Farm News Year End - 2024 by Newspaper

Year End Decision Guide 2024

If you have a fireplace that burns wood, you know that it loses all of its heat up the chimney. Rick Titus has a wood burning insert that will burn with the efficiency of a wood stove and fit inside your fireplace so it keeps your fireplace look. The insert could heat up to 2,000 SQ. Ft and burn a third of the wood!

If you have a gas log in your fireplace it also sends all of its heat up the chimney. Rick has Vent Free gas logs that can burn as efficient as a gas cook stove and burn with the damper closed, thus keeping all the heat in the house. The vent free gas logs could heat 1,000 SQ. Ft of your home

If you have one of the newer gas fireplaces that vents out the side of the home or up a chimney, Rick can convert it over to a Vent Free log and keep all the heat in the home.

So no matter what kind of fireplace you may have, Rick has an efficient solution for it. Call Rick or email him at yahtitus@gmail.com or go to his web site below. Rick even has new fireplaces and wood stoves that can heat your home even during a power outage. - photo by Les Houser, Wright County Monitor

2024 ‘Coolest Thing Made in Iowa'

PELLA — The Vermeer ZR5-1200 self-propelled baler has been named the 2024 “Coolest Thing Made in Iowa” by the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI). This esteemed honor, organized by ABI, celebrates exceptional innovation in manufacturing and highlights the contribution of these products to the state’s economy and industry.

The ZR5-1200 self-propelled baler outperformed 66 other entries in the inaugural ABI contest, showcasing the vitality of Iowa's manufacturing industry. The contest, which started in March, involved a public nomination process, followed by an initial round of popular voting and a bracket-style tournament. The contest aims to highlight Iowa's robust manufacturing industry, which contributes approximately $38 billion to the economy annually and employs over 225,000 Iowans. Other finalists in the competition included Musco Sports Lighting, Dobson's Custom Built Pipe Organ and Sukup Manufacturing Safe T Home.

Vice President of Operations at Vermeer, Mindi Vanden Bosch, expressed her excitement upon receiving this honor

THE VERMEER ZR5-1200 SELF-PROPELLED BALER has been named the 2024 “Coolest Thing Made in Iowa” by the Iowa Association of Business and Industry.

on June 6 at ABI’s Taking Care of Business Conference in Davenport: “The foundation of Vermeer is the innovative vision of my grandfather (Gary Vermeer), a farmer who was always in search of a better way to get things done. This award proves his innovative legacy lives on.”

Introduced in 2017, the Vermeer ZR5-1200, recognized as the world’s first self-propelled baler, brings a new approach to haymaking by integrating comfort, speed and maneuverability. The

baler’s automation technology simplifies the process by reducing the number of steps to create a bale while also offering operators the ability to make real-time adjustments. The machine’s zero-turn capabilities further contribute to productivity by minimizing missed windrows.

The ZR5-1200 also includes specific design elements to enhance performance and user experience. The cab design emphasizes wide visibility and is

equipped with a camera that provides a view of the baler pickup and a rear view of the machine. Additionally, the baler incorporates quarter-turn technology and is powered by a 200-hp (149-kW) engine. This engine allows the machine to reach speeds of up to 12 mph in the field and up to 34 mph in transport mode.

The “Coolest Thing Made in Iowa” award, a key initiative of the ABI is a significant event that spotlights the vibrant and multifaceted manufacturing industry in Iowa as well as the wide spectrum of career opportunities it provides. ABI, with a history dating back to 1903, serves as a powerful and unified voice for business and industry in Iowa, tackling issues that impact Iowa employers. Composed of member companies spanning all industries and sizes in Iowa’s 99 counties, ABI members collectively employ more than 330,000 Iowans.

For over 76 years, Vermeer has led the way in agricultural innovation, transforming farming practices by pioneering hay and forage equipment. This award underscores the innovative tradition and commitment to industry advancements that define Vermeer. The entire team takes immense pride in this commitment, manufacturing highquality machinery in Iowa to support the agricultural industry.

For further details on the ZR5-1200 and its influence on the agricultural industry, visit vermeer.com or get in touch with a local Vermeer dealer.

UNI-HYDRO IRONWORKERS

-Submitted photo courtesy of Vermeer

Vermeer introduces advanced Pro G4 silage balers

Vermeer launched the 504 Pro G4 and 604 Pro G4 balers this fall, designed to deliver premium silage and dry hay for livestock operations of all sizes. These versatile machines offer innovative features that help boost productivity and bale quality across various crops and moisture levels, from dense silage to dry hay.

“The Pro G4 balers represent a significant step forward in silage and hay production,” said Bret Julian, sales and channel advancement director for Vermeer Forage Solutions. “These machines combine cuttingedge technology with practical design to help farmers create nutrient-dense forages efficiently, regardless of weather conditions or crop type.”

The Vermeer Pro G4 baler line offers two models to accommodate different operational needs. The 504 Pro G4 produces bales with diameters ranging from 36 inches to 60 inches, while the 604 Pro G4 extends bale diameter range up to 72 inches. Both models maintain a consistent bale width of 48 inches, allowing farmers to choose the baler that best fits their equipment capabilities and storage requirements.

Equipped with a two-bank, 17-knife chopping system, Vermeer Pro G4 balers give operators the ability to fine-tune their cut length for optimal silage fermentation. By selecting eight, nine, or all 17 knives, farmers can optimize bale density, silage quality, and digestibility to meet their specific needs. This flexibility enhances feed quality and can minimize mixing time, helping to optimize livestock nutrition, whether

THE VERMEER PRO G4 BALER LINE offers two models to accommodate different operational needs. The 504 Pro G4 produces bales with diameters ranging from 36 inches to 60 inches, while the 604 Pro G4 extends bale diameter range up to 72 inches.

producing silage or dry hay bales.

At the core of Vermeer Pro G4 balers’ advanced functionality is the Vermeer Atlas Pro control system, featuring a 7-inch color touchscreen. This system empowers operators to monitor real-time bale statistics and adjust key parameters from the comfort of the tractor cab.

The level of control offered by the Atlas Pro system allows for on-thego optimization, resulting in consistent, high-quality bales tailored to specific crop conditions or customer preferences, whether baling wet silage or dry hay.

Vermeer has strategically positioned

the netwrap system at the rear of Pro G4 balers, enabling easy loading and facilitating edge-to-edge wrapping. Operators can adjust net tension directly from the cab, allowing for precise control over bale formation and wrapping. This feature not only saves time but also helps create well-formed, tightly wrapped bales that maintain their quality during storage and transport, crucial for preserving silage nutrients and protecting dry hay from the elements.

Vermeer Pro G4 balers feature a camless wide pickup measuring 73 inches, designed for durability and

efficiency in varying field conditions. Equipped with rubber-mounted teeth, this pickup can handle heavy windrows with ease while minimizing wear, contributing to the overall reliability of the baler, whether working with wet silage crops or dry hay.

To further enhance productivity in challenging baling conditions, Vermeer has incorporated a drop floor system into Pro G4 balers. The spring-mounted floor flexes during baling to aid crop flow, helping reduce the likelihood of plugs. In the event of a blockage, operators can lower the floor hydraulically from the cab, quickly clearing the plug without leaving the tractor. This feature minimizes interruptions and keeps operators baling efficiently, whether in dense silage crops or variable dry hay conditions.

Power distribution in the Pro G4 balers is managed by a powersplit transmission, which evenly distributes power between the pickup and chamber, allowing smooth operation even in challenging conditions. Built with heavy-duty components like large bearings, shafts, rollers and chains, these balers are designed to withstand intensive use throughout the haying season. Four endless belts made from synthetic material and rubber offer exceptional durability and low maintenance, translating to increased reliability and allowing farmers to focus on their harvest rather than equipment upkeep.

For more information about the Vermeer 504 Pro G4 and 604 Pro G4 balers, visit vermeer.com or contact your local Vermeer dealer.

-Submitted photo courtesy of Vermeer

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• Represent the collective voice on the hill in Washington D.C. and Des Moines.

• Advocate for Iowa farmers related to corn markets, production and profitability.

• Connect with other industry leaders and farmers as a resource to give you an edge on making decisions for your farm.

To our members, thank you for making your voice heard. If you would like to become a member please visit iowacorn.org/join today!

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First of its kind

The next wave of automation came to large square baling in 2024 through Case IH Baler Automation. Designed for hands-free efficiency, large square baler automation maximizes throughput and delivers consistent, high-quality bales regardless of operator experience level. The dealer-installed automation kit connects seamlessly with Class 3 ISOBUS Puma, Optum and Magnum tractors.

“Productivity is the name of the game when it comes to the tight operating windows hay producers face,” said Brian Spencer, hay and forage marketing manager at Case IH. “Baler automation is the perfect example of purposeful technology from Case IH. It aims to tackle efficiencies by taking the duty off the operator to steer and make adjustments in field, allowing them to add productivity while in the cab.”

Case IH Baler Automation is the industry’s first LiDAR (light detection and ranging) baling system, opening unprecedented opportunities for hay producers in efficiency and productivity.

The LiDAR-based swath analysis sends out laser pulses to measure the position and size of the windrows. The technology adjusts the speed and steering of the tractor to maximize throughput without overloading the baler, resulting in increased runtime compared to traditional baling. With the automatic adjustments and hands-free baling, producers can put less experienced operators in the cab, or spend their time in the cab running farm operations or focusing on other business.

“This technology is built for the unpredictable yet expected challenges in baling with crooked windrows, and

Case IH brings LiDAR technology to hay producers

inconsistent widths and heights,” added Spencer. “The automatic adjustments in steering and speed ensure the bales are consistent and the baler is running at peak performance, avoiding blockages and overfilling.”

Case IH precision technology through AFS Connect also ensures that tracking and monitoring is happening during the baling process. Hay producers can remotely monitor field performance and tractor diagnostics during baling, while securing records for review after harvest. Baler Automation, which was launched at the 2024 NCBA Cattle Con, is compatible with HD models from Model Year 2020 to 2024, and XL models from Model Year 2022 to 2024.

-Submitted photo

CASE IH BALER AUTOMATION is the industry’s first LiDAR (light detection and ranging) baling system, opening unprecedented opportunities for hay producers in efficiency and productivity.

BioLumic pioneers new seed traits with seed company partners

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — BioLumic, the world’s only company treating seeds with light to activate genetic expression for new crop traits, has achieved a breakthrough in enhancing inbred corn lines. These genetically “pure” parent seeds are crucial for producing the world’s highperforming hybrid seeds favored by most farmers.

After achieving significant performance milestones in 2023 field trials, BioLumic is partnering with Beck’s Hybrids, Peterson Corn Genetics, Peterson Farms Seed, Breeder Direct and other seed companies to use BioLumic’s Genetic Expression Trait light-activated technology on a wide range of inbred and hybrid corn lines aiming to enhance their productivity. The inbred trials specifically target improved germination, emergence, seedling vigor, yield, and hybrid seed quality — all issues often associated when working with inbred seed corn breeding and production.

BioLumic harnesses ultraviolet light signaling, a scientifically proven process, to rapidly activate natural genetic expression in plants for improved yield, quality, and plant defense traits without requiring genetic modification or chemical additives. BioLumic’s technology is being commercialized for inbred and hybrid corn cultivars, with plans underway for light-treated seeds to be available to farmers for the 2025 planting season.

“By activating Genetic Expression Traits in corn parent lines and showing the ability to lock in those traits to hybrid corn progeny without any ensuing treatments, our UV light technology is rewriting the playbook for seed production,” said Steve Sibulkin, BioLumic CEO. “It eliminates years of trait identification and breeding work for driving yield, quality and plant health without the multi-year regulatory process associated with genetic modification.”

United States field corn production is dominated by vigorous, high-yielding hybrid cultivars bred from crossing genetically pure inbred seed lines to target specific traits. However, problems experienced with inbreeding depression

BIOLUMIC HARNESSES ULTRAVIOLET

LIGHT SIGNALING, a scientifically proven process, to rapidly activate natural genetic expression in plants for improved yield, quality, and plant defense traits without requiring genetic modification or chemical additives.

— including reduced germination, poor seedling emergence and vigor, increased susceptibility to environmental stressors and nutrient deficiency — often result in reduced yields and poor hybrid seed quality during the seed production process.

BioLumic’s light treatments for inbred seed are tailored to solve the problems associated with inbreeding depression. In 2023 trials, treated inbred corn lines with the stand establishment and yield trait package demonstrated a more than 7.3% yield gain without any changes compared to the grower’s standard practice — and the company is targeting double-digit yield gains this year. These substantial improvements in inbred uniformity and

yield were driven by enhanced earlyseason germination and increased seedling vigor, including an average 16% advantage in root biomass.

BioLumic’s Genetic Expression Traits can also be stacked together as trait packages to target multiple traits, such as improved stand establishment, yield, and composition (e.g. lipid content).

“Through our partnership with BioLumic, we are integrating this unique technology into our hybrid and inbred corn lines, evaluating BioLumic’s trait performance on some of our most promising germplasm this season,” said Marc Neuman, director of sales and product development at Breeder Direct.

“Our mission is to deliver elite genetics that give our seed company clients improved margin opportunity. BioLumic’s ability to improve the yield potential of germplasm that is already outstanding creates a big opportunity for us and independent seed companies.”

BioLumic is set to commercialize Genetic Expression Traits for both inbred and hybrid corn in partnership with Gro Alliance in Q1 2025. The company is actively collaborating with genetics providers to develop new traits for their cultivars. Additionally, BioLumic is advancing trait development of soybean parent lines, with initial trials commencing this year.

-Farm News file photo

FARMERS CO-OP ELEVATOR

Foliar Application

• Produces a systemic e ect in the plant. For best result apply 8 oz at V6 to VS and 24 oz at V12 to V14 before the plants get too tall. Apply along with a high quality surfactant like Argosy at 1 qt/100 gals to prevent wash-o and prolong e ect. 2.5 to 3 months activity.

General information: BioEmpruv is a biological fermentation extract containing a host of di erent substances that accomplish numerous actions within a corn plant. BioEmpruv contains biologically derived extracts, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, natural growth regulators and simulators, antioxidants, amino acids and bases and more. It also contains natural phytoalexins to boost the corn plants’ immune system and to increase the resistance to disease and pathogens as well as to environmental stresses. BioEmpruv contains natural and biodegradable ingredients. No chemicals or residues. BioEmpruv will be your best line of defense against Goss’s Wilt and other bacterial leaf diseases. Curative & very systemic. Much wider application window. Developed by PhD biochemist Dr Awada, Logan, UT.

Bio-Empruv

* Commercially applied to spuds, sweet and eld corn since 2014. It has increased corn yields from 10-90 Bu/A, depending on application timing and infection rate. Keeps plants green and lling until natural maturity (BL) is reached. Drydown with normal senescent plants let the healthy ears dry faster and earlier than corn and grain from a die down plant.

• Compatible with most pesticides and can be applied with other fertilizers, minerals, herbicides, insecticides or fungicides. Always refer to the other products’ labels for compatibility and do a jar test. Can be mixed with a fungicide, herbicide, mineral or insecticide if needed. BE acts against fungal & plus bacterial leaf diseases. Safe to humans

• If applying thru a center pivot, set the gallonage per acre at .1” to prevent wash o .

• Apply late season to an unhealthy corn crop for faster recovery. Can be applied through electric drive or other pivots set to apply .1 to .2” of water. It can also be applied aerially or with a ground rig. Thermographic imaging showed it stopped an infection within three days. Mix with 2 oz of Albion’s AA chelated Cu and Mn for Tar Spot. 2 years of trials in a heavy Tar Spot area near Monroe, Wis veri ed this. Completely safe to humans with a with a vanilla odor.

Holcomb Scraper Inc. announces 1400DM-LGP

The 1400DM-LGP (Low Ground Pressure) is a 14-cubic-yard capacity, direct mount ejector scraper, with a 9-foot cut and large 23.5-inch-by-25inch rear tires for excellent performance in softer conditions.

The direct mount design adds weight to the rear tractor tires when loading the scraper, increasing traction and performance.

The 1400DM-LGP features Holcomb’s new AG 360 Hitch, which allows direct hitching to the scraper using your tractor’s existing CAT 4 or CAT 5 ag drawbar. For construction or continuous heavy use, the 1400DM-LGP may be equipped with the optional Holcomb Model 20 yoketype scraper hitch. Forward placed 8-inch-by-24-inch router bits keep material in while loading and improve spread quality by keeping material in during the unloading cycle.

The Holcomb 1400DMLGP is available with a hydraulic synchronizing valve that ties the gate and ejector operation together with two hydraulic remotes or choose the three-circuit option to control functions separately.

For more information visit www.holcombscraper.com.

THE 1400DM-LGP (LOW GROUND PRESSURE) is a 14-cubic-yard capacity, direct mount ejector scraper, with a 9 foot cut and large 23.5-inchby-25-inch rear tires for excellent performance in softer conditions.

AGCO brings Fendt 600 Vario tractor to US

DULUTH, Ga. — AGCO Corporation, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision ag technology, introduced its AE50 award-winning Fendt 600 Vario Series tractor to North America in August.

Offering superior maneuverability and a completely new generation of Fendt’s innovative VarioDrive continuously variable transmission (CVT), the naturally superior 600 Vario is an efficient, uncompromising all-arounder, perfect for any task on the farm.

The 600 Vario will come in four models (614 Vario, 616 Vario, 618 Vario and 620 Vario), ranging from 149 to 209 rated-engine hp. With its impressive performance in a compact package, the 600 Vario is ideal for small to mediumsized farms, capable of tackling anything from row crop farming to loader work to transportation.

reduce slippage and maximize ground pressure.

n The FendtONE operator station enables state-of-the-art smart farming features, bringing machine and agronomic data together in a customizable, updatable technology suite.

n The Fendt cab features a vertically continuous panoramic window for high levels of allaround visibility.

n The new generation of Fendt’s VarioDrive CVT ensures stress-free power transmission on any surface, precisely regulating power output to each wheel through continuous measurement.

n Like all Fendt tractors, the Fendt 600 series offers a hydraulic reservoir separate from the transmission to eliminate any cross-contamination.

The Fendt 600 Vario became available for purchase at Fendt dealerships in North America beginning in August 2024.

“With the 600 Vario available in North America, we now have a complete line of machines perfect for any task on farms of any size,” said David Soliday, senior marketing m anager at Fendt. “The 600 Vario offers everything farmers have come to know and love about Fendt tractors, including our efficient CVT transmission, comfortable FendtONE operator station and best-in-class technology suite for those looking for a nimble, multiuse machine.”

Fendt’s 600 Vario features the all-new AGCO Power CORE50 4-cylinder, 5-liter engine. Combined with the Fendt iD low-speed concept,

the 600 Vario achieves its maximum torque of 950 Nm at a low rpm of between 1,200 and 1,600, providing impressive performance with remarkable fuel efficiency.

The Fendt 600 also features

innovative technologies that make the Vario series outstanding in the industry, including:

n The optional VarioGrip automatic tire pressure control system adjusts tire pressure to

All Fendt tractors are covered by Fendt’s industry-leading Gold Star Customer Care Program, which comes standard with a three-year or 3,000-hour fullmachine warranty, including all scheduled maintenance and a guaranteed machine loan if repairs take longer than 48 hours.

To learn more about the Fendt 600 Vario, visit Fendt. com.

-Submitted photo

AGCO CORPORATION, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision ag technology, introduced its AE50 award-winning Fendt 600 Vario Series tractor to North America in August.

Case unveils Axial-Flow series combine in 2024

RACINE, Wis. — Case IH is incorporating industry-leading technology with the heritage of Axial-Flow combines as the perfect harvesting partner for a wide variety of growers and custom harvesters with the new Axial-Flow 260 series. Purposefully designed for unparalleled productivity, growers can access subscriptionfree, integrated technology to meet the unique needs of their operations.

The premium technology built within the Axial-Flow 260 series combine sets a new standard for operator experience, while also maximizing throughput and grain handling with single-rotor Case IH harvesting technology.

“The Axial-Flow 260 series combine represents a significant leap forward in integrated technology throughout the harvesting process for growers,” says Leo Bose, harvesting segment lead at Case IH. “We purposefully bundled precision technologies so there are no subscriptions or activations required to run the machine. The subscription-free connectivity gives customers the ability to remotely view machine and agronomic data via the new Case IH FieldOps platform, which will launch later in 2024. The technology stays for the lifetime of the hardware, boosting resale value.”

The Axial-Flow 260 series is equipped with Harvest Command combine automation, which automatically optimizes

THE PREMIUM TECHNOLOGY built within the Axial-Flow 260 series combine sets a new standard for operator experience, while also maximizing throughput and grain handling with single-rotor Case IH harvesting technology.

settings to maximize throughput and grain quality, and features high-resolution Pro 1200 Dual Displays, giving operators easy access to machine metrics, field performance and grain quality in real-time. Additionally, growers can experience improved onrow accuracy, minimized header losses and less operator fatigue with the all new RowGuide Pro and AccuGuide autoguidance systems to maintain on-row accuracy even when stalks aren’t present. These tech solutions, including AccuSync with in-

field data sharing between multiple machines, are all provided with no subscription required.

“The Pro 1200 Dual Displays give me complete visibility with all my combine data on one monitor and coverage maps on the other, so I’m no longer flipping back and forth between screens,” says Paul Paplow, farmer, custom harvester and vice president at U.S. Custom Harvesters, Inc. “Within just five minutes of using the Axial-Flow 260 series, with its real-time

grain quality imaging feature, I could see the difference in superior grain quality.”

Building upon an enhanced operator experience, the AxialFlow 260 series offers the new ActiveTrac four-roller hydraulic suspended track system. With a larger footprint, the ActiveTrac system reduces compaction and increases flotation by 14% compared to fixed track offerings. Operators will find a new level of comfort with luxury seating that includes massage, heating, and new air

conditioning technology, along with simple seat controls, to easily optimize the operator’s comfort level during long harvest days.

“We engineered this new track system to reduce the machine’s footprint because minimizing soil compaction is important to us and our customers,” adds Bose. “With a new track system, integrated tech and improved accuracy, the Axial-Flow 260 series combine is an operator’s trusted partner for one of the busiest times of year.”

If your cattle or bison are bothered by ﬂies, lice, ticks or other parasites, you need one of our parasite treating stations. They work in pasture or lot on cows, calves, and bison. They are all automatic and require very little maintenance. Your cattle will do better if they are free of parasites.

-Photo courtesy of Case IH

John Deere expands W200 windrower series lineup

OLATHE, Kan. — John Deere expands its windrower series with the new W260M model, enabling increased productivity and efficiency. Offering an additional higher horsepower model at the M specification level, operators can cut a denser crop more efficiently.

Additionally, the all-new W260M seamlessly pairs with

the new mounted-merger option, allowing operators to combine up to 48 feet into one windrow, providing the opportunity for less future passes by eliminating merger and chopper passes, which ultimately can lead to less fuel usage and a more sustainable approach, with less crop damage.

The mounted-merger also is compatible with existing

windrower models — W235M, W235R and W260R. The complete solution set eliminates the need for an additional field pass, saving growers time and money.

“Dairy feed producers are looking for ways to improve profitability that doesn’t increase labor hours. The new W260M and mounted-merger solution set helps accomplish

just that,” said Kaylene Ballesteros, John Deere hay and forage go-to-market manager.

“Our customers need to do more with less to combat rising costs within the industry. A solution that offers time savings with less passes allows them more time and money to focus on other areas of their operation.”

The John Deere windrower portfolio also offers industry-

leading technology such as AutoTrac guidance, TouchSet that allows operators to make adjustments to windrow shape and conditioning, as well as mowing documentation in John Deere Operations Center for easy job tracking and better decision making.

The W260M and merger option became available at John Deere dealerships this fall.

-Photo courtesy of John Deere

JOHN DEERE EXPANDS ITS WINDROWER SERIES with the new W260M model, enabling increased productivity and efficiency.

•

Medgene collaborating with Iowa State

Working together to develop vaccines for sheep, goat industry

BROOKINGS, SD — Prescription platform vaccine manufacturer Medgene announced this fall that it will be expanding its vaccine offerings to help keep sheep and goats healthy in partnership with Iowa State University.

“Partnering with Medgene offers many benefits to university researchers, allowing them to continue to serve the needs of animal agriculture,” says Dr. Alan Young, Medgene co-founder and chief technology officer. “A collaboration of this type is also a benefit for Medgene, where the expertise of grant principal Dr. Jodi McGill can be used to solve tough problems for the animal health industry that can be rapidly implemented.”

The two-year grant that makes these sheep and goat vaccines possible is from the USDA Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) National Animal Disease Preparedness Response Program.

“Iowa State University is routinely contacted by goat producers who submit diagnostics for diseases and are looking for biologic solutions. Currently, they are forced to use tools developed for cattle with few products developed specifically for goats,” said Dr. Michael Roof, chief technology officer, Immunovac, Iowa State University. “Because of the variety of different diseases that need solutions, Medgene’s prescription vaccine platform is very appealing, as it can be applied quickly across numerous diseases, including bacterial and viral diseases.”

The grant has three objectives, all based around pursuing vaccine solutions for diseases affecting sheep and goats, including bluetongue virus (BTV), Cache Valley Fever and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with the team at Medgene,” said McGill. “I think this will be a really productive partnership. I’m also really excited to address this important need for our sheep and goat producers and am looking forward to seeing these vaccines

PRESCRIPTION PLATFORM VACCINE MANUFACTURER MEDGENE announced this fall that it will be expanding its vaccine offerings to help keep sheep and goats healthy in partnership with Iowa State University.

used on farms that need them.”

Pneumonia caused by respiratory infections such as RSV cause production losses and even death in young lambs and kids. Currently, most RSV and other respiratory viral pathogens are

recommended annually for cattle, but there are currently no vaccines available for sheep and/or goats.

In sheep and goats, Cache Valley Fever can cause abortions, malformed fetuses, infertility and congenital abnormalities.

Mosquitoes transmit the disease, which is endemic in many parts of the U.S. Developing vaccines to prevent this disease will benefit producers and improve animal welfare for small ruminants.

-Farm News file photo

Bextra Round Bale Feeder

Ralco introduces Rapid Strike

MARSHALL, Minn. —

Ralco, a leading innovator in natural animal health, has announced the launch of Rapid Strike, an advanced oral drench designed to maintain health during times of calf scours, a common and costly issue for beef and dairy producers.

Utilizing Ralco’s proprietary Microfused Essential Oils and Actifibe Prebiotic, Rapid Strike offers an effective, natural solution to support calf health.

Calf scours, a major cause of mortality in young calves, can result in significant economic losses for producers — more than any other health-related issue in a herd. Traditional treatment options have relied heavily on antibiotics, but the increasing threat of antibiotic resistance has driven the industry to seek alternative solutions.

It’s also important to note that some pathogens associated with calf scours are not bacterial but viral in nature, meaning antibiotics would offer little to no benefit in these cases.

Rapid Strike utilizes essential oils, prebiotics and electrolytes to support gut health, encourage healthy eating and drinking patterns and help maintain overall well-being in calves.

“As access to antibiotics becomes more restricted and their effectiveness diminishes, Rapid Strike provides a dependable approach to support calf health and growth,” said Dr. Jeff Hill, ruminant marketing manager for Ralco. “Using Microfused technology, combined with Actifibe Prebiotic, ensures the benefits reach the gut effectively, helping good bacteria thrive and providing a lasting solution for producers.

Rapid Strike is developed with Ralco’s innovative NEXUS approach, which carefully selects and combines

A breakthrough natural support for calf health

RALCO, A LEADING INNOVATOR in natural animal health, has announced the launch of Rapid Strike, an advanced oral drench designed to maintain health during times of calf scours, a common and costly issue for beef and dairy producers. Rapid Strike is developed with Ralco’s innovative NEXUS approach, which carefully selects and combines essential oils and plant extracts. Leveraging extensive research on over 400 essential oils, Rapid Strike provides a focused solution for calf health, drawing on Ralco’s 20-plus years of expertise in essential oils.

essential oils and plant extracts. Leveraging extensive research on over 400 essential oils, Rapid Strike provides a focused solution for calf health, drawing on Ralco’s 20-plus years of expertise in essential oils.

“Calf scours is a significant concern, but with Rapid Strike, producers can support gut health and help set calves up for continued growth and resilience,” said Hill. Rapid Strike is easy to

administer, requiring no veterinarian prescription or refrigeration, and is available in 250 ml and 60 ml bottles for immediate purchase. Administer 10 ml per head during periods of digestive

stress and repeat with follow-up doses if needed after 24 hours. Rapid Strike can be purchased through animal health distributors or RalcoAgriculture.com.

-Farm News file photo