Bradley Farms uses cutting-edge technology to increase efficiency, reduce waste and preserve the soil.

Precision Farming – As the name implies, this technique allows us to calculate the exact amount of product (such as fertilizer or seed) for the exact location in the field. We use GPS, auto-steer and soil mapping as part of our precision farming plan to make sure that we use just the right mixture of seed, fertilizer and pest control.

• Corn Planter – loaded with GPS and swath control. This ensures that there is no overlap in planting making the process more efficient while reducing waste and fuel.
• Grid Sampling – provides a “map” of the field and the different nutrient needs within the area. For instance, one part of a field might need a certain amount of fertilizer to make up for what it lacks, while another area of the same field has enough naturally. Grid sampling allows us to program our equipment to increase or decrease the amount of product based on need. This helps efficiency and ensures that we only use what we need and no more.
• Combine – At Bradley Farms, our John Deere Combine is equipped with Auto-steer (among other gadgets). As the name implies, it basically steers itself. This is useful in times of operator fatigue – but it’s most useful for efficiency because it prevents any overlap, which means we use less fuel and reduce our time in the field.

Strip Tilling – This technology is implemented in the fall and uses a computer to control the flow of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium into the field after the crop has been harvested in preparation for the crop to be planted the following spring. Strip tilling injects nutrients into the ground using individual “knives” on the machine.

Strip tilling is expensive, but it pays dividends in the future in fuel and environmental savings. This practice eliminates the need to   chisel plow – or work the ground after the crop has been harvested. Reducing plowing means less soil erosion and wind erosion. Injecting fertilizer rather than spraying or spreading means less runoff into area rivers and streams.

Weed and Pest Control – Just like weeds and pests are a problem in a garden, they are a problem for farmers. Weeds can “choke” out crops and dramatically reduce yield. Pests like bugs, worms and plant diseases can completely ruin a crop. Once planted, we use a variety of techniques to control pests and weeds – including spraying. Our sprayer has a computer program that controls chemical flow. This ensures that only the correct amount is administered, and that there is no overlapping. Less chemical applied means greater efficiency and is more environmentally friendly.