December 17, 2007 - Adding to an already extensive line-up of air-seeding tools, John Deere now provides customers an efficient, environmentally-friendly seeding solution with hydraulic-tyne technology on the new 1870 Air Hoe Drills.

"Growers told us they wanted an air-seeding tool with very accurate seed and fertiliser placement," says Royce Bell, Tactical Segment Manager, John Deere Limited. "We invested in new technology, the Conserva Pak hydraulic shank opener, which does an exceptional job in placing seed and fertiliser at a more accurate and consistent depth. The result is more accurate placement of fertiliser, reduced seed, fertiliser and input costs, and consistent, uniform emergence throughout the field for higher yields. This translates to a greater potential for improved income, while optimising conditions for responsible stewardship of the soil."

The 1870 Air Hoe Drill is available in two widths, the three-section 12 m (40-ft.) model, and the five-section 17 m (56-ft.) model. Transport width for both models is 6 m (20-ft.). A rigid, three-rank frame provides strength and support for even and consistent depth and yet allows the openers to follow contours and flex with field conditions to deliver the seed at the prescribed depth.

"The real story on the 1870 seeders is the independently controlled hydraulic shank opener, Conserva Pak, which enables the placement of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, and sulphur-based fertilisers up to 102 mm (4 in.) away from the seed," explains Bell. "This positive vertical and horizontal separation of fertiliser and seed eliminates seeding damage caused by some fertiliser forms. This translates to more efficient placement of fertiliser, decreased seed damage, and optimised crop yields."

The new Conserva Pak shanks use simple and adjustable hydraulic accumulator force for accurate fertiliser placement down to 152 mm (6 in.) deep, even in variable field conditions. There is low soil and residue disturbance with a very positive closing system by the seed opener to ensure good seed to soil contact.

"Studies have also shown that direct seeding with the Conserva Pak system reduces wind and water erosion while building organic matter," emphasizes Bell. "Being able to seed directly into stubble and residue leads to improved storage of moisture from rain or snow, which provides good moisture to the crop. The system is environmentally-friendly while increasing the potential for yields."

This environmentally-friendly system builds organic matter and sequesters CO2. This increases available nitrogen allowing it to be mineralised into a form available to the crop, which means less run-off or leaching.

Seed depth consistency is also improved on the 1870 Air Hoe Drills because the hydraulic accumulators permit separate control of down force of the fertiliser shank and the press wheel/seed opener. The Conserva Pak opener achieves consistent depth with an even amount of soil placed over the seed in a single or paired-row setting – even in variable seeding conditions.

"Because the 1870 Air Hoe Drill must handle more residue while seeding, we've designed plenty of under-rank clearance, 572 mm (22.5 in.) and plenty of spacing between openers, 914 mm (36 in.)," emphasizes Bell. "The design of the hydraulic shank also contributes to residue flow by allowing plenty of vertical clearance. Overall, this machine is designed for improved residue flow which assists in consistent, even seeding throughout the field."

Another feature is that the easily adjustable openers, with independent downforce can be set between 45 - 363 kg (100 - 800 pounds) with a trip clearance to meet seeding conditions. The adjustable breakout force is ideal for rocky conditions.

"As another benefit to our customers, we've designed the air seeding packages to be fully compatible with all Green Star 2™ precision guidance and map-based prescription seeding, fertilising, and field documentation systems," concludes Bell. "These systems, integrated with the Conserva Pak hydraulic shank openers, give us the most productive and environmentally-friendly air hoe drills we've ever designed and built."

For more information on John Deere products visit our Web site at www.JohnDeere.com.au or FREECALL 1800 800 981 in Australia or 0800 303 100 in New Zealand to contact your local John Deere dealer.

John Deere (Deere & Company - NYSE: DE) is the world's leading provider of advanced products and services for agriculture and forestry and a major provider of advanced products and services for construction, lawn and turf care, landscaping and irrigation. John Deere also provides financial services worldwide and manufactures and markets engines used in heavy equipment. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has extended its heritage of integrity, quality, commitment and innovation around the globe.