Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
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Today we're putting our brand-new John Deere W235R swather to its first real test as we tackle 250 acres of first-cutting alfalfa. We weren't planning to buy a new swather this year, but a deal from the dealership changed our minds.
This crop comes with a unique challenge—we're actually trying to produce lower-quality hay for an elk ranch, while still making sure we have a backup market if it grades too high. Along the way we're dialing in the new machine, adjusting settings with help from the John Deere dealer, and seeing how it performs in some of the heaviest, most laid-down hay we've ever cut.
With drought conditions limiting water across the West, every cutting counts this season. Hopefully the weather cooperates so we can get this crop dried, baled, and into the stack.
Thanks for watching! If you enjoy following real life on our Idaho farm, be sure to subscribe and come along as we grow potatoes, wheat, hay, and tackle whatever farming throws at us next.
Like • Comment • Subscribe for more weekly farm videos!
Thanks for Grüns for sponsoring this video! Get up to 52% off! Just click here gruns.yt.link/jYpTUKG.
Today we're putting our brand-new John Deere W235R swather to its first real test as we tackle 250 acres of first-cutting alfalfa. We weren't planning to buy a new swather this year, but a deal from the dealership changed our minds.
This crop comes with a unique challenge—we're actually trying to produce lower-quality hay for an elk ranch, while still making sure we have a backup market if it grades too high. Along the way we're dialing in the new machine, adjusting settings with help from the John Deere dealer, and seeing how it performs in some of the heaviest, most laid-down hay we've ever cut.
With drought conditions limiting water across the West, every cutting counts this season. Hopefully the weather cooperates so we can get this crop dried, baled, and into the stack.
Thanks for watching! If you enjoy following real life on our Idaho farm, be sure to subscribe and come along as we grow potatoes, wheat, hay, and tackle whatever farming throws at us next.
Like • Comment • Subscribe for more weekly farm videos!
