Contents
January
2026
Volume 52 • Number 1
From the Editor
6
A heartfelt message on why farming is more than a job— and why Farmers Hot Line is committed to serving the people who keep America fed.
Equipment Showcase
9
How years of direct feedback from farmers and dealers helped shape Kubota’ s new Grand L70 compact utility tractor, from cab comfort to smarter technology.
Machines and Maintenance
21
Farmers face a stable but elevated equipment market in 2026, making disciplined decisions based on total ownership cost and value more important than chasing discounts.
Sponsored Content
25
Guessing grain levels can cost time, money and safety. Discover how radar-based inventory management is changing how facilities see inside the bin.
Feature
Escalating wolf – livestock
14 conflict is spreading beyond ranch fences, impacting families, schools and the long-term viability of rural communities.
The Dirt
A monthly breakdown of ag news, policy shifts and rural realities.
33
departments
Dealers����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 40 Classifieds��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 44 Comic��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 46
on
the cover
Dedicated
to Serving the US Market
Catalyst Communications Network 2026. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recorded or otherwise without the prior written permission of Catalyst Communications Network.
F L
The information and advertising set forth herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Catalyst Communications Network(“ Publisher”) however, does not warrant complete accuracy of such information and assumes no responsibility for any consequences arising from the use thereof or reliance thereon. Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement or space reservation at any time without notice and for any reason. Publisher shall not be liable for any costs or damages if for any reason it fails to publish an advertisement. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of their respective advertisements appearing in this publication and Publisher is not responsible or liable in any manner for inaccuracies, false statements or any material in such advertisement infringing upon the intellectual property rights of others. Advertisements appearing in this publication are not necessarily the views or opinions expressed by Publisher.
Articles that appear in this, and / or any Farmers Hot Line publication, are not necessarily the views and opinions expressed by the Farmers Hot Line staff and / or Catalyst Communications Network.
Circulation: Farmers Hot Line publication is sent to farmers and ranchers who are actively involved in farming along with bulk issues distributed to farm equipment dealers, supply and elevators.
Sponsored by
Subscription 800-247-2000
Subscribe to our free digital newsletter today to receive the latest issues, updates and more delivered directly to your inbox!
FARMERS HOT LINE ® SUPPORTS: contact us
Have Questions? Need guidance on the industry? While we don’ t endorse companies, products or services, we’ re happy to connect you with helpful information and contacts. Reach out to us at info @ farmershotline. com
Sales Department: sales @ farmershotline. com Editorial Team: editorial @ farmershotline. com
4 | 800-247-2000 | 515-955-1600 | January 2026