At AgRally ’25 new “weave” automation for select round balers that helps streamline the baling process was highlighted by Kaylene Ballesteros, John Deere go-to-market manager. “With this automation, the operator simply places the windrow between the front tires of the tractor and lets the baler do the work,” said Ballesteros.
The addition of weave automation allows less reliance on the operator skill to make a uniformed bale. “Gone are the days where operators must weave a tractor during the baling process to ensure quality bale shape while not driving over windrows,” noted Ballesteros. “Weave automation allows the baler to align with the tractor’s movements to effectively cover windrows of varying shapes and sizes.”
The weaving hitch system allows a +38-degree swing from left to right, allowing for enhanced feed system and bale feeding capabilities. Not only does the automation make operation more streamlined, it also enhances feed quality by minimizing contamination of debris introduced by driving over windrows.
Ballesteros also announced a special AgRally discount for ranchers and farmers across the U.S. Now through April 30, 2025: 10% off cash purchase on select models or 0% financing for 60 months on John Deere 1 Series Round Balers. Terms and conditions apply. Details can be found at https://JohnDeere.com/roundbalers.
Kyle Berry, John Deere Precision Marketing Manager, explained their newly introduced Precision Essentials, a new precision hardware kit that reduces upfront costs making advanced precision technologies available regardless of farm size, crop or livestock focus.
“The Precision Essentials kit not only allows for machine automation to be executed with the latest John Deere hardware and software, but also provides customers the opportunity to manage their entire farm in one place with the John Deere Operations Center,“ noted Berry. “Farmers can now retrofit legacy John Deere equipment and mixed fleets with the necessary technology to accomplish gains in productivity from insights into their operation, making it easier to manage their farm.”
“Customers of all sectors can start with this Precision Essentials kit and, as their needs expand or diversify, they seamlessly can integrate with more advanced precision ag technologies,” Berry said. “This scalability ensures the initial investment continues to provide value, supporting long-term goals, such as expanding acreage, enhancing crop diversity or integrating advanced systems.”
The Precision Essentials kit is a good solution for farmers and ranchers who have multiple brands of equipment. To help integrate the machines so precision ag technology can be utilized, they can visit their local John Deere dealer for all available options.
EDITOR’S TAKE:
John Deere has been solidly behind AgRally from the very beginning. As the title sponsor, they always have great new and innovative ideas to share with the audience and this year was no different. Both the weave baler technology and the Precision Essentials Kit are designed to help farmers/ranchers improve efficiency and productivity. As the saying goes, “time is money”, and both of these innovations help the user gain more time as well as money. Be sure to let your farm/ranch customers know about AgRally 2026 coming next March so they can join in the celebration. And your dealership might want to host a special event next year during that time to highlight your special connection to agriculture.
