Farmers Hot Line - National April 2026 | Page 22

Fields & Inputs
Forward contracting: Hedge your fuel by working with suppliers to lock in fuel prices for the upcoming season. This can help manage the volatility of the market.
Plan strategically: Scheduling fuel-heavy tasks( such as grain drying, for example) during periods of lower energy prices, when possible, can help reduce costs.
Consider alternative energy sources: Investing in fuelefficient machinery or exploring alternative fuel sources for farm operations may involve a larger initial outlay of funds, but could ultimately pay dividends in the long run. These alternatives allow farmers to produce their own fuel, enhancing sustainability and reducing input costs. Let’ s look at a few of them.
• Electric tractors and equipment: Battery-powered rechargeable tools and tractors that are designed for tasks such as plowing and mowing, offer lower maintenance and noise reduction.
• Hydrogen fuel cells: Fuel cells provide electricity for machines and emit only water vapor. They are suitable for heavier machinery with increased efficiency.
• Biofuels: Biodiesel and ethanol, which are derived from vegetable oils or animal fats, can be used in existing diesel engines without significant modifications.
• Solar-powered machinery: Solar panels can power small automated vehicles, irrigation systems and charging stations for electric equipment.
• Compressed natural gas( CNG): A cleaner burning
alternative to diesel that can be retrofitted onto existing tractors.
Planning fuel and fertilizer input costs allows farmers to lock in lower prices during market dips, optimize application rates and significantly increase profit margins— often saving more than $ 20 to $ 30 per acre. These strategies provide a hedge against volatility, minimize waste and improve overall operational efficiency.
Diesel
Fuel Problems? Frosty Weather Can Cause Gelling for Blended, # 1, # 2, and Farm Blended Fuels
STOP FUEL GELLING Keep storage tank flowing and Engines running. No Additives. No Blending.
Featured Products:
Plugged Diesel Fuel Filters FOR BULK STORAGE TANKS in cold weather are kept open and fuel flowing with the Universal Bulk Tank Filter Preheater wrapped around the filter. 120v
Vehicle, Compressor and Generator diesel fuel problems in cold weather like hard starting, low power, no power solved with Universal Fuel Filter Preheaters wrapping around the filter to keep the diesel fuel flowing. 12v and 24v and 120v and 240v combination voltages 12v / 120 and 24v / 120.
Cold Weather Oil Problems- solved with Universal Peel N Stick Preheaters for oil pan & hydraulic tank & gear box. Maintains a steady hot oil temperature in the housing during coldest weather. 120v and 240v
sales @ etipinc. com www. etipinc. com
763-785-1382 www. dbmower. com
630-966-8992 • Fax: 630-801-9569
sales @ etipinc. com • www. etipinc. com
256 PO Hanover Box 83, Rd North, Lewistown Aurora, MT IL 60542 59457( Employee Veteran Owned. Small American Business Made)
22 | 800-247-2000 | 515-955-1600 | April 2026