management and disaster assistance information or individual farm financial consultation can call (225) 578-2266.
ASU News
The Arkansas State University Agribusiness Conference is Feb. 15 at the ASU Fowler and Convocation Centers in Jonesboro, Ark. Registration: 8 a.m. Lunch will be served. Afternoon sessions end at 3:30 p.m. The conference will focus on commodity market outlook, world fertilizer markets and the macroeconomic forces impacting ag. Contact Bert Greenwalt: (870) 972-2221 or bertg@astate.edu.