Farmers and custom applicators are finding that using a mix of equipment is key to keeping up with the demands of modern crop management. For operations across Iowa, combining Hagie’s front-mounted boom sprayers with John Deere machines outfitted with See & Spray Ultimate technology is proving to be an effective way to handle a wide variety of application needs. The strategy not only boosts field efficiency but also plays a role in reducing chemical use and controlling costs as equipment prices continue to rise.
Brandon Fonken, who farms near Jewell, Iowa, and manages a custom spraying business covering over 65,000 acres a year, says Hagie sprayers are his go-to when it comes to navigating tight field edges and complex terrain. The front-mounted boom allows for better visibility when working along fence lines or backing into corners, making the job smoother and more precise. On the other hand, Fonken relies on his John Deere sprayers for advanced precision work, especially when applying herbicides using See & Spray technology. This combination of equipment allows him to lay down a residual product while simultaneously targeting weeds with a contact spray application.
Having adopted See & Spray technology several years ago, Fonken has seen firsthand how precision spraying can cut herbicide use without sacrificing performance. Despite some industry hesitation toward adopting these systems, he has found significant benefits in herbicide savings and sees this as a step toward better environmental stewardship. For Fonken, reducing the amount of herbicide applied isn’t just a cost-saving measure; it’s a responsibility to help protect water quality, especially in a state where nitrate levels and environmental concerns are often in the spotlight.
Fonken also addresses concerns over Deere’s subscription model, which has been a sticking point for some in agriculture. Rather than viewing it as an extra fee, he sees it as a practical way to keep the latest technology affordable. By spreading out the investment through a subscription, applicators can access ongoing improvements to the system without bearing an overwhelming upfront cost. Fonken believes this model ensures that the technology stays current and effective, preventing expensive equipment from becoming outdated too quickly.
Looking at the future of custom applications, Fonken believes the cost of ownership for advanced sprayers will drive more farmers to hire out their spraying needs. He’s already seeing larger farmers consider whether it’s more efficient to work with applicators who own cutting-edge equipment like See & Spray. If the savings in herbicide can offset application costs, Fonken sees a model where custom applicators take on more of the workload, allowing farmers to allocate their resources elsewhere.
As growers look for ways to improve efficiency and sustainability, Hagie and John Deere sprayers continue to provide flexible solutions for every acre. To learn more about how these machines can benefit your operation, visit your local John Deere dealer and explore both sprayer lines.
