Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/918682
WWW.POTATOGROWER.COM 67 Shenandoh will save about $10,000 a year by using propane compared with diesel. BUILDING HEAT Propane-powered ag heating is a convenient solution to the consistent, comfortable temperatures and clean air required by livestock, poultry and greenhouse plants. Propane provides more even, precise heat, is cost-effective, and is a cleaner, non-toxic fuel that doesn't contaminate groundwater or soil—making it safe to use around animals and plants. Swift Greenhouses operates two 30,000-gallon tanks on its 4½-acre operation as well as propane-powered boilers, which heat water that is pumped through coils in the concrete floor, creating radiant heat throughout the room. Temperature sensors check the air around the coils, ensuring plants are at an ideal temperature for each stage of growth. Swift Greenhouses grows roughly 1,300 varieties of perennials and herbs, requiring a diverse range of optimal temperatures for each type of plant and its specific stage of growth. Ideal temperatures also vary by time of day, another capability of easily controlled, precise propane heating equipment. FLAME WEEDING Propane flame weeding systems are a 100 percent organic solution for weed control that works in multiple growth stages and eliminates the need for herbicides. Instead, propane flame weeding systems remove weeds by using short jets of flame between the rows. The intense, focused heat bursts plant cells, causing weeds to wither and die without harming crops. And unlike chemical herbicides, there's no resistance to flame weeding, allowing growers to return to fields almost immediately. Propane flame weeding also allows growers to avoid expensive, non-selective chemicals or costly, labor-intensive hand weeding. Lee Newman, owner of Newman Farms near Sumter, S.C., is constantly analyzing and searching for the most effective, cost- efficient means of running his organic farm—which includes organic tobacco, corn, soybeans, wheat and cotton. Because his products are certified organic, all farming techniques must be meticulously evaluated. "Controlling weeds in an organic environment where you can't use any herbicide is a challenge farmers have struggled with for years," says Newman. "It was hard to believe a propane weed flamer could really remove weeds in the way I required, but I was quickly amazed at its capabilities. When set up properly, it will kill 100 percent of weeds." Before flame weeding, Newman Farms would remove weeds by hand, which was #1 In Sizing Accuracy With No Bruise 97% accuracy is why so many AgraSizers have been delivered to growers and packing sheds. Call Ralph Smith and fi nd out how an Agrasizer can help your bottom line. AGRASIZER, INC. "Thanks to the Potato Industry for all your support over the last 18 years..." ✔ Increased profi ts ✔ Less bruise ✔ Increased production ✔ Reduction in labor 80" Stainless Warehouse Now Available (208) 313-7377 • (208) 528-0902 Fax: (208) 528-7348 www.agrasizer.com • zlld@cableone.net 80" Stainless Warehouse Now Available 169948AgrSizq13s.indd 1 11/8/17 10:18 AM three to four times as expensive when compared to running the propane system. With lower carbon content than gasoline and diesel, clean propane is also non-toxic and insoluble in water—making it safe in contact with aquifers, streams and soil. FARM FUEL OF THE FUTURE Because propane farm equipment is EPA- and CARB-certified, built from the ground up to run on propane, and operates on an independent system to avoid grid- related power interruptions or gas line fluctuations, it is a convenient solution to meet environmental regulations and gain control over your farm. As an increasing number of farm applications and new generation, innovative propane- powered equipment becomes available, propane is becoming the go-to fuel to power entire farms. To learn more about the variety of propane-powered farm equipment available and to view video testimonials, visit www.propanecandothat.com.