Farm Equipment Sales on the Rise
Makers of big iron have reason to smile, according to the latest numbers from a university survey.
RMI, the Rural Mainstreet Index is an index to gauge the pulse of the rural economy by focusing on 11 regional states with 200 rural communities with an average population of 1,300 people. It was created by Creighton University economist Ernie Goss.
Update on E12 and E15
Update on E12 and E15
Agriculture Groups Push for E12
The American Coalition for Ethanol, National Corn Growers Association and the Renewable Fuels Association asked U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson to approve the use of E12, Cattle Network in Lenexa, Kan. , said, as the industry bumps up against the blend wall waiting for pending EPA approval of E15.
Mecum Announces Gone Farmin’ Vintage Tractor Auction
For more than 20 years, Mecum Auctions has specialized in the sale of classic, muscle and high-end collector cars, providing automotive enthusiasts with an exciting environment to buy and sell vehicles. Now, the auction experts are bringing the Mecum experience to the tractor world with their first-ever Gone Farmin’ Tractor Auction, Aug. 7, 2010, in Walworth, Wis.
Mecum’s Gone Farmin’ Auction will offer more than 200 vintage tractors up for sale, including a rare 1954 Farmall Super Mdv Ta Tractor (Lot S44) that is one of 64 Super MTA high crop tractors built. Of those 64 built, this Farmall is one of less than 20 that came with a diesel engine.
“Antique tractors have become valuable investment pieces and we are excited to bring a variety of sought-after tractors to one central location for collectors to inspect, enjoy and purchase,” said Dan Mecum, operations manager for Mecum Auctions. “Attendees can expect to see everything from a 1960 John Deere Veggie Special to International, Allis Chalmers and Case tractors go up for bid.”
A second generation member of the company, Dan has a personal interest in restoring antique tractors and is leading Mecum’s tractor auction. His father, Dana Mecum, started The Mecum Auction Company in 1988 in Rockford, Ill.
The Gone Farmin’ Vintage Tractor Auction takes place on a 10-acre property off Highway 14 near Lake Geneva and is open to the general public at no cost. Mecum is currently accepting consignments and bidder registration for the event. For more information, email tractors@mecum.com. Consignment, bidder and event information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.
Schedule:
Gone Farmin’ Tractor Auction
August 7, 2010
445 S. Main St. (Route 14)
Walworth, WI 53184
Preview: Friday 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Auction: Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
See more Auction Events in the Iron Memories Antique Tractor Auction Page
Equipment Thieves Costs Farmers Billions
Equipment thieves costs farmers billions. Even if you can’t stop them from stealing, you can at least slow them down. Here’s how.
Prevent equipment theft by following these tips:
· Mark it!! Mark your equipment, use an identification system approved by law enforcement, go to www.agcrime.net to learn more.
· Put identifying numbers in two spots: hidden and obvious.
· For machinery with cabs, paint the last six digits of the product identification Number (PIN) on the roof.
· Record it!! Keep records. Record serial number and number you applied.
Take color photos.
Talking Tractors ?
New Telemetry Systems Will Save Labor, Money
Your farm equipment is already pretty smart. It can turn spray nozzles or planter clutches on and off automatically. It can tell you how much it is harvesting. It can even steer itself. Now it is learning to use a cell phone to talk to your office computer.
Mind Your Manners and Your Mouth
I received an e-mail from an individual who felt insulted while attending their local county fair this weekend. While admiring the antique tractors her family witnessed three antique tractor enthusiasts verbally expressing themselves inappropriately.
I realize it has become more common for individuals to engage in rough and vulgar language in public. That does not make it right, especially when you are representing your club, organization, or employer. You’re speaking for your club or group, whether you realize it or not, making each member guilty by association.
E15 Decision
E15 Decision put off Until Fall
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will wait until September to issue a ruling on a requested move to E15.
EPA was expected to make a decision midway through 2010.
EPA said that initial vehicle tests "look good" and should be completed by September. A decision is expected to be made after the U.S. Department of Energy completes testing on vehicles built after 2007.
Iron Memories Daily Quote
You will find, as you look back on your life, that the moments that stand out are the moments when you have done things for others.



