A lot of attention is turning to the use of biomass these days with at least three commercial-level programs going that can turn biomass into ethanol; but there's always been some value to corn stalks if you could bale them efficiently as cow fodder or bedding. Glenvar has a new Bale Direct System which provides single-pass harvest and baling of biomass using a large square baler linked directly to the combine.

Single-pass system turns allows for grain harvest and biomass baling.

As shown, the company has a 3-ft. by 4-ft. Massey Ferguson baler linked to the combine, material moves from the combine to the baler without touching the ground. In a single pass you get grain in the combine and material other than grain in the bale. A hydraulic pump is mounted on the combine and drives a hydraulic motor on the baler. The system is suitable for Class 8 and larger combines with four-wheel drive. The baled MOG provides an added income stream for farmers while harvesting grain without interruption.

The combine/baler system offers a range of benefits according to Glenvar:

* harvest grain and bale biomass in a single pass.

* produce clean, solid bales easy to transport and store.

* The Bale Direct System saves fuel, labor and time.

* Reduces field traffic and compaction versus conventional systems.

* Baler can be converted back to pull-type operation for work with a tractor.

* Kits are available for popular combines and no permanent modifications are needed.

Kits are manufactured in the United States by GK Machine, Inc., in Donald, Oregon. You can visit gkmachine.com or learn more from glenvarbaledirect.com.au.