Live.Work.Grow. - Volume 3, Issue 2 - Central Illinois Ag

Live.Work.Grow.

Volume 3 Issue 2

ATLANTA 路 CLINTON 路 FARMER CITY 路 MASON CITY www.centralilag.com 路 Volume 3, Issue 2

1

Live.Work.Grow.

4 Michael Schmidt, President 5 Chad Colby, General Manager

7 High-Efficiency Farming 9 Liquid Monitoring & Control 11 High Speed, High Performance

Volume 3, Issue 2

13 Pursuing the Dream 14 Flying Ag | Deeply Rooted in Ag 20 More Time, Less Grain Loss 19 Sales Team 20 Inventory 24 Low Sidewall Technology (LSW) 25 Family & Farming 27 An X-Tended Reach

29 Minimize Loss, Maximize Profit 31 Illinois Ag in the Classroom 32 Your Soybean Checkoff in Action

34 The Pro’s Know: Tim Clark Concrete 38 Employee Spotlight

Steve Schmidt Michael Schmidt Brian Reeser Tim Evans Chad Colby Abby Coers

Chief Executive Officer President Vice President Chief Financial Officer General Manager Marketing Coordinator

A note from abby marketing coordinator, central Illinois ag This year we have been introduced to many new products and exciting technology advances within the agriculture industry; I am excited to share these approaches with you in this issue. Thank you to the many farmers and customers who have helped make our magazine possible.

As alway, be sure to connect with Central Illinois Ag online and through our re-designed website by clicking on the “Our Story” tab at the top of the page.

Abby Coers

Have an article suggestion or would like to advertise?

Contact Abby at (217) 648-2307 or acoers@centralilag.com

m 1 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

When you measure your property in acres, you need a mower that’s up to the job. Toro® Z Master ® zero-turn mowers give you commercial-grade durability, a flawless cut and an exceptionally comfortable ride. They’re also easy to maneuver around trees and landscaping, so you can finish the job in less time. Toro Z Master mowers handle even the toughest conditions with the same reliable performance season after season. They’re one investment that stands the test of time.

| TORO.COM/DEALER AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL TORO DEALER www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2 © 2017 The Toro Company

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BE READY.

BE READY.

THERE ARE SIX DIFFERENT LEADERS IN PERFORMANCE. THERE ARE SIX DIFFERENT LEADERS IN PERFORMANCE. ®

AND THEY’RE ALL NAMED STEIGER. AND THEY’RE ALL NAMED STEIGER. ®

From 350 to 600hp, Case IH Steiger ® series tractors come in six different models to give ® From to 600hp, IH Steiger series tractorsReduction come in six different models to give you the right350 power for yourCase operation.

Selective Catalytic (SCR) technology ® you the right power for your operation.

Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology allows the engine to generate more power with less fuel. Both wheeled and Quadtrac ® allows the engine to designed generate to more power compaction with less fuel. wheeled and Add Quadtrac options are agronomically minimize forBoth maximum yields. to ™ options are agronomically designed to minimize compaction for maximum yields. which delivers full autoguidance in both forward and reverse, plusAdd to that AFS AccuGuide ™ which delivers autoguidance in both forward that suspension AFS AccuGuide a full-cab for total comfort, andfull you’ll find a tractor optimized for and yourreverse, farm. plus ® a full-cab suspension for total comfort, and you’ll find a tractor optimized for your farm.

Learn more about Steiger series tractors by visiting your Case IH dealer or go to caseih.com.

Learn more about Steiger series tractors by visiting your Case IH dealer or go to caseih.com.

HERE ARE SIX DIFFERENT LEADERS IN PERFORMANCE.

ND THEY’RE ALL NAMED STEIGER. THERE ARE SIX DIFFERENT LEADERS IN PERFORMANCE.

AND THEY’RE ALL NAMED STEIGER.

m 350 to 600hp, Case IH Steiger ® series tractors come in six different models to give ® the right power for your operation. Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology ws the engine to generate more power with less fuel. Both wheeled and Quadtrac® ® ons are agronomically to minimize compaction maximum yields. to From 350 todesigned 600hp, Case IH Steiger seriesfor tractors come in sixAdd different models to give ™ AFS AccuGuide whichpower delivers in both forward and Reduction reverse, plus you the right for full yourautoguidance operation. Selective Catalytic (SCR) technology l-cab suspension forengine total comfort, and you’ll a tractor optimized for your farm. and Quadtrac® allows the to generate morefind power with less fuel. Both wheeled n more about Steiger series tractors by visiting your Case IH dealer or go to caseih.com. options are agronomically designed to minimize compaction for maximum yields. Add to

SEE US TODAY. SEE US TODAY.

CENTRAL ILLINOIS AG CENTRAL ILLINOIS AG

that AFS AccuGuide™ which delivers full autoguidance in both forward and reverse, plus 217-648-2307 a full-cab suspension for total comfort, and you’ll find a tractor optimized for your farm.

217-648-2307 Learn more about Steiger series tractors by visiting your Case IH dealer or go to caseih.com. www.centralilag.com

www.centralilag.com

EE US TODAY.

SEE US TODAY.

CENTRAL ILLINOIS AG 217-648-2307 www.centralilag.com

CENTRAL ILLINOIS AG

217-648-2307 m www.centralilag.com 3 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

All rights reserved. Case IH is a registered trademark of CNH America LLC. All rights reserved. Case IH is a registered trademark of CNH America LLC.

michael schmidt

@MPSchmidtAg

President, Central Illinois Ag

A

s we continually improve Central Illinois Ag, you may notice some subtle changes. One of the priorities we focus on is getting back to the basics. What I mean by that is we are still a family run business with a vision and goals to cater toward you, our customers.

learned from his father, Tim Reeser, and Tim Evans who followed in his father, Dave Evans, footsteps. It’s all about the fundamentals - having a very personal connection from our business to your operation.

Since 1898, we have been a family business. A lot of Personally, I enjoy working directly with growers. It’s other businesses have a corporate feel but ours is still not uncommon to find me in the field during planting very much a family. and harvest with my tools, working alongside a farmer.

Bringing in our General Manager, Chad Colby, has Michael Schmidt allowed me the time to understand the issues and Contact Michael at mschmidt@centralilag.com advances with a hands-on approach.

Something that has always made Central Illinois Ag stand out among other dealers is that our salesman don’t just sell. We spend time getting to know our growers, building a relationship, and truly caring for the family farm that we provide equipment. I have spent a lot of time in the tractor and combine cabs helping growers optimize efficiency using our equipment from Central Illinois Ag. As our business evolves I look forward to continuing that role. It helps to better understand our customer and our machinery.

We are focusing now more than ever on training our entire team at Central Illinois Ag, no matter the department, to better understand the farmers needs.

At a young age I learned how to care for customers and understand what is important from my dad, Steve Schmidt, and my dad learned from my grandpa, Richard Schmidt. The same goes for Brian Reeser who

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

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Chad Colby

General Manager, Central Illinois Ag

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t’s so exciting to be a part of one of the oldest implement dealerships in the country. Businesses are always evolving, and 2017 will mark the 119th year of Central Illinois Ag. Without question, our employees have been the key to our success. As you may notice, we have been making changes to our operation and I am happy to tell you those changes have one thing in mind: putting our customers first.

@TheChadColby Farmers love technology and so do we. In this edition of Live.Work.Grow. there is a lot of new technology. Be sure to check out the Geringhoff draper head, the high efficiency farming article with the Case IH high speed planter, Titan Goodyear Low Sidewall (LSW) tires, and Takeuchi’s new TL12V2.

We love sharing the latest information from Central Illinois Ag. Be sure to follow us on our social media My experience has taught me that service is a leading platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and factor in any dealership. We are continually improving our new re-designed website...all which are open 24/7. our shop to bring you the best, most reliable service department. We know it’s about great communication, Thank you, growers, for all you do! timely service, and the positive attitude from our shop Chad Colby to your farm.

Contact Chad at ccolby@centralilag.com Attention to detail is very important. You can’t overlook the small issues because those will become the big problems. As we look into the next five years of what it takes to support our customers, our goal is to have one of the top parts and service departments in the country.

To do that, it will require us to understand our customers’ needs more than ever. We will utilize all the existing and future technology to do so, such as Case IH’s new AFS Connect. Telematics is going to be a game changer providing nearly real time information from a farmers’ machine that can help the technician know what needs to be fixed before arriving at the farm.

Agriculture has witnessed over the last 10-15 years an influx of great technology from simple auto-steer to the complex technology in our planters. We have all come a long way in a very short time. Just remember our iPads have only been around since 2010.

m 5 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

farm on | Keep the legacy alive The Logan County Farm Bureau Young Leaders have been working on a program aimed at a potential issue in Logan County.

Area farmers are the life blood of our local economy. They pump large amounts of funds into our economy and provide multiple jobs that trickle through our entire community. Equipment dealers, mechanics, welders, feed mill employees, elevator employees, seed dealers, seed packagers, cob plant employees, fertilizer retailers, veterinarians, tax and accounting services, banks, auto dealers, and even businesses such as local restaurants are impacted by farmers.

A growing concern is the age of the farming community. The 2011 Annual Bulletin states the average age of the Illinois farmer is 56.2.

This number has been on a steady incline over the last 75 years.

Across the country there has been a 30% increase of farmers over the age of 75 and a 20% decrease in the number of farmers under the age of 25.(Source www.start2farm.gov.) These numbers are staggering and cause for concern. This brings us to the question of what happens when a farmer retires. In the past, the farm was typically passed to a family member to take over.

County Farm Bureau office. The applicants may or may not already be farming, but they all have a desire to farm. Each applicant has demonstrated their sincere interest by submitting a $50.00 application fee. Local producers who may be considering retirement are encouraged to come in and view the applications. If the retiring farmer finds someone they feel is a good “match” the program would bring them together to see if there is potential for a future transition.

The goal of the program is to ensure that production agriculture continues to thrive in Logan County and surrounding communities. It opens the door of opportunity to young aspiring farmers while providing retiring farmers a new option for the future of their farm.

If you would like to start farming or if you are considering an exit strategy from farming please contact the Logan County Farm Bureau office today at (217) 732-7326 and ask about “Farm ON”. All calls will be kept confidential.

While this still happens on a regular basis today, more and more frequently there is not someone of the next generation ready to take on the responsibility of the farm. Many times the assets are sold on auction and the farmland is either rented to a neighbor or often times rented or sold to the highest bidder.

To combat this dissolution of the midsize family farm the Logan County Farm Bureau Young Leader group has delivered a program called “Farm On”.

The idea of the Farm On program is to inform retiring farmers about some local young men and women who have interest in production agriculture. The hope is that one of these young people could be a potential suitor for the transition of the operation in question. This transition could consist of anything from a one-time buyout to a partnership that evolves over time. They’ve created a database with applications submitted by these aspiring young farmers.

Their information has been collected and compiled at the Logan

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

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welcome to high-efficiency farming

Written by Case IH t’s that time of year. Time to give your operation the once-over. Time to reexamine the way you farm and to look for changes — no matter how small — that can improve production. It’s time to break the status quo and shatter assumptions. It’s time for High-Efficiency Farming.

I

Only through Case IH Agronomic Design™ will you find equipment designed with the agronomic focus necessary to help you maximize yield potential. No phase of production functions independent of the others.

We’re studying these relationships. Our goal is to deliver results that help demonstrate how small improvements make a difference. For example, in our first highToday, perhaps more than ever, each seed you put in efficiency plots, we are researching the optimal seedbed the ground is a factor in your success. Every phase of finish for maximum planter productivity under various crop production is an interrelated system, and every field conditions. Because where these elements come bean pod, corn ear or wheat head depends on how well together, you’ll find Case IH High-Efficiency Farming. these relationships work together. If you think seed-byseed precision isn’t possible or isn’t practical, it’s time to Creating a High-efficiency Seedbed think again. It’s time to Rethink Productivity.

Seedbed conditions — a core principle of Case IH Agronomic Design — affect germination, plant Small improvements can yield big dividends. Consider development and, ultimately, yield potential. When you how a better fall tillage regime might save a trip pull your planter through the gate, you expect a field that across the field come spring. Or how more efficient looks ready to plant — a field with a smooth, consistent horsepower across even just a few hundred acres can cut soil surface. But the ideal seedbed reaches much deeper. fuel expenses. High-Efficiency Farming encompasses every aspect of your operation. From managing inputs Clear some soil. Dig down to the subsurface floor. It’s to maximizing outputs and from breaking through the where your planter places the seed, and you want it to status quo to shattering long-held assumptions, High- be even more level, smooth and consistent than the field Efficiency Farming is about making the most of your surface. You also want moisture throughout the seedbed season, soil and equipment. depth, plus soil that is well-mixed, providing the right soil-air-water balance and reliable incorporation. This high-efficiency seedbed is a perfect environment where plants germinate quickly and emerge uniformly.

m 77 ·· Central Central Illinois Illinois Ag Ag ·· www.centralilag.com www.centralilag.com

Planting — At Your Speed The Case IH Early Riser planter built a reputation on fast, uniform emergence and higher yields. The new 2000 series Early Riser planter continues this legacy — at your speed, for your individual conditions.

Not every field is postcard perfect or suited for planting at 10 miles per hour. High-efficiency planting is about more than ground speed. It’s about the ability to achieve consistent, fast, uniform emergence, whether you’re running at 4 mph or 10 mph, planting into sandy loam or heavy clay soils, or if your fields are tabletop-flat, 640-acre sections or rolling contoured uplands.

Each spring, you get only a handful of ideal planting days. Reduced maintenance and tool-free adjustments with the 2000 series Early Riser planters help you head to the field quicker and cover more acres. Once in the field, our industry-leading Early Riser row unit delivers precision and performance. The unit is high-speed capable with high accuracy. Customize the row unit with the technology you choose, including Advanced Seed Delivery™ and DeltaForce™ hydraulic downforce, to create the planter that best sets up your crop for success. And then automatic and in-cab adjustments help you easily set your Early Riser to capitalize on the high-efficiency seedbed.

Breaking Assumptions: Find Your Reality At the Case IH high-efficiency plots near Goodfield, Illinois, we’re testing the productivity advancements between the new Tiger-Mate® 255 and the 2000 series Early Riser® planter. By challenging commonly held assumptions, our goal is to help you rethink the environment in which you place each seed.

Bringing reality to the surface Assumption: You can judge a seedbed by its surface.

Reality: A level seedbed floor improves planting accuracy and efficiency.

Assumption: Planting success is measured by perfect spacing.

Reality: Fast, uniform emergence is a more critical measure of planting success.

Assumption: High-speed planting means greater productivity.

Reality: It’s not about how fast you plant, but how consistently you plant well.

Visit caseih.com/seedbed to see the complete list of assumptions to break for a high-efficiency seedbed environment — plus informative videos. *Article from the Case IH Fall 2016 Farm Show Newspaper.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

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liquid monitoring & control

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n 2008, the first 20/20 SeedSense monitors from Precision Planting hit the field in planting cabs all across the corn belt and eastern United States. For the first time in planting history, growers were able to not just monitor whether or not their seed boxes were emptying through the seed tubes, but they were able to quantify the precise flow of each and every seed in real time.

At Precision Planting’s January 2016, winter conference their engineering team showed the world that they were at it again. The new frontier? Liquid monitoring and control, with a familiar 20/20 SeedSense feel. Engineer’s Justin McMenamy and Jason Stoller showed the concept of new innovations in liquid technology that would hit the field in the near future.

Singulation became the term for the percentage of time that a “It begins again with measurement,” states Huber. seed was being released as a single kernel from every finger on a mechanical meter or from every hole on a vacuum meter, without any skips or doubles. If the field was clody, perhaps worked wet or the field was worked too shallow, creating ridges in the subsoil environment, the grower could see that his row units had a “rough ride,” and that the precise spacing between seeds was being degraded. Perhaps most importantly, a strain gauge called a “smart pin,” was monitoring the amount of weight that was being carried on the planter’s gauge wheels.

This information opened the eyes of the farming community to a new level of precise planter management based off of measurements that had never been taken before and allowed growers to understand that if their planters metering system was not performing at a new benchmark of 98.5% on a finger meter or 99%+ on a vacuum meter that adjustments could be made or different components could be added to the planter to aim for a perfect, picket fence stand.

Monitoring spacing gave growers a way to see when their planter’s drive systems needed maintenance attention or how their speed effected the good ride of the row unit as they sped up or slowed down.

“The 20/20 became the grower’s gas pedal,” said Eric, “sometimes growers confirmed that they were planting too fast and were losing performance, while others found out that they actually needed to speed up to optimize their meters performance.”

Weigh pins led to new innovations in down pressure technology that would revolutionize the way that growers understood correct planting depth and potential compaction issues.

FlowSense™ FlowSense™, is a simple push-to-connect flow meter that inserts right into a grower’s 3/8” or 1/4” liquid application line, and plugs into their single row module on the planter row unit. This information is then displayed in the planter cab via the Climate FieldView™ app.

This information can begin to show a grower exactly how much product is being delivered to each row. Think about a planter that is singulating seeds at 99.5% accuracy, spacing at 97% accuracy and has the right downforce foot print. One of the next challenges that we see that that growers that are applying N-P-K and other micros through a planter, strip-till or side dress application may have 20 25% row-to-row variability from the target rate set by their pump.

Let’s say that a grower is targeting 30 units of N through a 2x2 system. 20% row to row variation says that row 6 could be hitting the right target of 30 units while row 5 is under applying at 24 units and 7 is over applying at 36 units. This creates a situation in which some plants are not receiving the right amount of fertility and others are getting more than is needed. This shows that there is a benefit to controlling these systems more precisely.

m 9 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

vApply HD™ More precisely you say? Enter vApply HD™. vApply HD™ is a new liquid control system that will become available with Flow Sense in limited quantities in early December. This system is the first on the market to combine measurement and control of liquid product through a single, row-by-row module.

FurrowJet™ places a liquid band on both sides of the seed 1/2” above it and 3/4” to the right and left. This band targets the early crown roots. The orifice in the middle of the wings allows the grower to select an in-furrow rate as well. The result is a tri-band placement of product at a higher and safer rate to make sure that the plant is never starved for critical, early nutrients, especially phosphorous.

“If the grower can get enough pressure to the row, vApply HD™ does the rest,” Eric explained.

The grower can use their existing, centrifugal, diaphragm, or piston pump to generate flow to a 50 mesh filter, and a prescribed set of liquid lines to each row’s module and it does the rest. The team has tested the capability of this system to apply as little as 3 gal of product to the acre at 3 mph all the way up to 60 gal to the acre at 10 mph. This is a 60x rate change with no orifice changes necessary!

The system also acts to balance each row, avoiding any row-to-row variation, acts as swath control and corrects for proper flow around curves. This truly is the simplest and most advanced liquid control on the planter market and there are visions of other liquid passes to utilize this system.

FurrowJet™ The third product that will enter the field in limited production quantity is our new application tool called FurrowJet™. The beauty of the tool is its simplicity and accuracy of placement.

FurrowJet™ fits within the existing space claim of the row unit between the seedtube and the closing system. This means that the row unit is not any longer than normal and that the seed furrow is not subject to caving prior to closing as it may with other attachments. The most impactful benefits however, come through its precise placement and higher rate capabilities with less costly commercial fertilizers.

As always a grower will have to know their soils and the risk of starter burn. However, by splitting the rate on both sides of the plant a grower could take for example a 7.5 gallon application of 10-34-0 that would normally go on one side of the seed and place it on both sides. This would bring the total amount up to 15 gallons plus a possible in-furrow placement through the center.

We are excited for this new frontier and see lots of opportunity for the 20/20 SeedSense and it’s companion products to move into other passes to provide the same kind of measurement and control accuracy that maximize bushels and control input costs as effectively as possible.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

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high speed, high performance

P

roduction agriculture is continually changing. With that, new and innovative practices are performed by new machines. Tillage is being geared toward handling heavier residue and to provide efficiency. The new High Speed Landoll (HSL) provides all those benefits.

“I’ve never purchased an Landoll tool before the HSL,” said Troy Duncan of Moweaqua, Illinois, “and I’m very impressed with the job of the 25’ HSL.”

Troy purchased the new tillage tool during Harvest 2016 and tested it out on some untouched corn stalks, comparing it to a vertical tillage tool. His results showed the HSL running at 5 inches deep and did not plug up, resulting in a better performance than the vertical tillage tool.

The blade angle and blade pitch are pre-set for optimum performance during both spring and fall. Depth of operation is simply adjusted through the front mounted adjusting rods that provide adjustment within the 2” to 5” range to fine tune the operating depth to your individual needs.

Troy Duncan transporting the HSL during Harvest 2016.

Central Illinois Ag salesman, Andrew Elder, recommended the HSL to Troy due to the performance, speed, and robust frame.

“When I heard the digging depth and trash reduction for the HSL, I immediately knew this tool was perfect for Troy,” said Andrew.

“I like the narrow transport, high acre/hour tillage rate (30 ac/hr), and the really good job of tilling the top few Troy trusts Andrew and Central Illinois Ag because of inches of soil and trash - leaving about 20% trash on the relationships formed and quality of service received. top,” said Troy.

Additional features of the HSL include the hydraulically controlled reels, front mounted depth adjustment, torsion mounted disc mount, and several additional benefits to help you and your operation dig deep into the soil. On top of all that, the HSL operates at a speed of 10 mph!

“Andrew (Elder) Brice (Hennings), and everyone at the Clinton Central Illinois Ag have been great to work with. Besides being a salesman, Andrew has also helped get service jobs done quickly.”

-Troy Duncan

m 11 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

High Speed Residue Management

...The Company Who Knows You Best The High Speed Landoll (HSL) can easily handle today’s high levels of residue with features that leave the competition behind. The HSL is able to cut and size residue, bury a specific amount of residue, be tough and robust to work through rocky and stony conditions without fail and leave the finished field level and smooth enough to plant into all while operating at speeds around 10 MPH. Available in sizes from 13’ through 40’, the HSL features aggressive individually mounted disc blades, overlapping gangs, a floating wing design and heavyduty floatation tires.

7800 Series High Speed Landoll (HSL)

Expect a Perfect Seedbed

Engineered Simplicity

2410/2430 Series Weatherproofer (WP1)

Time is more important in farming today than it’s ever been, and it plays a major role in how good the crop yield will be. The 8530 Finisholl will help producers meet their timeline during the crucial spring and fall planting seasons.

Outstanding quality is designed and manufactured into every part and this keeps it performing without costly delays season-after-season.

Available in seven working widths from 19’ to 48’, the 8530 will increase your return on investment by creating the perfect seedbed and eliminating costly downtime.

www.landoll.com

Manage residue and compaction in a single pass with the Weatherproofer 1 from Landoll.

Available in 6 through 13 shank models, the WP1 features disc gangs on 10 1/2” spacing that quickly resize and mix the toughest residue.

Auto-reset shanks on 24” centers provide much better soil fracture than traditional 30” spacing. This allows you to run at shallower depths at higher speeds, saving on both fuel and labor while leaving an impressively level field.

The WP1 is a true “set it and forget it” type of tool as the entire machine is set with a single adjustment.

8530 Finisholl

www.centralilag.com ·

®

Marysville, Volume 3, IssueKS2 66508 12 785.738.6613

pursuing the dream “It’s interesting,” was the response from Megan Opperman, sixth generation of Opperman Farms, when asked what it is like to be a woman and also a farmer. Her lifestyle and passion has led her to follow in the footsteps of her father and simply pursue what she has always dreamt of: to take over the family farm with her brother, Sam. Megan is a sophomore at Lincoln Land Community College studying Ag Business Management with the intent to earn her bachelors degree at Illinois State University with a focus in Crop and Soil Sciences.

Growing up, Megan enjoyed being outdoors. She was always eager to learn, especially when it came to gardening with her mother, Stephanie.

“After planting the garden with my mom, I would dig the roots back up and look at the germination of the plant,” said Megan.

Gardening continues to be a hobby as she grows most of her own vegetables in the summertime. The small backyard garden led Megan to continue working in the dirt, but now in a much larger area: acres of land.

Megan Opperman working ground during Harvest 2016.

“It’s an honor to work the same ground my ancestors farmed 150 years ago. To work with my family is a true blessing and dream come true.”

-Megan opperman

It was evident from the beginning that agriculture is something Megan took great interest in, and would strive to follow that dream into a career. She currently takes agriculture classes where there is an estimated 50/50 ratio of male to female students, but when it comes down to careers she’s the only female who is planning to farm.

There are a lot of ways to learn the best practices and Megan takes advantage of them all from the classroom, hands-on in the field, and through dealership clinics.

“I am very impressed with the fertility and crop science knowledge Megan has gained through her classes and being in various meetings,” said her father, David Opperman.

When Megan told her dad that she wanted to return to the farm, he was a little shocked and very excited. David supports his daughters’ decision and enjoys teaching her about the farming operation.

During harvest 2016, Megan transitioned into the farm by working ground with the Steiger 500 Quadtrac and Ecolo-Tiger 870 Ripper. This is only the beginning of her dream career to co-manage the family farm.

m 13 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

flying ag | deeply rooted in ag Flying Ag is a technology company deeply rooted in agriculture that is committed to helping farmers and growers improve real-time practices and gain financially by using unmanned aerial systems to monitor crop production in real time.

products to farmers across various price points making aerial imaging a resourceful tool for large and small operations growing a variety of crops.

They stand for relationships with our customers. Flying AG will put together a UAS based on the farmer’s needs, and then back the technology with personalized education and product support.

Flying Ag’s Focus: Flying Ag was launched by a group of successful farmers and growers from across the U.S. who work conscientiously to help other farmers decide what to Now farmers can take advantage of cutting-edge use, who to trust and where to go in this huge space technology in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to of unmanned aerial system (UAS) technology. Their scout crops – saving both time and money. philosophy and mission are to provide an array of

introducing the new phantom 4 pro Flying Ag Phantom 4 Pro Kit Includes: DJI Phantom 4 PRO - NEW Drone Deploy Ready Phantom 4 Safety Guidelines and Disclaimer Manual 2 Total DJI Intelligent LiPo Flight Batteries One DJI Battery Chargers DJI Aluminium Mobile Device Holder 3M High Visibility Custom Wrap Android & iPad Lightning Cable Go Professional Case Extra Heavy Duty 8 Standard DJI Propellers 3.1 Mile Controller Range* Gimbal Stabilized 4K Camera Camera Takes 12MP Still Photos w/ Lexar 16gb Card 720p HD App-Based Monitoring (refer to DJI GO App) Gimbal Control Dials on Transmitter GPS for Enhanced Stability and Failsafe Auto-Takeoff / Auto Return Home Vision Sensor for Indoor Flight

Up to 28 Minutes Flying Time Easy to Fly, Intelligent Flight System, with build in NO-FLY zones.

Flight Modes * Does NOT include Ipad, or any tablet.

Learn more about Flying Ag at FlyingAg.com Learn about the regulations at KnowBeforeYouFly.com Register your UAS at RegisterMyUAS.faa.gov Contact Central Illinois Ag and let us help get you set up with a Phantom 4 Pro!

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

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Kinze Vac Meter: Kinze Vac Meter: Kinze Vac Meter:

Superior Singulation Superior Singulation Superior Singulation Precise Placement Precise Placement Precise Placement Yield maximizing stands start Yield maximizing stands start with seed meter.

Yield maximizing stands with thethe seed meter.

TheThestart Kinze Vac Meter is uniquely with the seedismeter.

The Kinze Vac Meter uniquely designed to prevent skips Kinze Vac Meter isskips uniquely designed to prevent doubles and offer nearly designed to prevent skips andand doubles and offer nearly perfect seed spacing. and doubles and offer nearly perfect seed spacing. perfect seed spacing.

Meters option VacVac Meters areare an an option on on most Kinze planter models VacKinze Meters are anmodels option on most planter from factory or can most Kinze planter models from thethe factory or can be be added to existing planters fromtothe factory or can be added existing planters using ato Kinze Retrofit added existing planters using a Kinze Retrofit Kit.Kit. using a Kinze Retrofit Kit.

DIFFERENCE IS SUPERIOR SINGULATION THETHE DIFFERENCE IS SUPERIOR SINGULATION •THE Superior seed channel design ensures every seed is loaded, preventing skips DIFFERENCE IS SUPERIOR SINGULATION • Superior seed channel design ensures every seed cellcell is loaded, preventing skips • • •

•• Superior Easily-adjustable seed singulator be set different seed sizes multiple seed types seed channel design ensures every seed cell is loaded, preventing skips Easily-adjustable seed singulator cancan be set for for different seed sizes andand multiple seed types • Innovative engineering design ensures better than 99% metering accuracy at speeds up 8 mph* • Easily-adjustable seed singulator can be set for different seed sizes and multiple Innovative engineering design ensures better than 99% metering accuracy at speedsseed up totypes 8tomph* •• Innovative Single corn seed all sizes of corn seed than 99% metering accuracy at speeds up to 8 mph* engineering ensures better Single corn seed discdisc for for alldesign sizes of corn seed • Single corn seed disc for all sizes of corn seed

DIFFERENCE IS PRECISE PLACEMENT THETHE DIFFERENCE IS PRECISE PLACEMENT •THE Elevated release point edge of disc allows precise, unobstructed seed release DIFFERENCE IS PRECISE • Elevated release point on on edge ofPLACEMENT disc allows for for precise, unobstructed seed release • •

•• Consistent point of release eliminates seed bounce in seed tube Elevatedpoint release point oneliminates edge of disc allows for in precise, unobstructed seed release Consistent of release seed bounce seed tube • Disc diameter reduces seed velocity at release point, reducing potential seed bounce in the tube • Consistent of release eliminates seed point, bouncereducing in seed tube Disc diameter point reduces seed velocity at release potential for for seed bounce in the tube • Disc diameter reduces seed velocity at release point, reducing potential for seed bounce in the tube

DIFFERENCE IS SIMPLICITY THETHE DIFFERENCE IS SIMPLICITY •THE Features easy-to-open meter easy-to-change seed DIFFERENCE IS SIMPLICITY • Features easy-to-open meter andand easy-to-change seed discdisc • • • •

•• Only moving parts (seed ejector) during planting operation means wear maintenance Features easy-to-open meter and easy-to-change seed disc operation Only twotwo moving parts (seed discdisc andand ejector) during planting means lessless wear andand maintenance •• Low-friction, anti-static material increases seed disc and performance Only two moving parts (seed disc and ejector) during planting operation means less wear and maintenance Low-friction, anti-static material increases seed disc lifelife and performance • Single singulator eliminates need to change multiple singulators each when switching crops • Low-friction, seed disc life and performance Single singulatoranti-static eliminatesmaterial need toincreases change multiple singulators for for each rowrow unitunit when switching crops •• Seed pool shape promotes 100% seed cleanout Single singulator eliminates need tocleanout change multiple singulators for each row unit when switching crops Seed pool shape promotes 100% seed • Seed pool shape promotes 100% seed cleanout

Kinze.com/VacMeter Kinze.com/VacMeter *Speed and accuracy of the planter may be limited by field conditions, seed type and other variables. *Speed and accuracy of the planter may be limited by field conditions, seed type and other variables.

Kinze.com/VacMeter

E I DF IFFEFREERNECNEC IES I K S I KNIZNEZ E T HTEH D THE DIFFERENCE IS KINZE

m *Speed and accuracy of the planter may be limited by field conditions, seed type and other variables.

15 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

New Yield-Boosting Retrofit New Yield-Boosting Retrofit New Yield-Boosting Retrofit Kits for Your Kinze Planter Kits for Your Kinze Planter Kits for Your Kinze Planter Update your existing Kinze planter with the latest yield and profit boosting technologies. Kinze Planter Retrofit Update your your existing existing Kinze Kinze planter planter with with the latest latest yield yield and and profit boosting boosting technologies. Kinze Kinze Planter Planter Retrofit Retrofit Update Kits help squeeze even more value out ofthe your Kinze planterprofit and extend its technologies. useful life. Add technologies that Kits help help squeeze even more valuewith out of of your Kinze planter and extend extend itstechnologies. useful life. life. Add Add technologies that Update your existing Kinze planter theyour latest yield andrate profit boosting Kinze Retrofit Kits squeeze even more value out Kinze planter and its useful technologies that improve seed depth control and spacing, enable variable planting, reduce seed waste andPlanter improve planting improve seed depth depth control and spacing, spacing, enable variable rate planting, reduce seed waste and improve improvethat planting Kits help squeeze even more value out of your Kinze planter and extend its useful life.

Add technologies improve seed control and enable variable rate planting, reduce seed waste and planting performance even in tough no-till conditions. Kinze Planter Retrofit Kits are a smart investment with a payback performance even in incontrol tough and no-till conditions.

Kinze Planter Retrofit Kitsreduce are a a smart smart investment with a a payback payback improve seed depth spacing, enable variable rateRetrofit seedfor waste improve planting performance even tough no-till conditions.

Kinze Planter are investment with you’ll experience through many planting seasons and when itplanting, comesKits time to trade yourand next Kinze planter. you’ll experience through many planting seasons and when it comes time to trade for your next Kinze planter. performance eventhrough in toughmany no-tillplanting conditions.

Kinzeand Planter Kits areto a smart investment a payback you’ll experience seasons whenRetrofit it comes time trade for your nextwith Kinze planter. you’ll experience through many planting seasons and when it comes time to trade for your next Kinze planter.

MECHANICAL TO TO 4000 4000 SERIES SERIES VAC VAC METER METER OR OR MECHANICAL MECHANICAL TO 4000 SERIES VAC METER OR EDGEVAC (EV) (EV)TOTO TO4000 4000SERIES SERIESVAC VACMETER METERORRETROFIT RETROFIT KIT: KIT: MECHANICAL EDGEVAC 4000 SERIES VAC METER EDGEVAC (EV) TO 4000 SERIES VAC METER RETROFIT KIT: Upgrade to superior singulation and precise placement with the Kinze vac meter. The new vac EDGEVAC TO 4000 SERIESand VAC METER RETROFIT Upgrade to to(EV) superior singulation and precise placement withKIT: the Kinze Kinze vac vac meter. meter. The The new new vac vac Upgrade singulation precise placement the meter offerssuperior a consistent drop position, which results inwith precise seed placement and 99+%

meter offers offers a consistent consistent drop position, position, which results in inwith precise seed placement placement and 99+% Upgrade toeven superior singulation andup precise placement the singulator Kinze vac meter.

The 99+% new vac and meter a drop results precise seed and accuracy, at planting speeds towhich 8 mph*.

The vac meter eliminates doubles accuracy, even at planting speeds up to 8 mph*.

The vac meter singulator eliminates doubles and meter offers a consistent drop position, which results in precise seed placement and 99+% accuracy, even ateasily planting speeds up to 8sizes mph*.

The vac metercrops singulator eliminates can be adjusted for different seed across multiple without having todoubles removeand can be adjusted easily for different seed sizes across multiple crops without having to remove accuracy, even at planting speeds to 8sizes mph*.

The allows vac meter singulator eliminates doubles can be adjusted easily different across multiple without having remove the singulator from thefor meter.

Theupseed Kinze vac meter for crops easy, complete meterto clean out,and the singulator from the meter.

The Kinze vac meter allows for easy, complete meter clean out, can be adjusted easily for different seed sizes across multiple crops without having to remove the singulator from the meter.

Thetwo Kinze vac meter allows for easy, metercosts. cleanThe out, eliminating seed waste.

With only moving parts, the meter hascomplete low ownership eliminating seed waste.

With only only two moving moving parts, the meter meter hascomplete low ownership ownership costs.

The the singulator from the meter.

The Kinze vac meter allows for easy, meter clean out, eliminating seed waste.

With two parts, the has low costs.

The EdgeVac to Vac Meter kit is available on the 3110, 3140, 3200, 3500, 3600, 3600 Twin Row, 3700, EdgeVac to toseed Vac Meter Meter kit kitWith is available available on the 3110, 3110, 3140, 3140, 3200, 3500, 3600, 3600 Twin Twin Row,The 3700, eliminating only models twoon moving the meter has low ownership costs.

EdgeVac Vac is the 3600, 3600 Row, 3700, and 3700 24 rowwaste.

20"/22" planter builtparts, in 2010 or3200, after.3500, The Mechanical to Vac Meter kit is and 3700 24 row 20"/22" planter models built in 2010 or after.

The Mechanical to Vac Meter kit is is EdgeVac to Vac Meter kit is available on the 3110, 3140, 3200, 3500, 3600, 3600 Twin Row, 3700, and 3700 24 row 20"/22" planter models built in 2010 or after.

The Mechanical to Vac Meter kit available on 3500 planters 2006 model year and newer, 3600 and 3600 Twin Row planters 2006 available onrow 3500 planters 2006 models model year year and newer, 3600 and and 3600 Twin Row Row planters 2006 and 3700year 24 20"/22" planter built inmodel 2010 oryear after.

The Mechanical to Vac Meter2006 kit is available on 3500 planters 2006 and newer, 3600 3600 Twin planters model and newer and 3660model planters 2012 and newer. model year and newer and 3660 planters 2012 model year and newer. available on and 3500newer planters year2012 andmodel newer,year 3600and andnewer.

3600 Twin Row planters 2006 model year and2006 3660model planters model year and newer and 3660 planters 2012 model year and newer.

ELECTRIC CLUTCHES CLUTCHES RETROFIT RETROFIT KIT: KIT: ELECTRIC ELECTRIC CLUTCHES RETROFIT KIT: Reduce seed costs and maximize yield potential by eliminating over planting at end rows, point ELECTRIC CLUTCHES KIT:potential Reduce seed seed costs and and RETROFIT maximize yield yield potential by by eliminating over over planting planting at at end end rows, rows, point Reduce costs maximize rows and in irregularly shaped fields. Kinze electric eliminating clutches retrofit kit allows you to avoidpoint planting rows and and in irregularly irregularly shaped fields. fields.

Kinze electric clutches retrofit retrofit kit allows allowsatyou you torows, avoidpoint planting Reduce seed costs and areas maximize yield potential byoff eliminating overand planting endto rows in shaped Kinze electric clutches kit avoid planting in previously-planted of the field by turning seed meters planter sections based on in previously-planted previously-planted areas offields. the field field by turning turning off seed meters meters and planteryou sections based on rows in irregularly shaped Kinze electric clutches retrofit kit to planting in areas of the by seed planter sections based on fieldand maps and already planted areas.

The electricoff clutches retrofitand kitallows is available foravoid 3200, 3600, field maps and and already planted areas.

Theturning electricoffclutches clutches retrofit kitplanter is available available for 3200, 3200, 3600, infield previously-planted of the field seed meters and sections based onthe maps planted areas.

The electric retrofit kit is for 3600 Twin Row,already 3700areas and 3700 24 rowby 20"/22" model Kinze planters.

There are specific kits3600, for 3600maps Twinand Row,already 3700 and and 3700 areas.

24 row rowThe 20"/22" model Kinzeretrofit planters.

There are specific specific kits3600, for the the field planted electric clutches kit is available for 3200, 3600 Twin Row, 3700 3700 24 20"/22" Kinze planters.

There kits for AgLeader® or ISOBUS systems that allow you tomodel control two-row sections orare three-row sections for AgLeader® or ISOBUS systems that allow you to control two-row sections or three-row sections for 3600 Twin Row, 3700 and 3700 24 row 20"/22" model Kinze planters.

There are specific kits for the AgLeader® or ISOBUS systems that allow you to control two-row sections or three-row sections for the 3700 36R20 planter. the 3700 3700 36R20 36R20 planter.

AgLeader® or ISOBUS systems that allow you to control two-row sections or three-row sections for the planter. the 3700 36R20 planter.

HYDRAULIC DRIVE DRIVE RETROFIT RETROFIT KIT: KIT: HYDRAULIC HYDRAULIC DRIVE RETROFIT KIT: Make your planter variable rate ready with a hydraulic drive retrofit kit. The hydraulic drive HYDRAULIC DRIVE RETROFIT Make your your planter planter variable rateKIT: ready with with a a hydraulic hydraulic drive drive retrofit kit. kit. The The hydraulic hydraulic drive drive Make variable rate ready adjusts planting rates on-the-go from the cab based on fieldretrofit prescriptions or by manual control.

adjusts planting rates on-the-go fromwith the cab cab based on on fieldretrofit prescriptions or by manual manual control.

Make your planter variable ratewith ready amotor hydraulic drive kit.

The or hydraulic drive adjusts planting rates on-the-go from the based field prescriptions by control.

The hydraulic drive operates a single for 12and 16-row configurations, two motors for The hydraulic hydraulic drive operates with a single single motor foron 12-field andprescriptions 16-row configurations, configurations, twocontrol. motors for for adjusts planting rates on-the-go from the cab based or by manual The drive operates with a motor for 12and 16-row two motors 24-row configurations. The hydraulic drive retrofit kit is available on the 3600, 3600 Twin Row and 24-row configurations.

The hydraulic hydraulic drivemotor retrofit kit isand available onconfigurations, the 3600, 3600, 3600 3600two Twin Row and and The hydraulic drive operates with a single forkit 1216-row motors for 24-row The drive available on the Twin Row 3700 24configurations. row 20"/22" model planters and is retrofit specific toiseither the AgLeader or ISOBUS systems.

3700 24 row 20"/22" model planters and is specific to either the AgLeader or ISOBUS systems.

24-row configurations.

The hydraulic drive retrofit kit is available on the 3600, 3600 Twin Row and 3700 24 row 20"/22" model planters and is specific to either the AgLeader or ISOBUS systems.

See back for additional kits > 3700 24 row 20"/22" model planters and is specific to either the AgLeader ISOBUS systems. kits See or back for additional additional See back for kits >> See back for additional kits >

Ready to to Learn Learn More More Ready Ready to Learn More or Purchase Purchase Planter Retrofit Kit? Kit? Ready to Learn More Retrofit or aa Planter Planter Retrofit or Purchase a Kit? or a orPlanter VisitPurchase Kinze.com/Retrofit contact yourRetrofit local dealer! Kit?

Visit Kinze.com/Retrofit Kinze.com/Retrofit or contact your local dealer! *Speed and accuracy of the planteror may be limitedyour by fieldlocal conditions, seed type and other variables.

Visit contact dealer! *Speed and accuracy of the planter may be limited by field conditions, seed type and other variables. *SpeedKinze.com/Retrofit and accuracy of the planter be limited by field conditions, seed type and other variables.

Visit ormay contact your local dealer! *Speed and accuracy of the planter may be limited by field conditions, seed type and other variables.

THE DIFFERENCE IS KINZE TH HE E D D II F FF FE ER RE EN NC CE E II S S K K II N NZ ZE E T THE DIFFERENCE IS KINZE

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

16

m 17 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

William Agee Farms during Harvest 2016.

more time, less grain loss After switching between a draper, platform, and back to a draper head, fourth generation farmer Brian Agee is a firm believer in the MacDon FlexDraper.

When MacDon first released the FD 70 draper head, William Agee Farms immediately traded in their platform for a 35’ draper.

“Our platform was great at the time,” said Brian, “but after using the MacDon FlexDraper it would be hard to go back.”

The draper has been a game changer for the farm due to the many features available. One of the most utilized features for Brian is the forward and backward tilt. This allows for a better cut, making it possible to cut beans earlier in the morning to later in the day.

The MacDon FlexDraper has a close gap between the reel fingers and cutter bar, allowing for less grain loss, even when the head is flexed. Brian points out that a substantial amount of beans were left on the platform, whereas if the draper leaves any it’s a small handful.

Along with the header tilt and fore-aft reel positioning, the reel also has four adjustable cam positions to best William Agee Farms chooses Central Illinois Ag as suit harvest circumstances. their equipment dealer simply because of the quality of service and their salesman, Mike Barringer.

“The weather can be very unpredictable during harvest and being able to cut soybeans quicker and in many “If we need parts, Mike (Barringer) brings different conditions takes a lot of stress out of the them to us. If we need service, Mike helps to get equation,” said Brian. us running quickly. We value our salesman at Central Illinois Ag because he truly cares for our farming operation.”

-Brian Agee

Photo: Brian Agee (combine) and his father, Bill Agee (tractor) harvesting soybeans with their MacDon FD70.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

18

cia Sales Team *Numbers listed are cell phone numbers

Steve Schmidt Atlanta, IL (217) 737-7445

Dallas Kaufman Danvers, IL (309) 613-0556

Michael Schmidt Lincoln, IL (217) 737-8669

Clay Witham Stanford, IL (217) 519-4346

Brian Reeser Clinton, IL (217) 519-4341

Mike Barringer Decatur, IL (217) 519-2918

Chad Colby Goodfield, IL (309) 361-5564

Andrew Elder Taylorville, IL (217) 306-4621

John Coers New Holland, IL (217) 737-5674

Mike O’Neil Arrowsmith, IL (309) 275-8158

Ryan Curry Lincoln, IL (217) 671-5296

Jeff Copley LeRoy, IL (217) 871-4097

Joe Fisher Petersburg, IL (217) 303-1754

Doug Franzen Farmer City, IL (309) 275-8556

m 19 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

Larry Maupin LeRoy, IL (217) 620-8939

Locations Atlanta 200 Sharon St. Atlanta, IL 61723 (800) 762-2325 Clinton 1000 State Route 10 East Clinton, IL 61727 (800) 362-3866 Farmer City 792 U.S. Hwy 150 East Farmer City, IL 61842 (800) 334-8942 Mason City 130 Tonica St. Mason City, IL 62664 (217) 482-9760

live.work.grow.

showcase

Browse our ‘lot’ of equipment chosen exclusively for this issue of Live.Work.Grow. to bring you the best deals.

Call Central Illinois Ag owner Steve Schmidt at (217) 737-7445, or your respectable salesman.

Inventory is added daily at: www.centralilag.com

STEIGER 385 ZBF112261

1110 Hrs MAGNUM 225CVT 245 Hrs MAGNUM 280 $115,500 ZCRH06380 $130,000 ZERF07000

STEIGER 500 HD ZBF125081

1455 Hrs STEIGER 550QT $179,900 ZCF132785

1675 Hrs STEIGER 500QT $199,900 ZCF129285

458 Hrs $169,900

855 Hrs $214,900

CentralILAg.com

STEIGER 370 RT ZEF303039

429 Hrs $264,900

tractors

www.centralilag.com www.centralilag.com· ·Volume Volume3,3,Issue Issue21 20

live.work.grow.

showcase

Browse our ‘lot’ of equipment chosen exclusively for this issue of Live.Work.Grow. to bring you the best deals.

Call Central Illinois Ag owner Steve Schmidt at (217) 737-7445, or your respectable salesman.

Inventory is added daily at: www.centralilag.com

CASE IH 1200 CBJ026101

16R/30 CASE IH 1250 $22,399 Y9S007667

CASE IH 1240 YAS007113

16R/30 $51,999

CASE IH 1250 YAS008255

16R/30 CASE IH 1250 $39,199 Y9S007924

16R/30 $39,199

24R/30 CASE IH 1255 $67,599 YDS042082

24R/30 $125,000

CentralILAg.com

planters

m 21 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

NEW! CASE IH 2150 (In the ATL Showroom)

CALL

live.work.grow.

showcase

Browse our ‘lot’ of equipment chosen exclusively for this issue of Live.Work.Grow. to bring you the best deals.

Call Central Illinois Ag owner Steve Schmidt at (217) 737-7445, or your respectable salesman.

Inventory is added daily at: www.centralilag.com

KINZE 3600 614856

16/31 KINZE 3600 $43,000 620999

16/30 KINZE 3600 ASD $49,999 623829

KINZE 3600 ASD 103509

12/23 NEW! KINZE 3600 ASD 16R NEW! KINZE 3700 ASD 24R $84,900 103588 $104,999 104555 $134,999

16/30 $69,599

CentralILAg.com

planters

www.centralilag.com www.centralilag.com· ·Volume Volume3,3,Issue Issue21 22

REDUCED SOIL COMPACTION

up to 40% lower inflation pressures

REDUCED POWER HOP AND ROAD LOPE

STUBBLE-RESISTANT

compounding backed by warranty

IMPROVED TRACTION

with stability that provides more power to the ground

FIELD TECH SUPPORT

from nationwide Grizz Squad

90-DAY GUARANTEE allows for return and refund if not satisfied

AMERICAN-OWNED, ENGINEERED, MANUFACTURED

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CENTRAL ILLINOIS AG DEALER FOR MORE INFORMATION

m 1-800-872-2327 | www.titan-intl.com

TITAN MOVES THE WORLD®

© 2016 Titan International, Inc. TWI, Quincy, IL. All Rights Reserved. Goodyear is a registered trademark of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.

23 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

Low sidewall technology™ (LSW®) FIELD TEST SHOWS INCREASED YIELDS Titan recently conducted a field study on two identical test plots planting corn near Sikeston, Missouri. Both were planted with identical MFWD tractors, pulling identical 16-row planters.

G

oodyear® Farm Tires, a Titan International brand, is the only brand to offer performanceenhancing LSW tires for agriculture. Leveraging the company’s competitive advantage as a complete wheel/ tire solutions manufacturer, LSW features a larger rim diameter and shorter sidewall than standard tires, while maintaining the same outside diameter. This exclusive design reduces the sidewall recoil typically associated with standard tires, thereby reducing road lope for full-speed transport and decreasing power hop for undisturbed planting and tillage operations.

One tractor was outfitted with the standard factory dual set up with 380/80R38 on the fronts 480/80R50 on the rears. The other was outfitted with Goodyear Extreme Flotation super singles using the LSW1000/40R32 on the front and the LSW1100/45R46 on the rear. Results showed the test plot with LSW tires yielded five more bushels per acre compared to the duals. This example demonstrates that an additional five bushels per acre at $3.25 per bushel on 1,500 acres could add an extra $24,375 in annual profit by running Goodyear Extreme Flotation LSW tires.

For more information, visit lswadvantage.com

LSW tires also have the ability to carry the weight of the equipment at 40 percent lower inflation pressures than a comparable standard tire, resulting in less groundbearing pressure for reduced soil compaction and better yields.

Titan offers multiple Goodyear LSW sizes and styles suited to a range of 4WD tractors, MFWD tractors, combines, grain carts and sprayers — including both row crop and super-single flotation sizes.

One great example of how LSW can offer performance improvements is the switch from standard factory duals to Goodyear Extreme Flotation LSW tires. Pinch row compaction and rutting are common results of running duals, resulting in a negative impact on yields, through stunted crops, root growth development, and poor seed germination.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

24

Photo: Robert Jacob, Sam Opperman, Megan Opperman, and David Opperman during Harvest 2016.

T

Family & Farming

he Opperman Farm began in 1862 when Fred Dittus purchased the first 80-acre farm for $11 per acre. This is the same soil that David Opperman, fifth generation, and his family continues to farm 154 years later.

David recalls riding with his dad in the field at a young age. His dad was always detail oriented, and his pride in the farm was shown through the conducted field tests and fertility tests he often performed. This taught David to continually stay updated with new technology and learn techniques to protect the soil and gain yield.

While there are a lot of potential career opportunities available within the agriculture industry, the Opperman siblings have always cherished life on the farm and working together as a family.

As a Senior at Illinois State University, Sam studies Ag Business and upon graduation plans to return to the farm full time. Megan is currently studying Ag Business Management at Lincoln Land Community College and plans to attend Illinois State University to focus in Crop and Soil Sciences. Returning to farm with her dad, brother, and Robert Jacob (family/friend who has been a valuable part of the operation for almost 30 years) is her plan after graduating from ISU. “From an early age, I’ve always enjoyed agriculture,” said Sam, “being in the field, especially with my family, is a dream come true.”

Photo: Harvesting soybeans with the new idea in 1976.

David and Robert welcomed the two siblings into the operation with countless hours teaching them techniques and helping them get acclimated to the family business. Due to their commitment to school, Sam and Megan are limited to weekends in the field.

“Raising my children on the farm and continuing the legacy is important to me. Some things have changed but the principles of hard-work and love for the land have not. Those are the values each generation can “The farm has been in our family for over 150 years and it’s a true blessing and honor that I’m able to continue continue,” said David. the tradition,” Megan said.

David’s children and sixth generation farmers, Megan and Sam, have spent numerous hours in years past sitting next to their dad in the buddy seat. However, now they can be found in the drivers seat working ground and pulling the grain cart during harvest. The sibling pair are eager to learn the business operation and inthe-field decisions of the farm.

m

Soybean Harvest 2016

25 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

EQUIPMENT REMAINS THE SAME ase, International Harvester, and now Case IH have brought, and continue to bring, quality equipment to Opperman Farms over the last six generations.

C

I

n the 1970’s David’s salesmen were Bill Marcotte (Marcotte International, Lincoln, IL) and Dick Schmidt (Schmidt Implement, Atlanta, IL). When the businesses merged, Opperman Farms became a valuable part of Schmidt-Marcotte Inc., and now Central Illinois Ag.

David recalls his favorite tractor being the International 1206. At the time it was the largest on the market and is remembered to him as having a noisy cab. “I remember “Time is essential and Central Illinois Ag understands wearing ear phones and having the radio up extra loud,” that in all departments of the dealership: service, parts, David laughed. and sales,” said David.

The International Harvester Axial-Flow combine was introduced in 1977, it replaced the New Idea UniHarvester on their farm. David says the difference was night and day. Opperman Farms International AxialFlow 1460 proved itself when a higher premium was paid for better quality grain.

With very little issues and always being on top of technology, Case IH remains the equipment leader on the Opperman Farm.

The dealership understands that farming is a business and it is critical to serve the farmer in a timely order.

The knowledgeable service department and salesman relationship is a large part of why David chooses Central Illinois Ag. “I appreciate and value my salesman (John). He brings value by working for my family farm by making suggestions to better my operation with the correct equipment and set-up in the field.”

-David Opperman

Photo: Unloading seed corn from the wagon into the semi in the 1970’s.

ILLINOIS SESQUICENTENNIAL FARM n 2012, the state of Illinois recognized the Opperman Family for being a family farmland owner for 150 years.

The now-six generations have owned and operated land through depressions and economy downturns. Through these challenges, the family has remained faithful and continues to build their operation.

I

The original 80-acres that Fred Dittus purchased in 1862 was passed down through the generations: Charles Dittus, Norma Dittus Finke and current owner, Ruth Finke Opperman (David’s mother).

This 80-acre piece of land continues to hold meaning to the family as it is where the homestead is built. Storage buildings are set on three of the acres, and the other 77-acres continue to be the same soil around the homestead that is farmed today.

The Department of Agriculture recognizes farms with continual lineal or collateral ownership for 100 and 150 years.

Since 2016, the state has honored over 600 farms as being sesquicentennial.

CENTRAL ILLINOIS AGFarm Bureau Partners magazine: Read more from the Illinois http://www.ilfbpartners.com/farm/growing-for-generations/

Photo credit: Jeff Adkins/Illinois Partner Stephanie, David, Sam, Megan, and Kathryn Opperman stand on the original 80-acre parcel with Ruth Opperman holding their sesquicentennial sign.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2 1 2626 www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue

an x-tended reach F uller Farms from McLean County, Illinois began using the J&M 1112 X-Tended Reach grain cart during Harvest 2016 after learning about several new features on the cart. Jeff Fuller, fourth generation farmer, knew it would be a solid purchase decision.

“We have always purchased J&M because they make reliable grain carts,” said Jeff.

retracts when unloading in the downward position to maximize unloading height.

“I feel comfortable that we are not losing any grain being able to directly point the spout down into the semi trailer,” said Bryan.

The larger auger on the J&M 1112 takes an average of 1.9 minutes to unload. Fuller Farms noticed a substantial The most important feature on the J&M 1112 for Fuller difference in speed while unloading to create a much Farms was the extended auger. The auger can extend up smoother overall process in the field. to three to four feet further than previous models and reach a maximum height of 18 feet.

The J&M 1112 has a V-Truss Axle which prevents bending and twisting. The solid axle helps to create a The further extended reach auger helps during wet field safer cart when hauling on uneven surfaces. conditions so the trucks can stay on the road and grain can be dumped from the field.

The heavy-duty gearboxes, 20 bolt hubs, and 6’’ spindles are also part of the reason this cart outperforms Bryan Fuller, fifth generation farmer, is the primary competitor brands. operator of the grain cart. He says the high visibility due to the extended reach and the telescoping flow control “The J&M 1112 exceeded our expectations for harvest. spout is a great benefit to the cart. The spout extends We definitely made a right choice to purchasing the in the outward position to maximize side reach, and X-Tended Reach Auger Cart,” said Bryan.

Photo: Bryan Fuller (5th Generation), Gene Fuller (3rd Generation), and Jeff Fuller (4th Generation) in front of their J&M 1112.

m 27 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

12 & 22 Series X-Tended Reach™ Grain Carts

Greater & Straighter Upward, Outward & Forward Reach

J&M introduces the new 12 & 22 Series X-Tended Reach Grain Carts, available in 875-1,500 bushel capacities. The new X-Tended Reach models offer greater and straighter, upward, outward and forward reach. The in-line auger design eliminates the need for costly and problematic u-joint and soft-start type connectors, allowing the grain to quickly travel straight from lower to upper auger, transferring grain efficiently and reliably from the cart to the semi.

The 12 Series carts have a standard 12 ft wide tank design while the 22 Series carts have a patented leaner tank design that extends the low side of the cart an extra two feet towards the combine. The new 20” Bullet Auger unloads 600+ bushels per minute, the same rate as a larger 22” auger. Both 12 and 22 Series carts feature a unique three part telescoping flow control spout with a quick attach spout design provides various height and reach combinations to meet your specific unloading demands. Easily reach the tallest semi trailers and across ditches and fence rows while still having the forward reach to give the operator the closest and clearest view of the auger during unloading.

Storage Position Narrow Transport

Field Position Convenient Storage in the Field

Unload Position Maximum Upward, Outward and Forward Reach

The in-line Auger Design is much more efficient and reliable compared to an offset auger design. No u-joint coupling or cushion arm required. Grain is not redirected, ensuring better transfer of grain and auger cleanout.

Atlanta Clinton Farmer City Mason City

J&M Manufacturing, Inc | 284 Railroad Street • Fort Recovery, Ohio 45846 • (419) 375-2376 • fax: (419) 375-2708

Fuller Farms chooses Central Illinois Ag as their Case IH and J&M dealer because of the quality of service and products. The relationships established with personnel in all departments means a lot to the farm.

“My salesman (Clay), is there for me at all times.

He’s brought me parts on the busiest of days and supported me through each season. You don’t just get that with any dealership.”

-Jeff Fuller Jeff farms with his father, Gene Fuller, son, Bryan Fuller, daughter, Sara Fuller, and wife, Amy Fuller.

Photo: Bryan Fuller, Jeff Fuller, and Gene Fuller

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

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Minimize loss, maximize profit Introducing the Geringhoff TruFlex Razor™ Draper

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eringhoff ’s TruFlex Razor™ draper head was fieldtested in several parts of the country, including Central Illinois, during harvest 2016. During this time, product support staff from the Geringhoff headquarters in Ahlen, Germany discovered challenges and solutions to improve the draper before it hits the market.

“The first Geringhoff draper was designed in 2009 with a prototype in the field by 2010. Testing occurred worldwide to research the productivity, following with a second prototype (what you see below) designed in 2014 and first tested in 2015,” said Christian Buhren, Geringhoff Product Support Staff. “After researching how it performs on flat land, hills, rolling ground, and through transport we have taken those findings to improve the product.”

In 2016, eight 30’ drapers were tested in Europe and New Zealand due to the market and smaller field sizes, along with eight 40’ drapers in the United States to test on fields with uneven terrain and in a variety of climates.

Geringhoff Product Support Staff, Christian Buhren, and Geringhoff Engineer, Stephan Klockenbusch, setting up the TruFlex Razor™ prototype at Central Illinois Ag.

TruFlex Razor™ Segmented Frame: Three frame segments flex independently, giving you an exceptionally responsive performance in all field conditions.

Optional Integrated Air Flow: This system provides a stream of air at the cutter bar to gently lift the crop onto the draper table, and into the feeder house. This is the only integrated airflow system on the market.

Three Section Reel: Maintains the critical distance between reel fingers and cutter bar when operating on uneven ground. The four position cam allows you to be aggressive or as gentle as you need to be on the crop.

m m 29 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com 29 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

He says the differences between the two drapers are very distinct and points out the Geringhoff features of the knife drive, frame segments, reels and integrated air system.

The TruFlex Razor™ being tested on a farm in East Central Illinois during Harvest 2016.

“Drapers are just smoother to run and you’re really utilizing the performance of the combine,” said Chad Colby, General Manager of Central Illinois Ag.

“For the first time, there will be a serious competition in Hence the name “TruFlex” the draper is flexible up to the draper category,” said Jeremy.

12 degrees making it easy to transport over ditches and rolling hills. The cutter bar follows through with the Central Illinois Ag is honored to be an active part of main frame allowing consistency with ground contact. the TruFlex Razor™ through testing and feedback for product development. After a final round of updates Many features on this draper differentiate it from others and testing, the draper is scheduled to be released for on the market. Jeremy Wolf, Farmer in East Central sale in 2017.

Illinois, ran the TruFlex Razor next to a competitor draper, both being pushed by a Case IH 8240.

“Drapers may look similar but are all very different in their own respects,” said Jeremy Wolf, Farmer in East Central Illinois.

Hydraulically Driven Center Knife Drive: The center drive eliminates higher maintenance mechanical drives, which in turn reduces weight, protects the knives, and provides a narrow end divider for less damage to the uncut crop.

TruFlex Razor™ Cutter Bar: Fully flexible cutter bar works in conjunction with the flexible frame to provide true ground contour cutting.

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illinois ag in the classroom

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ach year, Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom (IAITC) puts together a few good books with an agriculture message. This year, the common theme is ‘causes’. It is ironic how many causes you can make with an agriculture link.

The Last Great Adventure of the PB& J Society

by Janet Sumner Johnson (ISBN:9781-62370-636-4).

In Illinois, roughly 53% of all students are eligible for free and reduced lunches. This 4th-8th grade book explores friendship and economic hard times, including hunger.

What is it like to be hungry and help a friend? Hunger might be next door and a bountiful food supply is the answer.

Sleep Tight Farm

by Eugenie Doyle (ISBN 978-1-4521-2901).

The cause here is that farming is hard work! This Pre-K to 2 picture book showcases a small farm getting ready for winter. Nothing is typical about any farm, but the hard work that goes into all aspects of farming is apparent in this book!

If You Plant a Seed

by Kadir Nelson (ISBN 978-0-06-229889-8).

Have you seen any unkind acts or words in the last week?

This Pre-K to 2 picture book shows there is more than planting and harvesting in every seed! A little kindness goes a long way in this beautifully illustrated book.

Looking for a book on labor and agriculture? Check out Return to Sender by Julia Alvarez (ISBN 978-030705851230).

The history of genetics and plant science can be discovered in Gregor Mendel: The Friar Who Grew Peas by Cheryl Bardoe (ISBN 978-0810954755).

Students with unique needs and STEM can both be found in Temple Grandin: How the Girl Who Loved Cows Embraced Autism and Changed the World by Sy Montgomery (ISBN 978-0-547-44315).

And of course, if you are looking for an Illinois book about what it is like to farm, check out Heartland by Diane Siebert (ISBN 978-0064432870).

This classic is recently re-released and combines the lyrical writing and outstanding illustrations of Aurora native Wendell Minor.

Happy Reading!

The Flight of the Honey Bee

by Raymond Huber (ISBN 978-0-7636-7648-3).

Pollinators and agriculture are a cause you will continue to see in the coming year. Pollinators are a priority, and this K-2 Read and Wonder book complete with excellent Kevin Daugherty is the Education Director for the Illinois vocabulary, is part of our Book Grant Pollinator Bundle. Agriculture in the Classroom program. IAITC supports local The message is in harmony with the message of farmers! educational and outreach efforts by providing high quality, Water is Water

by Miranda Paul (ISBN 978-1-59643-984-9).

The water cycle told through beautiful illustrations and delightful poetic text. This book looks like a Pre-K to 2 book, but we consider it a big part of our Environmental Stewardship Book Grant Bundle.

standards-based, scientifically sound agriculture information that can be easily integrated by teachers into the existing classroom curriculum. IAITC seeks to improve student achievement by applying authentic, agricultural-based content as the context to teach core curriculum concepts in science, social studies, language arts and nutrition. To find out more about Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom, or to get involved in your local AITC program, visit our website: www.agintheclassroom.org.

m 31 31 ·· Central Central Illinois Illinois Ag Ag ·· www.centralilag.com www.centralilag.com

your soybean checkoff in action Written by the Illinois Soybean Association Informational Website, regional events, local radio and ILSoyAdvisor Field Days more tools to connect with higher yields and better profits Each summer, we host ILSoyAdvisor Field Day events throughout the state, working with industry partners The Illinois Soybean Association invests growers’ to showcase the latest advances in soybean technology checkoff dollars to help every Illinois soybean farmer and management. In 2017, event will be held in July in stay competitive in an increasingly global marketplace. Belleville and Roseville, Ill. Dates will be released soon.

We believe that soybeans are a high-value crop that benefits from better management—and we strive to Growers who attend the field days consistently report provide you with the tools, technology and resources that ISA’s independent third-party perspective provides to help you improve your yields and increase your more actionable advice without the common marketing profitability while minimizing our environmental spin. Like the Summits, we offer real advice that will impact. improve your operation.

ILSoyAdvisor.com and CCA Soy Envoys If you grow soybeans, you need to visit www.

ILSoyAdvisor.com. Funded by the Illinois soybean checkoff, ILSoyAdvisor.com offers a wealth of information to boost yields and maximize profits.

ILSoyAdvisor Profitability Radio Each winter, ISA offers a series of radio interviews with economic experts who can help farmers make better decisions in the challenging times of tight margins.

Available on RFD network stations and several From expert articles to videos, podcasts, webinars independent ag news stations, it’s another way ISA and more, it’s s your one-stop-shop to better soybean works to connect with our soybean farmers throughout management. And, because the site is mobile friendly, the state. you can get information anytime and anywhere.

And if you miss an episode, all these interviews are You can even post comments or ask a question of our archived on ILSoyAdvisor.com.

CCA Soy Envoys, a group of agronomists across the state who offer updates and recommendations throughout the season.

Go online and join the conversation.

ILSoyAdvisor Soybean Summits Each winter, we present the most current information and advice at our ILSoyAdvisor Soybean Summits. For 2017, two events are planned – February 3 in Effingham and February 16 in Peoria.

The Summits provide a wide range of experts discussing the latest in soybean management, from general practices, best of class technology, recommendations on how to be more profitable and even ideas to improve your conservation efforts—all designed to maximize your farm’s profitability.

Soybean Summits registration is limited, so sign up today at ilsoy.org/summit or call 888-826-4011.

www.centralilag.com· ·Volume Volume3,3,Issue Issue21 www.centralilag.com

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Learn more about the brand of equipment financing that works for you: AgDirect financing. Available at your ag equipment dealer. Visit agdirect.com or call 888-525-9805.

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*Subject to approval. AgDirect is an equipment financing program offered by participating Farm Credit System associations of AgDirect, LLP.

33 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

the pros know: tim clark concrete

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ix years ago Tim Clark, owner of Tim Clark Concrete in San Jose, IL, began using Takeuchi machines.

Recommendations from fellow contractors led Tim to contact Central Illinois Ag and test out a compact skid steer. Little did Tim know the moment he started the machine up, he would soon switch all of his construction inventory over to Takeuchi machines.

The TL12 is the most commonly used machine for Tim Clark and his crew. With a rated operating capacity of 2,833 pounds (8,102 pounds tipping load) and 110 horsepower, the Tier 4 Takeuchi TL12 is the perfect machine to move anything heavy from concrete removal to brush and tree cleanup, excavation, and for dirt grading.

Tim Clark Concrete, an agricultural and commercial concrete construction business, has several uses for the compact machines. With job sites in all parts of Central Illinois, Takeuchi is their number one choice because the machines are quick and easy to haul, simple to operate, and extremely reliable.

The TB145 (now a TB260), a compact excavator, is used to dig footings, excavating, and tearing out the concrete.

Standing only 8 foot 5 inches off the ground, it can dig up to 12 feet into the ground.

A powerful turbocharged engine with a pivot boom and standard backfill blade gives the TB1140 Series 2 hydraulic Excavator the functionality of a compact excavator. Tim Clark Concrete has great use for this machine with concrete removal and clearing.

“Power and dependability is essential when deciding on what brand of machines to run, and Takeuchi has proven to be the best,” said Tim. (continue to page 36)

Photo: Tim Clark Concrete smoothing concrete on a job site after digging footings with their Takeuchi TB145.

Working with heavy substances such as concrete, a strong machine is crucial. His fleet of (2) TL12’s, a TB145, and TB1140 Series 2 create a solid line-up of durable equipment.

Photo: Cleaning up brush and trees with the Takeuchi TL12 and Danuser Intimidator Tree Puller attachment.

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m 35 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

(continued from page 34) The wide range of job sites Tim Tim chose Central Illinois Ag as his construction Clark Concrete has been on, he’s noticed a substantial equipment dealer because our salesmen are not always difference in the drive system with the Takeuchi. Tim a ‘salesman,’ but knowledgeable in service and parts. points out that in the competitor models, he has always had issues with the drive system and in his 25 years of “Salesmen Ryan (Curry) and Michael (Schmidt) business, he’s finally found a dependable machine. are very professional and reliable. They go out of their way to help me.”

-Tim Clark When asked what project has been the most memorable to Tim Clark Concrete, he promptly responded being a part of the rebuild process at Central Illinois Ag in Atlanta, IL. From grading the dirt for the 40,000 square foot building to working with 2,000 yards of concrete, Tim and his employees had a critical role in building the Case IH dealership. With a process that required strong and durable machines, the Takeuchi track loaders and compact excavators were put to a challenge.

Tim Clark Concrete recommends Takeuchi and Central Illinois Ag to anyone looking for a reliable machine A Takeuchi TL12 and TB235 were used constantly on from a dependable company. the job site to make footings for the concrete, dig areas for piping for the geothermal energy, and dig areas for the floor drains, along with setting the concrete. The two Takeuchi machines successfully made the job possible.

Photo: Tim Clark, owner of Tim Clark Concrete, and his Takeuchi TB1140.

Photo: Tim Clark Concrete with their TB290 digging footings and applying rebar at Central Illinois Ag in Atlanta, IL.

What’s new with takeuchi?

Our construction sales and service teams attend training regularly to keep you and your operation up-to-date with Takeuchi. Visit our website at centralilag.com and click the ‘Construction’ tab to view our inventory, and specials within the sales, service, and parts departments. Contact Central Illinois Ag for all your Takeuchi needs whether it be in construction or agriculture use.

Atlanta (217) 648-2307 ◆ Clinton (217) 935-8373 ◆ Farmer City (309) 928-2154 ◆ Mason City (217) 482-9760

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

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$3918 List $3134* SALE

$3520 List $2816* SALE

$7537 List $6030* SALE

Attachments

m 37 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

*Price does not include shipping. Sale good through 2/17/17 only at Central Illinois Ag.

employee spotlight Dallas kaufman sales representative, atlanta I was hired at Schmidt-Marcotte, Inc. in 1991.

Before becoming a salesman I was a technician, and service manager.

My focus is taking care of the farmer.

My favorite memory is from 1987 when I sold my first Magnum tractor (the year it was released).

Taking care of farmers is the most enjoyable part of my job.

at Dallas Kaufman has been a salesman

CIA for 25 years.

Outside of work you can find me on my boat fishing with my family.

doug franzen sales representative, farmer city Growing up I remember ag salesmen at my family farm, and knew that’s what I wanted to do.

My priority is finding solutions for operations while bringing the most return for the farmers’ investment.

Interacting with customers is the most enjoyable part about being a salesman.

I’m a farmer so I understand how important my role as a salesman is to help your operation.

Central Illinois Ag has become my second family, co-workers and customers.

Doug Franzen has been a salesman at CIA

for 13 years.

When I’m not working my family and I remain active on our family farm.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 3, Issue 2

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200 Sharon Street Atlanta, IL 61723

centralilag.com inventory updated 24/7

@Liveworkgrowcia www.centralilag.com ¡ Volume 3, Issue 2

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