More on page 8. INSIDE · consignment and used equipment remarketing services WELCOME TO THE FAMILY With over six decades in the agricultural equipment sales, service and support

Low-Cost Machinery Solutions for the Professional Producer

S P R I N G 2 0 1 5

www.empireag.com

USEDEQUIPMENT

p12-14

INSIDEAGRICULTURE

The View From Here p2

Fewer Cattle Help Keep New Mexico Hay Demand Down p30

Spotlight on Rolling Hay LLC p6

Big Data Agreement Will Bring Farmers More Peace of Mind p26

More on page 8.

INTRODUCING THE EMPIRE COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

TIM ROBINSON, AG GENERAL MANAGER

thefrom here

Spring is in the air coupled with the rumble of machinery, the mooing of cows and the churning of computer hard drives as we in the business of

production agriculture prepare for the crops of 2015. With the current commodity price fluctuations and continued water challenges, proper planting decisions are as important as ever. A long time ago, an industry insider commented to always consider that “planting a crop is the most important thing a grower does.”

A spike in durum wheat demand provided an excellent opportunity to increase planted acres of wheat from the Imperial Valley to The Rio Grande. These wheat acres help offset acres normally committed to other crops, and relieve some of the pressure to either plant higher price-risk crops or to lay out ground.

Water issues in the central valley of California are continuing to drive more produce to the acres on either side of the Colorado River in the southwest and even inward toward acres in central Arizona. While the current produce crops in the Yuma Valley are being cultivated, a late planting is planned to follow behind shortly to extend the season beyond traditional harvest dates.

The cattle feeding industry has been seeing some benefit from lower input costs, however the dairy market is going to be hobbled by lower milk and cheese prices for the foreseeable future. World supply and demand is out of sync and a correction is necessary to bring pricing back in line. Beef prices, while still at the higher side of the spectrum, have been settling downwards as herd building catches up to the reductions experienced in the past 5 years.

As the price of corn pulls other feed and commodity prices with it, we expect a bit of a softening in hay and

forage crop price. However, the acres appear to be stable and the quality of the crops is very good, making the current expectation that yields will help bolster bottom line returns. Cotton acres are anticipated to decline as the price continues to wallow around the 60 cent mark and little support is available to encourage commitment to acres planted.

Within Empire Southwest, we are preparing for another round of supplying the production agriculturist a season of uptime and efficient operations. Our parts and service departments are busy overhauling harvest tools, stocking shelves with preseason inventory, and providing our professional staff with training opportunities at the factories and the training facilities in Mesa.

There are truckloads of both large and small rectangular balers, sickle and rotary windrowers, hay rakes, tillage tools, tractors and a plethora of attachments rolling in from factories all across North America. All of these products are custom built for your needs in the southwest and will be offloaded and professionally prepared for work beginning in just a few weeks.

We are continuing to double down on our commitment to production agriculture and recently formalized our plans. Throughout the spring of 2015 and leading into the introduction of the new

“E” series tractors from Challenger, Empire Agriculture will be highlighting how a partnership with us can enhance your machinery’s opportunity to perform at its finest.

We are looking forward to seeing our professional producer partners continue to do well and hope to visit with you often about opportunities to help.

2 | ACRES

Come on out to one of the upcoming Knotter clinics, grab lunch and let us know what you need to accomplish

your goals in 2015. (See page 18)

2 | ACRES

NOBODY HAS CLODS LIKE THE SOUTHWEST.Nobody but Wilcox makes the High Torque Crumbler to break them.

THE WILCOX 2000 SERIES AND HIGH TORQUE CRUMBLER ... NOBODY BUILDS ONE LIKE IT.

Why settle for any other brand?Six generations of farming innovation backs everything we build. The Wilcox ADVANTAGE™

THE RAKE THAT WON THE WEST!

MODEL 1017FDWB – 17-WHEEL OVERHEAD HAY RAKE

• Available in four models –

1017B, 1017FDB, 1017WB and

1017FDWB

• Enhanced Dur-Adjust spring

system is standard

• Rides on super-duty walking

beams

• E-track system organizes hoses

• Channel list tube supports

eliminate adding gussets

NOWIN

STOCK!RUGGED - GENTLE - FAST

1-800-EMPIRE-1 | www.empireag.com AGRICULTUREBuckeye, AZ623-925-3020

Casa Grande, AZ520-374-3500

Safford, AZ 928-387-8700

Yuma, AZ928-317-7800

Blythe, CA760-921-9500

Imperial, CA760-355-2443

ACRES | 3

HESSTON by Massey Ferguson

The official farm equipment sponsor of the PRCA!Hesston by Massey Ferguson’s commitment

to rodeo runs deep. Hesston has been a long-time supporter of the Professional Rodeo

Cowboys Association (PRCA) and the National Finals Rodeo beginning in 1974, and is now carrying on the tradition as the official tractor and farm implement company of the PRCA.

Hesston is also a proud sponsor of 33 major and regional events across the country, including the Ram Circuit Finals Rodeos, Ram National Circuit Finals Rodeo, Xtreme Bulls, the Justin Playoffs and Championship rodeos, the Women’s Professional Rodeo Assn. Finals Rodeo and of course, the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo held in Las Vegas.

4 | ACRES

Team Hesston Rodeo was formed in 2013 to further expand Hesston’s support of the top cowboys and cowgirls in ProRodeo. When you join the Team Hesston Club, you'll receive exclusive updates on the progress of our Team Hesston cowboys, cowgirls, and Stingray as they blaze their way to Vegas for the 2015

Wranglers National Finals Rodeo. You will also receive updates and information on the latest developments from Hesston's innovative hay and forage products. Join Team Hesston Rodeo and be part of the new World Championship Machine!

www.hesston.com/teamhesstonrodeo

Bill Scott, Machinery Market Manager, wife Shamarie, and friends Ryan and Kristee enjoyed a fun night at the rodeo.

Thank you to all of our clients for joining us at the NFR!

JOIN TEAM HESSTON!

ACRES | 5

Rolling Hay LLC was established in 2010 by cousins, Chris and Daniel Dobson. The custom hay baling operation has 17 hardworking employees and

currently takes care of up to six thousand acres. What was once a small business, starting with 1,300 acres, has expanded into a sprawling operation solely through word-of-mouth referrals. For Chris, nothing is more satisfying than trying to create the perfect bale of hay; he says they are constantly trying to improve their process.

When Chris is not working at Rolling Hay, he is focusing on his personal farm in Florence, sitting on the council of SPR, or most importantly, spending time with his family. His farm in Florence has 300 acres of alfalfa and 200 in cotton; it’s a new project he has been working on for the past two years. Chris also represents District 8 on the Salt River Project Association council, where he enacts and amends bylaws relating to the governing bodies of SRP and serves as a liaison to landowners. The job that keeps him the busiest is being a father and husband.

Rolling Hay LLCSPOTLIGHT ON

Chris and wife Jenny have their hands full raising Allison, 19, Ava, 8, Chandler, 6, Warner, 4, and twin boys, Miller and Grayson, 2

CHANDLER, AZ

6 | ACRES

IS YOUR MACHINE TRYING TO SEND YOU A MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE?Lower the cost of operating and maintaining your equipment.

SOS FLUIDS LAB AND CONDITION MONITORING SERVICES INCLUDE:• Oil analysis & testing • Fluid analysis • Coolant analysis • Training • Microscope analysis (480) 633-4835 empirecat.com/fluidslab

NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY!

NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY!

(480) 633-4835 empirecat.com/fluidslab

RENTALKeep moving with top-quality rental machines and power equipment from Empire Rental. Our fleet of machines from Caterpillar and other trusted brands are low-hour, well maintained and ready to go when you are.

Daily, weekly or monthly terms available. For more information, call 480-308-9150 or 1-800-RENT-CAT.

GET IT DONE WITHMACHINES

1-800-EMPIRE-1 | www.empireag.com

Buckeye, AZ Casa Grande, AZ Safford, AZ Yuma, AZ Blythe, CA Imperial, CA623-925-3020 520-374-3500 928-387-8700 928-317-7800 760-921-9500 760-355-2443

AGRICULTURE

ACRES | 7

AGRICULTURE

THE EMPIRE COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

You have high expectations and we are committed to exceeding them.

Empire’s capabilities are diverse and multi-faceted – Sales, Parts, Service, Product Support and Rental. Each individually servicing your specific needs, but collectively committed to helping your business succeed. At Empire, you are more than a customer – you are our client – and it is our responsibility to look out for your best interest. For 65 years, we have committed ourselves to going above and beyond to deliver exceptional client experiences. By understanding the markets you serve, we are able to offer services that enhance your business through profitability, productivity, availability and efficiency. Plain and simple, helping you prosper is why we are here.

Commitment is more than a word and we look forward to proving it.

8 | ACRES

THE EMPIRE AGRICULTURE COMMITMENT INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING FOR CHALLENGER® 500E, 600E, 700E, 800E, 900E MODELS

1 Operator training and comprehensive equipment walk-around with every delivery

2 Free 1,000-hour interval in-shop inspections for the life of your equipment

3 Unlimited travel time and mileage for standard warranty repairs

4 No in-shop labor charges on manufacturer recommended service intervals during first year of ownership

5 Coverage on parts freight for emergency warranty repairs

6 Guaranteed 2-hour response time for warranty repairs

7 Free loaner equipment for warranty repairs beyond 48 hours

8 24/7 access to factory-trained parts, service and technical support teams

9 Specialized trade valuations, consignment and used equipment remarketing services

WELCOME TO THE FAMILY

With over six decades in the agricultural equipment sales, service and support business – Empire respects and understands your business. Our roots run deep and we are committed to delivering service and support that will exceed your expectations. This goes for the entire lifetime of your equipment, far beyond the warranty expiration date.

Our experienced team is positioned to handle all of your production equipment needs and perform the necessary steps to ensure your satisfaction. We promise to deliver the uptime you expect, including a professional pre-delivery inspection and setup specific to your operation. We will do all of this while upholding our company values and treating you like part of our Empire family.

If you find that we are not delivering on our commitment, please contact me personally.Sincerely, Tim RobinsonGeneral Manager


Buckeye, AZ Casa Grande, AZ Safford, AZ Yuma, AZ Blythe, CA Imperial, CA623-925-3020 520-374-3500 928-387-8700 928-317-7800 760-921-9500 760-355-2443

ACRES | 9

Stop by (DEALER NAME) or visit our website at (YOUR WEB ADDRESS).

Premium performance of a bigger tractor. Sized for Y O U R operation.

READY TO STEP UP from your compact? The new Massey Ferguson® 1700 Series is your answer. It’s built

tough for hauling, loading, digging, and plowing jobs. But it’s easy to operate, offering two different transmissions

that make it more like driving a car. With six models, the 1700 Series is ideal for small mixed and specialty farms,

hunting properties, and landscaping businesses. To learn more stop by soon or visit masseyferguson.us.

1700 Series: a new kind of compact for all kinds of farms and properties.

© 2013 AGCO Corporation, 4205 River Green Parkway, Duluth, GA 30096 (877) 525-4384. MF13C026TCG MASSEY FERGUSON is a worldwide brand of AGCO.

Dealer imprint here,Gill Sans Bold, 18 to 20 pt. size

Small in size. Big on productivity.

© 2014 AGCO Corporation, 4205 River Green Parkway, Duluth, GA 30096 (877) 525-4384. *Prices subject to change without notice. MASSEY FERGUSON is a worldwide brand of AGCO.

Blythe, CA (760) 921-9500

Buckeye, AZ (623) 925-3020

Casa Grande, AZ (520) 374-3500

Imperial, CA (760) 355-2443

Yuma, AZ (928) 317-7800

www.empireag.com

These tractors are bigger than they look. They’re Massey Ferguson® compact and utility tractors, and they won’t quit until you do. Featuring quiet yet powerful engines that help you dig, plow, mow and more, these tractors are tough on the outside—and easy to operate on the inside. With futuristic styling and plenty of leg room, they’re designed to keep you comfortable, job after job.

Visit Empire Agriculture today to learn more.

1500 Seriesas low as

per mo.*

$374

0% Financing

0% Financing

0% Financing

0% Financing

for 72 months

for 72 months

for 60 months

for 60 months


per mo.*

$357


per mo.*

$3694600 Series

as low as

per mo.*

$573

Buckeye, AZ623-925-3020


Safford, AZ 928-387-8700

Yuma, AZ928-317-7800

Blythe, CA760-921-9500


Stop by (DEALER NAME) or visit our website at (YOUR WEB ADDRESS).

Premium performance of a bigger tractor. Sized for Y O U R operation.

READY TO STEP UP from your compact? The new Massey Ferguson® 1700 Series is your answer. It’s built

tough for hauling, loading, digging, and plowing jobs. But it’s easy to operate, offering two different transmissions

that make it more like driving a car. With six models, the 1700 Series is ideal for small mixed and specialty farms,

hunting properties, and landscaping businesses. To learn more stop by soon or visit masseyferguson.us.

1700 Series: a new kind of compact for all kinds of farms and properties.

© 2013 AGCO Corporation, 4205 River Green Parkway, Duluth, GA 30096 (877) 525-4384. MF13C026TCG MASSEY FERGUSON is a worldwide brand of AGCO.

Dealer imprint here,Gill Sans Bold, 18 to 20 pt. size

PRECISION FINISHING SCRAPER LASER PFSPrecision laser and GPS leveling in diverse applications

- open fields, feedlots, dairy, construction, open mining and any place where exact leveling is required

Also serves as a standard leveler in conventional situations

CALL EMPIRE PARTS: 520-374-3500

ROADIE 20: Small but mighty

TUNDRA 35, 45, AND 65: Tundra is a rugged, all-purpose cooler that comes in a variety of sizes for wilderness expeditions, hunting, fishing, tailgating, and more.

Each come in White and Tan.

Mesa, AZ1835 S. Macdonald, Suite 101Mesa, AZ 85210602-437-0410

Yuma, AZ1700 South 1st Avenue, Suite 108Yuma, AZ 85364928-782-3887

Two locations: Dan Benedict Agriculture Sales Manager602-339-8202

Manix Iniguez Product Specialist928-580-3031

Farms around the world rely on their local conditions to allow their farms to be successful. The addition of on-board weighing allows them to remove one of the unknown elements of their business.

Have the ability and awareness to weigh and measure all feed, stock items and any other items which are shifted via your loader or tractor.

• prevents over/under feeding• allows the most effective use of products• accurate product inventories• increase visibility over your farm

TRIMBLE LOADRITE WHEEL LOADER SCALES

ACRES | 11

USED EQUIPMENT

Windrower MASSEY-FERGUSON MFWR9740$59,500

SAFFE124840 Windrower

MASSEY-FERGUSON MFWR9740$59,500

CASAE124844

BalerMASSEY-FERGUSON MF1843S$32,500

IME119401Baler

FREEMAN 385$13,900

E115016

BU

Windrower MASSEY-FERGUSON MFWR9740$59,500

CASAE124846 Combine

CATERPILLAR LEX460$49,500

YUE123349

Baler CHALLENGER LB34$35,000

IME126367

BalerMASSEY-FERGUSON MF2170 $35,000

BUE119516

WindrowerMASSEY-FERGUSON MFWR9740$63,200

ELE120767

WindrowerMASSEY-FERGUSON MFWR9740 $57,500

CASAE120761 Windrower

MASSEY-FERGUSON MFWR9740$59,500

E124848

CASA


E126392

BLBalerCHALLENGER LB44$26,000

E125277

IM

BalerJOHN DEERE 328$11,867

ELE125555

WindrowerNEW HOLLAND HW340$22,300

IME126164


IME127426

BalerNEW HOLLAND BB9080$33,500

E127089

COMG

Baler2012 CHALLENGER CHLB34B$Call

YUE128439

WindrowerCHALLENGER CHWR9760$74,900

E128215

COMG

BalerNEW HOLLAND BB9080 $35,000

E127092

COMG

(FILE PHOTO)

12 | ACRES

All prices and availability subject to change.

Call 1-877-769-1150

TractorCHALLENGER MT765B $119,900

IME122544

TractorCHALLENGER MT755$79,500

YUE122163

TractorCHALLENGER MT765B$138,995

YUE122965 Tractor

CHALLENGER MT765C$119,000

IME125571

Backhoe LoaderJ C BAMFORD 3C$28,000

ELE126227

TractorJOHN DEERE 8320RT$155,000

YUE127292

Tractor MASSEY-FERGUSON MF4609$35,300

BLYTE128171 Tractor

MASSEY-FERGUSON MF4609 $35,300

BLYTE128172

RakeDARF$13,500

IME127972

TractorCHALLENGER MT855B$144,500

BUE128204

RakeDARF 950BR$8,000

IME127973

TractorMASSEY-FERGUSON 8460$52,000

COMGE127658Tractor

MASSEY-FERGUSON 8480$15,000

COMGE127657

SeederMISC/UNKNOWN$Call

E128089

IM

TractorCHALLENGER MT535D$86,500

E127059

BU

2014 TRAIL KING TRAILERS OLB36-96$72,500

T100823 2015 MAC TRAILER END DUMP$65,500

T1009292015 BELLY DUMP$42,000

T100974

RakeDARF$Call

COMGE128383

Call Mike Shannon

602-627-5701

NEW!NEW!

NEW!

ACRES | 13

Call 1-877-769-1150USED EQUIPMENT

Backhoe Loader 2011 CAT 420E 4EO S/N DJL01180, 3015 hours, OROPS, 4WD e-stick, joystick controls, 1.4 yd front bucket$60,500

E110256

Water Truck2007 Kenworth 4K Truck SN 2NKMLD9X67M203759, 7512 hours, Tier 3, electric starter, water pump, hose reel, multiple sprayers$72,000

CN11381

Motor Grader1998 CAT 140HS/N 2ZK03434, pushblock & ripper, 14’ blade, 9750 hours$129,300

E125341

Excavator2010 CAT 307DS/N DSG00367, 2658 hours, bucket, leveling blade, 1 piece boom, enclosed cab, 18” TG tracks$55,660

E114013

Wheeled Excavator 1997 CAT M318S/N 8AL00912, cab, quick coupler, 36” bucket, AC/heat, high ambient cooling, aux. hydraulics$38,842

CN11475

Excavator1996 CAT 320LS/N 9KK05422, EROPS, AC/heat, 24” track shoe, B-family linkage, 9’6” stick, 18’7” boom$45,900

CN11443

Skid Steer Loader 2005 New Holland LS 160S/N LMU029222, unknown hours, fork, bucket, OROPS, lights, diesel engine$16,200

E124507

Light Tower 2006 Multiquip Lite Tower S/N 903973, pintle hitch, 3817 hours, located in Eloy store$3,788

E126343

Skid Steer Loader 2011 CAT 216B3S/N JXM02137, 697 hours, bucket, OROPS, Tier 4 engine, diesel engine, suspension seat$20,500

E113322

Scraper1990 CAT 613CS/N 92X02069, CAB, AC/Heat, Rock Guard, 6507 hours on meter, 23.5-25 tires$32,470

E127672

Backhoe Loader2003 CAT 420D 4ECS/N FEP10365, 3574 hours, 4WD, cab, e-stick, 1.4 yd front bucket, joystick controls, AC/heat$49,200

E127953

Water Truck2007 Freightliner 2K TruckSN 1FVACWDDX7HW66813, 26,908 miles, valew tank, manual valves, EROPS, front/rear spray system$46,842

CN11470

Excavator 2011 Kubota Tractor U35 S/N 40134, hours meter @ 187, leveling blade, 16” & 18” buckets, OROPS$28,600

E125956

Skid Steer Loader 2008 BOBCAT S130 S/N A3KY20269, unknown hours, bucket, OROPS, lights, diesel engine$17,300

E128140

Water Tower 2006 MEGA CORP 12K TOWERSN 06-37322, 1 axle, 12,000 gallon capacity$35,700

E127949

Telehandler 2012 CAT TH514SN TBW00441, side tilt carriage, OROPS, 45’ reach, stabilizers1,868 hours, pallet forks$88,560

E112499

14 | ACRES

PRODUCT LINES WE CARRY:

sunflowermfg com

BY DR. AYMAN MOSTAFA, Assistant Area Agent, Field Crops IPM,University of Arizona Cooperative Extension

Forage quality parameters are sometimes subject of debates among people dealing with forage; either as grower, dairyman or lab analyst. Some forage quality parameters such as ADF (acid detergent fiber), NDF (neutral detergent fiber), and protein, are measured. ADF refers to cell wall portions in the silage that are made up of cellulose and lignin and NDF refers to the total cell wall (ADF + hemicellulose). Low values of ADF and NDF are desirable because ADF and NDF are inversely related to digestibility of silage and dry matter intake (the amount of silage the animal can consume). Total digestible nutrients (TDN) is the sum of digestible nutrients in the forage which includes crude protein, fat, sugars, starch, and digestible

fiber. TDN can be measured directly, but is most often calculated from a mathematical formula using ADF (acid detergent fiber) as the sole measured value. Although TDN and ADF are related to each other, the relationship varies by region or lab and is subject to different formulas and interpretation by the individual nutritionist.

Another important parameter is Relative Feed Value (RFV) is a calculated index of forage quality that is very useful in comparing different types of forages. RFV provides an indication of digestibility of a forage as does total digestible nutrients (TDN), but also includes intake potential. RFV is calculated

from both ADF and NDF, whereas TDN is calculated from ADF only.

Banking Water in Alfalfa: Many growers apply more water than alfalfa needs during the winter in order to have "water in the bank" during the summer. This practice does have some merit on deep soils if irrigation water is in short supply during the summer. Subsoil moisture can contribute to yield and stand survival when alfalfa is stressed for water. Alfalfa is a deep-rooted crop and can take up water from depths of 8 feet or more. Subsoil moisture at a depth of 20 to 30 feet has been reported to contribute to alfalfa survival in drought years under dry land conditions.

From the Extension Office

Alfalfa

ACRES | 15

BY SCOTT GARVEY

With cold temperatures back again, most prairie farmers are resigning

themselves to the task of operating farm equipment through another Canadian winter — forecast again to be a nasty one. At the same time, one group has taken their tractor to the coldest continent on the planet — on purpose!

The Antarctica2 expedition intends to retrace the path of explorer Sir Edmund Hillary, who used Ferguson tractors in his 1953 expedition to the South Pole, marking the first time anyone had used motorized vehicles to get there.

Setting off on November 22nd, lead driver Manon Ossevoort, a woman from the Netherlands, and her support team, driving a modern Massey Ferguson 5610 tractor, began recreating that adventure. But they haven’t just picked up a tractor off a dealer’s lot and headed south. Their 5610 has undergone a lot of extreme weather testing to prepare it for the trip. I would think just taking a tractor from Saskatchewan would have saved engineers some time.

The Trelleborg tires on the 5610 were redesigned especially for Antarctic conditions. Tread bar depth was reduced and the shoulders were rounded off to create traction better suited to the snow and ice they’ll face. The tire carcasses were designed to work with extremely low pressure.

Cold weather oil was provided by Castrol, and glycol tubes were run around the engine and transaxle to help keep fluid temperatures up. Additional insulation was added to the cab to help protect the ECM and wiring from faults caused by extreme weather.

In case the tractor gets stuck in an ice cravasse, a 1.6 metre tow bar was built into the chassis to help get it out quickly and safely.

Only 48 hours into their trip, the team found themselves cut off from the outside world when satellite communications were disrupted by a solar storm. But things are apparently back on track and the team is making progress.

Massey Ferguson South Polegoes to the

In taking Antarctica2’s Expedition Lead Driver, Manon Ossevoort, safely to her South Pole destination, the MF 5610 helped her fulfil a 12-year dream to drive a tractor to the ‘end of the world’.

16 | ACRES

MONTEZUMA TOOLBOXES

Tool inventory at a glance

Limited 5-Year Warranty

Locking latch secures tools from unauthorized use

Weather stripping creates a tight seal against dust and moisture

CALL EMPIRE PARTS:520-374-3500

• Insulation is pressure-injected for exceptional thermal resistance

• Extra-thick 3-inch walls, long-lasting ice retention

• Easy drain system

• Stainless steel latches

HEAVY-DUTY

COOLERS


HESSTON and MASSEY FERGUSON are registered trademarks of AGCO. © 2013 AGCO Corporation, 4205 River Green Parkway, Duluth, GA 30096 (877) 525-4384 HS13C010TCG

I N T R O D U C I N G T H E 1 8 4 4 small square baler from Hesston. Our unique center-line feed

design lets you go from road to field without adjustments and straddle the windrow, just like our large

square baler. You can count on the highest capacity, plus the kind of bale consistency and density you've

come to expect from Hesston. See us soon or go to Hesston.com.

AGRICULTURE

The new three-twine baler that won the West.

Buckeye, AZ623-925-3020


Safford, AZ 928-387-8700

Yuma, AZ928-317-7800

Blythe, CA760-921-9500


ACRES | 17

PRESENTED BY THE EMPIRE AGRICULTURE TEAM

�notterCLINICS

2O15

YOU’RE INVITED!

Get ready for these events! UPCOMING

EVENTSMARK YOUR CALENDARS

REGISTER AT THE COUNTER or www.empireag.com/knotter or 480.633.5433

RSVP

Se Habla Espanol Presentations in Spanish and English.

DATES5 LOCATIONS5

Kick off your hay-baling season at this popular and informative event! It’s FREE to all hay equipment owners, operators and maintenance teams.

Information and demonstrations:• Increasing your hay production• Inspection and safety tips• Machine settings and field

adjustments• Maintenance scheduling• Q&A with manufacturers’ reps and

agriculture specialists

PRIZES AWARDED AT EACH EVENT

• World Ag Expo

February 10-12

• Southwest Ag Summit

February 25-26

• Commodity Classic

February 26-28

FEBRUARY

• Yuma Lettuce Days

February 28-March 3

• Arizona Farming & Ranching Hall of Fame Dinner, Laveen

March 7

• Pinal County Fair

March 18-23

MARCH

Visit www.empireag.com/Resources/Events/ for more information.

9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. AT ALL LOCATIONS

*9.00 a.m. Pacific Standard Time

Blythe, CA*190 S. Intake Blvd.Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Imperial, CA*3393 Highway 86Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Yuma, AZ3385 E. Gila Ridge Rd.Thursday, February 19, 2015

1

2

3

5

4 Buckeye, AZ26403 W. Highway 85Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Casa Grande, AZ8901 W. Highway 287Wednesday, March 4, 2015

18 | ACRES


AGRICULTUREBuckeye, AZ623-925-3020


Safford, AZ 928-387-8700

Yuma, AZ928-317-7800

Blythe, CA760-921-9500


The world’s best-selling self-propelled forage harvester offers a range of features. Highly efficient, with a maximized throughput on minimum engine output, JAGUAR is the smooth running, exceptional choice for customizable forage harvesting. Discover technology that makes doing the work even more manageable and fuel-efficient.

In the field, nothing can match the intelligence, innovation and inspiration you’ll find in the LEXION 700 series. Experience the benefits of award-winning technology and industry-leading fuel efficiency. And discover the flexibility available from a full line of LEXION machines, class 6 through class 10, ready to tackle any field condition and the demands of your operation.

JAGUAR. Multi-talented.

Unmatched Performance.

FINANCING

OPTIONS

AVAILABLE!

ACRES | 19


AGRICULTURE

Buckeye, AZ623-925-3020


Safford, AZ 928-387-8700

Yuma, AZ928-317-7800

Blythe, CA760-921-9500


Catch this riveting performance! Schedule

a demo with Empire Ag by visiting

theedgeoffarming.com

20 | ACRES

Este has been working in the agriculture industry in Yuma his whole life. He started working at the Barkley farm, where his grandpa was a shop foreman, then came to work for Empire in October 2011.

Este’s main priority is spending time with his children Payton, age 7, and Audrina, age 5, and girlfriend Lorayne. Some of their favorite pastimes include playing wiffleball and traveling together. In his spare time, he is focused on obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree from the University of Arizona. He is also an avid deer, elk and dove hunter, and is currently teaching his son all about bow hunting.

TEAM:Meet the

Este PayanParts Sales Leadperson, [email protected] Audrina, age 5

Payton, age 7

The best part of his job is solving problems for his clients, most of whom he has grown up with in Yuma. His son Payton enjoys visiting Dad at work, often admiring the equipment and tagging along to visit clients at the work sites.

Este with girlfriend, Lorayne

THE FINEST AND MOST RELIABLE EQUIPMENT AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

We have a wide variety of Gearmore implements in stock.

520-251-2792

ACRES | 21

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1-800-EMPIRE-1 | www.empireag.com AGRICULTUREBuckeye, AZ623-925-3020


Safford, AZ 928-387-8700

Yuma, AZ928-317-7800

Blythe, CA760-921-9500


928-387-8700

NOW IN SAFFORD!DEDICATED AG LOCATION

Empire Ag is committed to serving the

Southeast Valley.

22 | ACRES

PARTS SPECIALS

BRIDON & AGCO TWINE

Empire Ag carries a full line of AGCO and Bridon twine. Stock up!

TIME & MONEY

SAVE

BUY IN PALLETS AND SAVE UP TO $2 PER BOX!

KNOTTER REBUILD KITS

1843 KNOTTER KIT: $700 (reg $787)

2170 KNOTTER KIT: $570 (reg $650)

WHY REBUILD THAT KNOTTER HEAD?

Knotter head assembly #700709740, REPLACE IT AT A DISCOUNT!

reg price $1,285,

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• Knife part #A31-182 and #A31-172• Knife shield part #700127072• Bolt part #700711964• Nut part #700127073

READY TO REBUILD? YOU HAVE OPTIONS!Rebuild packages for your pickup assembly

Good • 56 Tines • 8 Cam Bearings

$700 ($743 value)

Better• 56 Tines• 8 Cam Bearings• 8 Tine Bar Bearings• 16 Flanges

$950 ($1018 value)

Best• 56 Tines• 8 Cam Bearings• 8 Tine Bar Bearings• 16 Flanges• 12 Wrappers• 1 Cam Track #700116125• 1 Cam Track #700137751

$1,375 ($1524 value)For details, contact your Empire PSSR or call the parts department at any location.

CALL: 520-374-3525

ACRES | 23

Wilcox 1000 Ripper E120090

Sunflower 9413-20 Planter E115107

SA

Wilcox Performer E119214

YU

Sunflower 1710-14 Disc E115231

BU

Sunflower 4412-05 Disc E116871

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CHAHCT Twin Max Auger Header E121483

Sunflower SF4412 RIP Disc E116748

BU

Wilcox Eliminator E116461

Gearmore 6' OFF Disc E117872

BU

Showcase

Disc Disc Ripper

Tillage Disc Planter

Disc Header Tillage

NOW IN

STOCK! 520-374-3500

24 | ACRES


AGRICULTUREBuckeye, AZ623-925-3020


Safford, AZ 928-387-8700

Yuma, AZ928-317-7800

Blythe, CA760-921-9500


SOURCE – AGWEB.COM

A major agreement between farm groups and agricultural technology providers should allay some of farmers’ concerns about the growing volume and

detail of data being collected on their farms.

“This is a brave new world we are in,” said American Farm Bureau Federation President Bob Stallman, speaking on AgriTalk after the news was announced November 13. “Some of this new technology is amazing. It holds great promise for American agriculture — maybe even as much as mechanization did. But at the same time, there were a lot of concerns for producers, because it involves turning over your personal data.”

Their worries are understandable. Precision agriculture technology, which can involve everything from computerized crop yield data to GPS to drones, offers

Big Data Agreement Will Bring Farmers More

A new agreement between farm groups and agricultural technology providers says that farmers own their precision farming data.

Peace of Mind

26 | ACRES

vast practical applications for farmers, who can use the data to make better crop decisions. But it’s also a type of technology that is growing fast — one report suggested the precision ag market could be more than $4.5 billion worldwide by 2020 — and uncharted implications for farmers’ physical and financial privacy.

Under this agreement, though, farmers clearly own their information. "This seems simple, but the reality of modern farming makes this statement more complicated," attorney and former farmer Todd Janzen pointed out on his blog. "A farmer owns their data, sure, but who is the 'farmer' when, for example, a retired farmer leases his land to a neighboring farmer on a crop share arrangement? This principle establishes the baseline default principle — the person who farms the land owns the data generated by their farming activities."

“We’ve got the innovators, but even the early adopters were saying, ‘You know, until I know who owns this data and how it’s going to be used, I think I’m going to hold back for a little while,’” said Chip Flory, editorial director of Pro Farmer, also speaking on AgriTalk. “This kind of agreement is going to ramp up the acceptance of the new types of technology that’s out there and available.”

Stallman agreed. “It just creates a greater comfort level in the minds of farmers,” he said.

Major firms have signed onto the effort, including Beck’s Hybrids, Dow AgroSciences, John Deere, DuPont Pioneer, Raven Industries, and Monsanto’s The Climate Corporation. So have large farm groups, such as the American Soybean Association, the National Corn Growers Association, the National Association of Wheat Growers, the National Farmers Union, the USA Rice Federation, in addition to Stallman’s group.

Called “Privacy and Security Principles for Farm Data,” the agreement essentially outlines the expectations for handling that data for both farmers and agricultural technology providers.

For example, farmers will retain ownership of their data, but agree to share that data with relevant parties: landlords, co-ops, tenants, and the ag technology

companies involved. Farmers must consent to any collection, access, or use of their data by the ag tech companies, and those companies must also tell farmers how they expect to collect, use, or share that data. If the company wants to share or sell farmers’ identifiable information, they must give farmers the chance to opt out of disclosing that data.

The principles also offer a roadmap for farmers who may want to make some changes to their precision farming practices. According to the agreement, farmers who change ag tech providers should be able to retrieve their farm data for use in another system. That data also can’t linger in that ag providers’

databases forever; companies need to permanently erase those farmers’ information upon request or after a certain amount of time.

It’s not perfect, but it is a start, according to Stallman. “Frankly, there’s a lot of nervousness about ‘the cloud’ holding all your data, including geospatial data. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to make that [GPS data into] personal data real quickly,” he said. “The concern about privacy is real.”

“The concern about privacy

is real.”

ACRES | 27

BY SCOTT GARVEY

AGCO added new Sunflower brand models to two of its tillage implement lines in August — the 1436SW

(the SW refers to the split wing frame design) tandem disc harrow and the 6650 vertical tillage tool. AGCO gave farmers their first look at them during the U.S. Farm Progress Show in the early fall.

The new model 6650-48 pushes the maximum working width to 47 feet, 11 inches in the 6650 vertical tillage line.

“Sunflower is excited to offer the 6650-48 vertical tillage tool to today’s conservation-minded farmers,” says Larry Kuster, AGCO senior marketing specialist for tillage. “It provides a significant boost in productivity by harnessing the potential of high-horsepower tractors with the ability to cover more than 38 acres an hour.”

The 6650 Series tools use the brand’s large-diameter Saber disc blades in gangs set at an 18-degree angle.

At the U.S. Farm Progress show in August, AGCO introduced wider working widths for Sunflower® tandem disc harrow and vertical tillage implements

New implements from

The 6650-48 has a five-section frame that folds to a transport width of just over 18 feet. The frame is made from 6×6-inch square tubing with a 3/8-inch thickness for strength and to give the implement its weight. When unfolded, hydraulic cylinders lock the wings in place and permit pivoting only at the lower hinges near the gangs, which allows the implement to more closely follow field contours.

Sunflower tandem disc harrows use a 20-degree gang angle and concave discs to cut and bury crop residue to speed up the breakdown of plant material.

The 1436SW Series of tandem disc harrows sees the addition of two new working widths, the 33 foot, three inch 1436-33SW and the wider 38 foot 1436-38SW. 1436SW implements weigh up to 600 pounds per working-width foot, allowing them to penetrate firm soils.

This line uses a 20-degree gang angle and full concavity disc blades to more aggressively cut and bury field residue. Both front and rear gangs are offset to allow the front gang to cut the entire working width. The rear gang creates a feathering effect that prevents ridge and valley profiles in the wake of the machine. Both sets of gangs ride on C-Flex bearing standards to absorb shocks encountered when striking field obstacles.

“They mix residue and topsoil to provide an ideal environment for microbial decomposition of the stalks,” says Kuster. “With today’s tough stalks, increased compaction in many fields, and herbicide-resistant weeds, a high-performing tillage tool is more important than ever.”

AGCO

28 | ACRES

EVERY FIELD DESERVES A PROFESSIONAL-GRADE SPRAYER. MEET YOURS.

165-hp 4.9-liter AGCO Power engine delivers a whopping 522 ft.-lb. of torque

With +/- 1 psi, get the most accurate application and coverage in the entire industry

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ApplyLikeAPro.com/RG700

With the RG700, you get a professionally built machine that will deliver the goods when you need it. Specifically designed for smaller field sizes, the RG700 has all the power you need to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

RoGator® is a registered trademark of AGCO Corporation.

ACRES | 29

Alfalfa production could reach record levels this year, according to USDA’s October 10 Crop Production

report.

USDA forecasts that 64.5 million tons of alfalfa and alfalfa-mixed hay will be produced this year. That's an increase of 12% over 2013’s 57.6 million tons and 1% higher than what USDA predicted in August.

Favorable growing conditions, along with a boost in total harvested alfalfa acreage, will bring about that record harvest, USDA officials say. Good moisture and cooler-than-average temperatures have dominated much of the U.S. this season.

Based on October 1 conditions, alfalfa yield will average 3.55 tons per acre, up about a third of a ton per acre from last year’s average. Alfalfa harvested area is expected to total 18.2 million acres this year, up from 17.8 million acres in 2013 or an increase of 2%. Arizona, Nebraska and Utah should expect record-high alfalfa yields in 2014, the report states.

Alfalfa production could reach record levels this year, according to USDA’s Oct. 10 Crop Production report.

USDA forecasts that 64.5 million tons of alfalfa and alfalfa-mixed hay will be produced this year. That's an increase of 12% over 2013’s 57.6 million tons and 1% higher than what USDA predicted in August.

Favorable growing conditions, along with a boost in total harvested alfalfa acreage, will bring about that record harvest, USDA officials say. Good moisture and cooler-

than-average temperatures have dominated much of the U.S. this season.

Based on October 1 conditions, alfalfa yield will average 3.55 tons per acre, up about a third of a ton per acre from last year’s average. Alfalfa harvested area is expected to total 18.2 million acres this year, up from 17.8 million acres in 2013 or an increase of 2%. Arizona, Nebraska and Utah should expect record-high alfalfa yields in 2014, the report states.

Record YearU.S. Alfalfa Production On Schedulefor

A 12% increase over lastyear’s yield is forecast

30 | ACRES

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BUCKEYE, AZ26403 W. Highway 85Buckeye, AZ 85326623-925-3020

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AGRICULTUREPO Box 2985Phoenix, AZ 85062-2985

Frank MerryAccount Manager520-251-2792

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CASA GRANDE, AZ8901 W. Highway 287Casa Grande, AZ 85194520-374-3500

Jeremy MannAccount Manager928-941-7997

Tim WilliamsProduct Support Rep928-581-3985

YUMA, AZ3885 E. Gila Ridge Rd.Yuma, AZ 85365928-317-7800

Waymen DekensAccount Manager760-964-1408

Gideon "Scooter" JohnsonProduct Support Rep760-455-5511

BLYTHE, CA190 South Intake BoulevardBlythe, CA 92225760-921-9500

Rick FindleyProduct Support Rep928-899-6137

SAFFORD, AZ444 W. Old Country Club RoadSafford, AZ 85546928-387-8700

Phil MelvinAccount Manager760-455-1579

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