Transforming Small-Scale Farming: A New Era of Hay Steaming
By: Jay Feldman
Green Acre Services introduces a product which improves farming efficiency and livestock nourishment. The small baler steamer stands as a pivotal innovation, blending quality optimization, profitability, structural integrity, and user convenience, aimed at transforming small/med-scale farming operations.
Destry Clark, the visionary behind Green Acre Services, recalls, “While sitting in the tractor baling my dry hay, I pictured other farms using steamers on a larger scale. I needed one specifically sized for small two-string balers, something economical and productive.” This moment of clarity led to creating a solution for smaller farming enterprises.
The small baler steamer enhances agricultural practices and animal health. By adding ideal moisture levels through steaming, this device potentially locks in vital nutrients and eliminates harmful germs without compromising hay’s structural integrity. This process preserves quality and reduces spoilage—a significant advantage for farmers aiming to maximize yield longevity.
Steamed hay can maintain its shape and reduce dust exposure during handling and storage, potentially improving livestock health. Dust in animals’ feed often worsens respiratory issues, so steamed hay can lead to noticeable improvements in overall herd health.
Operationally, the small baler steamer exemplifies efficiency and flexibility. Designed for all-day baling operations without sacrificing performance or fuel consumption, it allows farmers to work within flexible hours—optimizing workflows according to individual schedules and weather conditions.
Ease of use is a key feature. Recognizing that adoption rates depend on seamless technology integration into existing routines, Green Acre Services ensured their steamer is user-friendly, minimizing learning curves and easing new machinery introduction.
Economically, the small baler steamer is invaluable. By boosting hay quality and reducing spoilage, farms can expect enhanced profitability through improved animal health and increased yields. Extended baling hours translate into reduced labor costs and less reliance on heavy machinery, streamlining expenses without sacrificing output quality.
The product, designed and priced for the 2-string market, adds moisture to dry hay during baling, can increase product quality and extend the farmer’s operating window. In the western United States, where the weather often dictates baling, the steamer adds artificial dew, making the baling process more predictable and reducing machinery needs.
Green Acre Services’ steamer is compatible with almost any 2-string baler/tractor setup. Sized for 50 lb. two-string bales and capable of accommodating 75 and 80 lb. bales, it can run at a capacity of around 300 to 400 bales an hour, pushing moisture levels from 8-10% up to 15-18%. The steamer includes two diesel boilers with four ports each, offering 12 valve combinations to control steam levels, and features a moisture monitor for live readouts during baling.
Clark explains, “While steaming your hay, you have the potential for about a 15% increase in weight. With higher leaf retention, you could see up to a $20 per ton increase in product value. Depending on your operation size, a 15% weight increase could significantly reduce the need for machinery.”
In short, the small baler steamer reduces machinery and labor needs while increasing hay weight and quality, providing a substantial return on investment. After extensive testing, Green Acre Services is now accepting pre-orders for the 2-string steamer, eager for farmers to experience the benefits of this innovative product. For more information, visit their Facebook page (@greenacreservices.inc) or their website (greenacresteamers.com/).
Published by: Martin De Juan
