Software-Apps

FBN Spins Out Its Crop Protection Business, Focuses on Marketplace and Technology

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 16:03:20 GMT

Last week, just a few hours after Corteva announced its spin out dividing seeds from crop protection, Farmers Business Network (FBN) announced it is separating its businesses. Moving forward FBN will focus on its digital marketplace for farmers, and the newly launched Global Crop Solutions will be an independent supplier of crop protection products.

FBN leaders say the timing is coincidental. Their motive for the timing was brought about by the new fiscal year. But they offer both of the announcements together could be a sign of a trend of vertical integration getting unwound in the name of efficiency and focus.

“We’re doubling down, allotting capital on digital innovation for FBN’s future,” says Diego Casanello, CEO of FBN. “FBN’s core business is a digital commerce and fintech platform. We want farmers to be able to buy, finance, and market everything they need while sitting in their combines. These are technology challenges, so the core competence you need to be successful at FBN is different from managing the supply chain of the crop protection business.”

In the past 14 months, FBN has been refocusing its business. First, it spun off its insurance business, then its Gradable business into a joint-venture with ADM. Now with its crop protection business spin out, Casanello says the FBN marketplace will feature GCS products, such as Willowood USA branded products, via a strategic partnership, and GCS products will explore distribution beyond the FBN marketplace.

“The big unlock for GCS is the opportunity to serve the entire retail and co-op industry,” Casanello says. “It frees GCS of any channel conflicts and hits the ground running with one of the largest portfolios of products in the industry. And it frees FBN from similar constraints as we move to an open marketplace architecture. We are onboarding new sellers and their portfolios every week. We provide them the tools to manage pricing, marketing, and placement. FBN is open for business and we’ve had significant interest from additional partners before and after the announcement.”

FBN’s Marketplace Strategy

Currently, FBN says it has 120,000 farmer members in the U.S. and Canada. The business provides a marketplace with farm inputs and supplies, financial services and data-driven intelligence.

FBN co-founder Charles Baron says the FBN marketplace has expanded its product range to include crop protection, seed (with additional partner news coming soon), fertilizer, livestock products, veterinary pharmaceuticals, farm supplies and more.

“To farmers, there’s no change in their experience. And over time, we’ll bring an even broader assortment of goods,” Baron says. “You’ll be seeing announcements from us every two weeks or so about the suppliers coming on the platform. It’s one of the most exciting times in our history.”

The leaders say farmer use of e-commerce has increased every year since they launched, and in 2025 FBN served a record number of customers. “Farmers are really focusing on value right now and maximizing every dollar,” said Baron. And per their analytics roughly 35% of U.S. farmers visit FBN.com to browse inputs, apply for financing, or look for information.

The Future of GCS

As a newly formed independent crop protection supplier, GCS has a portfolio of 250 registrations on post-patent products. The company will specialize in sourcing, managing first mile logistics, developing new products and regulatory aspects.

To lead the business and its team, Amy Yoder, most recently EVP of FBN’s livestock division, is incoming CEO.

“Global Crop Solutions launches today as an independent powerhouse,” said Yoder, in a press release. “For the first time, our extensive portfolio and efficient global supply chain are fully available to all partners— from retailers, to distributors, to co-ops. Our independence unlocks immense growth potential and allows us to be the most reliable and collaborative partner to the entire agricultural industry.”

All The Details: Inside John Deere’s New F8 and F9 Forage Harvesters

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 18:20:35 GMT

John Deere is rolling out two new forage harvesters for North American dairy producers and custom harvesting operations.

The brand new F8 and F9 Series feature three factory-installed operator cab options, a technology stack that will one day enable autonomous operation, and enhanced feed quality via an integrated inoculant dosing system.

How are F8 and F9 different?
The F8 Series (425PS to 645PS) is a narrow base model that takes the place of Deere’s 8000 Series forage harvester, while the F9 Series (700PS to 1020PS) replaces the 9000 Series. Within the F9 Series is the F9 1000, which is Deere’s largest forage harvest machine to date.

(Editor’s Note: “PS” stands for Pferdestärke, which is the German term for horsepower. PS to horsepower is not an apples-to-apples equal ratio. The F9 1000, for example, features 1020PS which equates to 1,006HP, according to the manufacturer.)

The F9 is available in two engine options:

John Deere 18X (no DEF required)
Liebherr V12 24L

It has five horsepower options, while the F8 comes with the JD14X engine and can be configured across six horsepower options.

The manufacturer last rolled out completely new forage harvesters in 2019.

How much will each new model cost?

The feed rolls on John Deere’s F8 and F9 forage harvesters have integrated metal detection to keep unwanted material out of your feed.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

John Deere is not sharing its pricing just yet, but the two new models are built at its Zweibrucken, Germany, factory. John Deere dealers will begin taking orders for the aggressively styled, technology-packed harvesters this fall, with final delivery in time for the 2026 forage harvesting season.

Deere representatives declined comment on what effect, if any, the still-developing U.S.and E.U. tariff situation could have on its launch plans.

Ahead of the launch, Farm Journal went to Madison, Wisc., to kick the tires and learn all about the new machines. The F8 and F9 harvesters we viewed and climbed into were the first finished production units off the factory line. Deere says several units will be field tested with U.S. customers ahead of the full fall launch.

“We’re really excited about the new cab and the technology we’ve added to these machines like central tire inflation, ground speed automation and the new kernel processing units,” says Bergen Nelson, go-to-market manager, combines and forage harvesters.

Here’s some of what we learned about the new forage harvesters:

(Matthew J. Grassi)

Cab Comforts: The same three operator cab options offered with Deere’s X and S Series combines — Select, Premium and Ultimate — are available on the F8 and F9 Series. A smoothly swiveling captain’s chair, as well as an all-new corner post display that shows real-time machine data, are among the additions. Operators who spend long hours in the cab will also appreciate integrated entertainment like SXM Radio and an optional mini fridge.

(Matthew J. Grassi )

Foundational Deere Tech Stack: Each new forage harvester in the series includes Deere’s baseline precision tech enablement stack — which consists of its G5 display, Starfire 7500 receiver and JDLink modem.

Central Tire Inflation System: A completely new feature (top left inset photo) within the G5 display allows the operator to adjust front tire PSI up or down from the cab.

John Deere Inoculant Dosing System 2.0

(Matthew J. Grassi)

Inoculant Dosing System 2.0: New on both the F8 and F9, a high-volume 85 gallon inoculant tank and integrated pump allow the user to accurately adjust silage inoculant dosage rates from the G5 display in the cab. The system is easy to pump and prime as well with the touch of a button located at the rear of the machine.

Ground Speed Automation: This cruise control-like option reads RPMs and throttles the harvester up or down based on crop conditions. For example, harvesting corn at higher moisture levels will increase power output, so the machine will automatically slow down to ensure it doesn’t plug up or do a sub-optimal job harvesting. This feature comes standard on all base models for both series and does not require a yearly subscription unlock or per-acre fee.

Pro Touch Harvest: Another new feature within the G5 display allows the operator to shift the machine from road transport mode to harvest mode in a single click. It can also be used to quickly engage AutoTrac and ground speed automation once the operator arrives at the edge of field.

This all-new XStream 305 Kernel Processing (KP) unit is built by Scherer in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

New Kernal Processing (KP) Units: The new harvesters feature two completely redesigned KP units, the Ultimate 250 (also made in Germany) and the Scherer XStream 305, which is made in Sioux Falls, S.D. An integrated winch and internal rail mounting system makes switching the machine from corn forage to hay forage in the field quick and simple. The number signifies each KP unit’s roll diameter width in millimeters.

“Both KPs will go in both machines and have four different roll options depending on how aggressive the dairyman wants their end feed quality to be,” says Shane Campbell, product marketing manager, forage harvesters.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

Integrated Harvest Lab 3000: This on-demand constituent sensing module pulls over 4,000 samples per second with +/- 2% accuracy, and John Deere says it can save dairy operations time and money versus collecting and sending samples to a lab. The sensor tech (available as an add-on option) enables accurate measurement and documentation of dry matter, starch, protein, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber for both harvested forage and manure. The data can be stored, organized and shared via Deere’s Operations Center. Within Operations Center, users can take geo-referenced data and build out spatial starch content — as well as moisture and protein — maps for hybrid selection and fertility management. Because if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.

Active Fill Control 3.0: Using sensors and cameras on the grain spout, this tech feature automatically detects the trailer or grain cart next to the forage harvester and begins filling it with a preselected fill strategy. This reduces the number of times an operator has to adjust the spout manually and also lessens fatigue and neck strain, according to Deere.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

New Operating Modes: Several of the models within the F9 Series offer what Deere is calling its “Engine Power Plus” feature — which gives a sizeable horsepower boost when the machines senses it needs a little extra chopping power to the harvesting head. There is also an ECO mode that can be toggled on when the machines don’t need the extra torque.

Ease-Of-Access: Both models have side and rear panels that easily open to grant full access to the inner workings of the machines, making the new forage harvesters much easier to service and maintain without a lift or other heavy specialized equipment. The machine is setup so techs and mechanically-minded farmers will not have to climb underneath it to perform daily maintenance.

“At the end of the day, we know it’s all about the cow, and these machines will put out quality feed,” Nelson says. “We’ll have these out at the farm shows this summer, including Farm Progress Show, World Ag Expo, World Dairy Expo and the U.S. Custom Harvesters Convention.”

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New Holland Launches Autonomous Baling Technology And Mobile App, Marks 50 Years Of Baler Innovation With Brand Refresh

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 20:35:53 GMT

New Holland is steering toward autonomous baling with the introduction of IntelliSense Bale Automation.

A novel technology, IntelliSense Bale Automation reportedly transforms the way customers and operators approach large square baling by delivering an automated solution for farmers.

The new system is compatible with Class 3 ISOBUS tractors — specifically, the T7 LWB, T7 HD and T8 from New Holland — and model year 2022 and model year 2023 New Holland BigBaler Large Square Balers.

Immediate integration is available now as a New Holland dealer-installed service. Starting in 2025, customers will have the opportunity to place orders for it as a factory-fit option.

“For large square baling operations, it’s an indispensable asset for their future by improving bale harvesting while helping them meet operational demands,” says Brad Littlefield, precision marketing manager, dairy and livestock segment for New Holland.

Lasering in on Windrows With Precision

(Farm Journal)

IntelliSense Bale Automation is an automated baling system that focuses on feedrate and swath guidance by combining two operator-assisted baling modes:

SmartSteer swath guidance acts as autosteering for automated navigation of the tractor and baler along the windrow.
IntelliCruise II controls tractor speed, responding to variation in material feedrate into the baler. The operator sets the number of slices per bale target and the maximum speed limit.

The cornerstone of IntelliSense Bale Automation is integrated LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensing technology, believed by New Holland to be the first application of its kind in ag. Installed on the front end of a tractor cab roof, it emits laser pulses to calculate distance based on reflections from the windrow.

The new system aims to increase four elements critical to operations and operators:

Increased baling productivity.
Improved bale quality.
Reduced fuel consumption.
Enhanced operator comfort.

“At the heart of our design is a commitment to putting operators first and creating technology that addresses their most important needs,” Littlefield says.

Rolling Through Time: 50 Years of New Holland Round Balers, Plus A New Mobile App

Beginning in 2024, New Holland is steering toward a unified brand image and global identity with the transition of its haytool styling to a striking yellow. The yellow transition begins with commercial haytools for late model year 2024, then unfolds in model year 2025 to include Pro-Belt round balers.

“This shift marks our dedication to pushing boundaries and providing farmers with tools to not only stand out in the field but also improve their efficiency and experience,” states Carlo Lambro, brand president of New Holland.

New Holland has also unveiled its latest innovation, the Bale Manager mobile app. This technology allows operators and customers to control and visualize baling data from their smart devices, including:

Store data.
Monitor baling activity.
Simplify accounts receivable.
Export data.
Search through completed jobs.

The app is available for download on the App Store and Google Play platforms (with the necessary components readily accessible from a local New Holland dealer).

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of its round balers, a year-long celebration is in store. To participate, New Holland round baler owners can submit their story and a photo of their baler online or by scanning a QR code at their local New Holland dealership for a chance to win a commemorative prize pack.

Please visit your local New Holland dealer to learn more about the Round Baler 50th Anniversary contests, prizes, and enhanced warranty offers for owners.

Agriculture Technology Development Takes Partnerships

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 04:17:20 GMT

Developing new technology isn’t as simple as coming up with an idea. It takes years of work, access to funding and collaboration.

The Sprint Accelerator has served as an avenue for startup technology companies to connect with other entrepreneurs since 2014. This year, Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) joined Sprint in sponsoring a 90-day agriculture technology incubator. Four companies participated in the 2017 Sprint Accelerator, see below for details.

The Program’s Benefits

The program exceeded expectations of DFA, says Kevin Strathman, DFA senior vice president of finance. “What we brought were connections.” Through the process My Dairy Dashboard formed a partnership with DFA to build an enhanced version of myDFA, a website where DFA members can access information on their farms.

The portal enables users to access milk production and weather data from the cooperative, all being displayed through charts and graphs. DFA members who want to upgrade the experience to include on-farm data from their herd or feed management would be able to subscribe themselves and combine it through myDFA.

“They’ll able to pull that data together to give them a richer environment to see trends and make decisions,” says Mitch Norby, CEO of My Dairy Dashboard.

What The Future Holds

In the future Norby hopes to work with other companies to help get more data into producers’ hands, similar to what is being done with DFA to increase the automation of data collection. Having data collection companies like HerdDogg and AgVoice participate in the Sprint Accelerator opened the door to building those types of connections.

“We’ve bounced ideas off each other and there are opportunities as we move forward to work with them,” Norby says.

HerdDogg works as a “Facebook for cows” says Melissa Brandao, CEO of HerdDogg. The tags gather information from cattle that walk within 30' of a Bluetooth “dog bone” tag reader or a smartphone.

Through the program HerdDogg is conducting research with DFA, Sprint and Colorado State University. One goal is raising conception rates by improving heat detection.

“This program in all earnestness has been a game changer for HerdDogg,” Brandao says.

AgVoice made its first venture into dairy, having previously been focused in fruit and vegetable markets. Now, AgVoice has found uses in dairy such as breeding cows, pregnancy checks and herd health inspections without having to write anything down.

“It is interesting that all of us complement each other, we don’t compete with each other,” says Aaron Gobin, co-founder of AgVoice.

The Sprint Accelerator will continue next year with an agriculture focus, along with a food component. Sprint and DFA will return as sponsors with CoBank as a supporting partner.

Note: This article appears in the October 2017 magazine issue of Dairy Herd Management.

New App to Help Wisconsin Farmers Estimate Corn Prices

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 03:01:12 GMT

As Wisconsin farmers plan for this year’s corn crop harvest, producers can now use a phone app to estimate what price they would receive for animal feed.

Two University of Wisconsin-Extension agents Greg Blonde and Ryan Sterry have developed the Corn Silage Pricing App, which uses data from national and local reports to estimate prices, Wisconsin Public Radio reported .

Farmers can either sell corn as a grain on the commodity market or turn the plant into silage for cattle feed.

Blonde said grain prices are typically set by the market, but farmers must calculate their own silage price. That process typically involves spreadsheets and formulas, which can be difficult to do away from a computer.

“There’s no established market to be able to go to and say, ‘I wonder what corn silage is trading for today on the futures exchange’ like we can with corn and soybeans,” Blonde said. “You’re left with some mathematical gymnastics.”

Sterry said the app gives farmers the portability needed to discuss prices anywhere.

“We’re not trying to set the market for corn silage, we’re trying to give a range and we’re going to let the farmers take that as a starting point,” Sterry said.

Tech Talk: How Smart Is Your Phone?

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 02:37:57 GMT

By Dino Giacomazzi

Dave: “Hello, HAL. Do you read me, HAL?”
HAL: “Affirmative, Dave. I read you.”
Dave: “Open the pod bay doors, HAL.”
HAL: “I’m sorry, Dave, I’m afraid I can’t do that.”

In 1968, in the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey, director Stanley Kubrick brought to life a future in which HAL, a computer, believed itself to be alive.

While 2011 passed without humans traveling to Jupiter, 2012 is starting to look a lot like a science fiction movie. Smartphones have put powerful computing capabilities into the hands of regular people, and dairy producers are no exception.

A smartphone is a device that combines the features of a cell phone with those of a personal digital assistant (PDA). I used to carry around a cell phone and a Palm Pilot. It was a great day in 2002 when Handspring combined the two into the Palm Treo.

Then, Apple revolutionized the smartphone in 2007 with the touch-screen iPhone. Recently Google has taken the lead with the Android operating system.

So which smartphone is best for you? Androids and iPhones are very similar devices. They have touch screens, run apps, play music and video, and take pictures—and yes, you can make phone calls too. The difference comes down to simplicity versus choice.

Apple produces both the hardware and the operating system for its phones. This gives it total control over the device, which generally results in a more stable environment and user-friendly experience. Apple’s focus is simplicity and consistency. The downside of Apple’s system is lack of handset choice and price.

Android is an open-source operating system that Google has made available to hardware manufacturers like Samsung, Motorola and HTC that produce a wide range of phones.

The advantage of this system is choice. You can buy an Android-enabled phone with a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and price points. While Android software is very customizable, the downside is that Androids are not always as stable or easy to use.

My recommendation is this: If you want a simple system that is easy to learn and fairly error-free, spend the extra money and get an iPhone. If you want a larger screen and/or prefer Google’s online apps like Gmail and Google Calendar, shop around to find the right Android-enabled phone for you.

Once you discover all the amazing things you can do with a smartphone, you will wonder how you ever got along without it. I guarantee it will make you more productive on the dairy and farm.
If you ask Siri, the talking digital assistant on the iPhone 4S, to “open the pod bay doors,” her response may make you laugh. But remember, humans in Cupertino, Calif., programmed her responses. She doesn’t really mean it—yet!

Dairy-Specific App

One of the most compelling reasons for a dairy producer to choose an Android phone is for the Pocket Cow Card app, Android’s companion to Valley Agricultural Software’s DairyComp 305.

My suspicion is that most dairy and agricultural software developers will be writing for Android in the future because it is open-source.

Reviews of smartphones:

Dino Giacomazzi is the fourth genera-tion to manage his family’s dairy farm near Hanford, Calif. Contact him at techtalkdairy@gmail.com .