As we’ve been preparing the fields for planting this spring, one of the important things that we need to do is pick rocks. By picking rocks off the field we prevent damage to our machinery.
We planted 40 acres of alfalfa which will provide hay and haylage to our cows, which is in a four year rotation. The first year, called the seeding year, plus an additional three crop years. On the alfalfa ground, we pick any rocks that are golf ball size or bigger because haying machinery runs closer to the ground when cut (think of your lawnmower) and is more susceptible to rock damage.
On the ground that will be planted into corn we pick any rocks that are softball size or bigger.
Rocks loaded into the Gator.
Meyer Dairy 