Large vehicles and intricate machinery are a normal part of farm life, especially when it comes to growing commercial crops. Combine harvesters cut, gather, and separate crops for easy harvesting. Hay balers come behind and turn leftover material into large bales for feed or bedding. Large tractors with nozzle attachments spray herbicide across fields to prevent weeds and other unwanted vegetation.
Farming takes a lot of horsepower, but it makes the process easier and more efficient. That being said, you must take the time to care for your machinery. Not only will it give your vehicles a longer lifespan, but it will protect your crops as well. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has some very strict regulations when it comes to agriculture. Read on to learn why that this is so important and how you can help prevent crop contamination on your farm.
First is the matter of weeds. When farming to sell at a profit, it’s good business to ensure that your fields are free of weeds that may hinder the crops’ growth. Water, sunlight, and soil are vital to a plant’s survival, and weeds may choke out the competition when it comes to claiming these resources. Unfortunately, herbicides can only do so much to keep these menaces under control. If the seeds were to latch onto the wheels or undercarriage of a farm machine, they may end up spreading and populating another field entirely.
Herbicide may pose another potential threat to your crops. Some plants are very sensitive to the harsh chemicals, formulated to keep weeds and other intrusive species at bay. Even trace amounts of herbicide can affect some of the most delicate crops. Sprayers should be washed thoroughly, inside and out, before moving between fields. By forgoing a regular cleaning, you risk the severe effects of cross-contamination. So, we’ve established that cleaning the farm equipment is essential to thriving crops and a successful harvest. But how can you possibly clean your machinery thoroughly enough to reduce the risk of contamination? The good news is that you don’t have to do it by hand. Manual cleaning is slow and prone to error, but Neptune offers the perfect solution! Our robust wheel wash systems are built for maximum efficiency. They’re tough, reliable, and incredibly versatile, depending on your needs. Protect your crops from contamination, and invest in the biosecurity and peace of mind that comes with our automated wheel wash systems. Get started with a Quick Quote from Neptune Wash Solutions, or contact your local dealer today to learn more!