A Guide to Buying a New or Used Tractor
Next to land, tractors and machinery comprise the largest outlay of capital for any farmer. Whether choosing a new or used make and model, it is important to match needs and wants to the available funds, the skill level of the operator, and the scale of the operation.
In this webinar session, Shane LaBrake offered many ideas and tips to help with decision-making around tractor purchases. Topics included:
- Consideration of how each farmer’s situation — the type of operation; skill level with machinery and maintenance; appropriate size machinery for the scale of the operation; purchasing funds available or willingness to finance — affect tractor purchase options.
- Pros and cons of purchasing a new tractor vs. a used tractor.
- A review key examination points in assessing a used tractor.
About the Presenter: Shane LaBrake is an Agricultural Consultant and a trainer/teacher of 
agricultural skills. He managed the Accokeek Foundation’s Community Supported Agriculture program at the Ecosystem Farm from 1994 to 2007, where he was deeply involved in developing methods and curriculum for new and beginner farmer training. Since 2006, he has presented two-day workshops over 20 times in Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Virginia. Shane is continuously tweaking the workshop material to better serve a new generation of tractor jockeys.
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