1. Precision AG in Hay Production
By: Jared Yost

2. History Hay production started in the early 1800’s
They cut hay by hand using sickles
Not until the 1860’s, reapers and binders where being developed

3. Stationary balers came out to farmers in the early 1870’s
In the 1936 the automatic round baler was invented
Both square baler and round baler were used in most areas by the 1940’s

4. Objectives in Hay Production
Increase productivity
Reduce fuel cost
Reduce labor cost
Software Equipment
Hardware Equipment

5. RFID Radio Frequency Identification Device Date Time Moisture content
Weight
Producer uses hand-held scanners to to read tags that are attached the bale

6. Trimble started in 2010 with ThingMagic Suppliers
AGCO
New Holland
Case IH

7. Small Square Balers Bale Baron Bale Bandit http://youtu.be/RSR8iHrr3TU

8. Bale Bandit Metal Bands cost $1.26 per bundle of 21 bales
Can handle 21 to 18 bale bundles, with length being from 37” to 42’’
Small bales bring a higher price per ton than the big squares or round bales

9. Bale Baron Plastic Twine 25.00 for a 9000 ft roll = .016 per bundle
Also weaker than metal bands
Smart Solve - Computer Control System
The Smart/Solve system runs using a PLC that constantly monitors and warns the operator when needed.

11. W. R. Long Grapalator Handles from 1 to 10 bales.
Will work with bales from 34" to 42" long.
The Grapalator weight is 780 lbs.
Rails can be removed and be stored on unit.

12. Problems
Metal bands can break if the ground isn’t smooth with the Bale Bandit
Sometimes wont keep the bundle tight
Cost more for short term use
Have to bale many acres to pay off
Have to have a skid steer for the Grapalator

13. Cost Hire out .85 cents/bale using a Hay Wagon
Cost: 5000 bale x .85/ bale = $4250
Revenue: $8/bale x 5000 bale = $40,000
Profit: Immediately
Takes more time
Need workers

14. Small Square Bundles (7x3)
Cost: Bale Bandit = $50,000 New
Bale Baron = $53,000 New
Grappler = $5,500 New
Skidsteer = $15,000 to $45,000
Revenue: $120/bundle x 238 bundles = $40,000
Note: $300 for metal banding
Profit: 1 or 2 years, but save time and requires no help

16. Questions?