Small farms…we’re going to take them to the next level.
Okay…if you have been investing in modern tractor technology for the past few years then small farms have already been taken to the next level. But for farms that haven’t yet upgraded their tractor technology, there’s still plenty of time!
Between GPS guidance systems, autosteering, telematics, electric tractors, and more…farmers are gaining access to technology that used to be the exclusive domain of large commercial farms.
These modern tractor technologies are also becoming more affordable each year.
Table of Contents
- Why You Need Precision Agriculture for Small Farms
- Game-Changing Technologies You Can Access Today
- Precision Agriculture Practices Can Help Increase Profit Margins
- The Best Equipment for Your Farm
Why You Need Precision Agriculture for Small Farms
Okay…slow your roll for a second.
Small farms represent over 85% of all farms in the United States. However, small farms haven’t been taking advantage of precision agriculture like their commercial counterparts.
In fact, the GAO issued a recent report stating that in 2023 only 27% of farms utilized precision agriculture practices. That means there is a ton of room for growth when it comes to small farms and precision agriculture.
Think about how precision agriculture technology and practices could help your farm operate more efficiently and effectively.
Modern tractor technology allows farmers to reduce waste, save on fuel, and get more done with less. When you’re running a small farm keeping margins as high as possible is essential. That’s where precision agriculture can help you save money and improve your bottom line.
The global agricultural tractor market size is expected to reach $74 billion by 2030 growing at a 8.4% CAGR. A lot of this growth can be attributed to compact tractor sales. Compact tractors are perfect for small farmers needing 40-99 horsepower.
Make sure you’re visiting the right agricultural equipment dealership when you’re ready to explore your tractor options. Farmers who want to shop Case IH and Kubota equipment in Herrin can visit our dealership for friendly staff that knows what small farms need.
Game-Changing Technologies You Can Access Today
There is so much technology inside of modern tractors. It’s hard to even know where to begin.
Let’s run through some of the features that are most impactful for small farms…
GPS Guidance Systems
GPS guidance systems are one of the most beneficial features for small farms. These systems utilize satellite positioning to navigate tractor machinery throughout fields.
The result?
Tractors drive in straighter lines (eliminating overlap) and application equipment places seeds/fertilizer/etc. with precision. There’s less guess work and wasted overlap which means farmers can cover more ground while using less inputs.
GPS guidance systems have been shown to reduce overlap by up to 15%.
Autosteer Technology
Autosteer is like GPS guidance on steroids.
Not only can your tractor navigate precise rows, but the autosteer technology can actually control the steering wheel. Farmers can sit back and monitor their equipment instead of working to keep their tractor within the rows.
Imagine driving a straight line all day long. It’s exhausting. While you’d think that may not be a big deal, operator fatigue is a real thing. Autosteer technology allows farmers to drive for longer periods without getting tired.
Telematics & Data Analytics
Tractors these days are essentially mobile computers.
Telematics technology allows data collected by your tractor to be sent to your smartphone or computer. Think information like fuel usage, engine performance levels, field conditions, etc.
Farmers can then use this data to:
- Track maintenance before it becomes an issue
- Analyze fuel efficiency for various tasks
- Identify underperforming areas of fields
- Determine how to best utilize equipment
Access to this type of data allows farmers to make smart decisions that will increase the efficiency of their operations.
Electric and Hybrid Technology
Speaking of new tractor technology, did you know that the industry is starting to shift to electric & hybrid models?
Electric powered tractors offer the potential for lower operating costs and zero emissions. There are several electric and hybrid models on the market but many of them are designed for smaller horsepower needs.
We’re already seeing electric tractors become more commonly used with specialty crops and in controlled environments where emissions are a concern. As the battery technology improves you can expect more electric tractors to make their way into the market.
Precision Agriculture Practices Can Help Increase Profit Margins
Want to hear something crazy?
Precision agriculture practices actually pay for themselves.
I know, I was shocked too when I first started digging into precision agriculture. Let’s take a look at how precision agriculture increases farmer’s profit margins.
Save on Inputs
Variable rate technology allows your tractor to apply the correct amount of inputs (fertilizer, herbicide, seed, etc.) where they’re needed. Instead of spreading these inputs uniformly across your fields you can use less and spend less money.
Farmers have even told us they’ve seen input cost savings of up to 15% by using precision application technology.
Reduce Labor
Let’s not forget about all the cool technology that allows one farmer to do the work of multiple farmers. Autosteer technology allows farmers to drive for longer periods without getting tired.
GPS monitoring also eliminates the need for farmers to spend their time making corrections when their tractor drifts out of the row.
When you’re running a small farm every employee (even if that’s you) counts. Modern tractor technology allows you to achieve more with less hands on deck.
Improve Yield
Did you know that precision planting technology ensures seeds are planted exactly where they need to be at the right depth and spacing every time?
If seeds are placed correctly in fertile ground this will lead to better germination rates. Better germination means better yields, and when you run a small farm every little bit helps.
The Best Equipment for Your Farm
When it comes to tractors, smaller doesn’t always mean better. But in most cases when farming on a smaller scale, you won’t need a heavy-duty tractor.
If you’re wondering what size tractor is best for your farm, we’ll give you a general range… 40-99 horsepower.
That being said, here are some things to consider when looking for the perfect tractor for your farm.
What implements will you need to run?
What is your acreage? Where are you located? What precision agriculture features are most valuable to your farm?
These are all questions you should be asking yourself and your local agricultural equipment dealer. Dealing with knowledgeable staff that understand your land can ensure you get the most value out of your new tractor.
Whether you purchase or lease, there are financing options and possibly government programs that can help you access precision agriculture technology.
Wrap Up
Small scale farmers can benefit just as much from modern tractor technology as large commercial farms.
Everything from GPS guidance systems to data telematics were once cost-prohibitive for the small farm industry. But as technology advances, those features are becoming more and more affordable.
Small farms that invest in modern tractor technology will have a better farm than those who don’t.
Modern tractor technology allows farmers to save money on inputs, reduce wasted labor, and improve yield. If you’re ready to stop letting your farm operate under the capabilities of its equipment… start researching your tractor options today.
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