Timer-Controlled Portabel Lovestock Feeder

Timer-Controlled Portabel Lovestock Feeder LIVESTOCK Beef 18-1-12 "Our new battery-operated livestock feeder lets you automatically feed livestock small doses of feed several times a day, resulting in much better feed efficiency and reduced labor," says Loren Vigesaa, Sheyenne Manor Cattle Co., Cooperstown, N. Dak. The portable "Automatic Chuckwagon" consists of a 16-ft. long steel hopper mounted on steel legs. A timer and a 12-volt D.C. motor mount at one end of the hopper. The motor chain-drives the feed auger inside the hopper which discharges feed at predetermined intervals through holes spaced evenly along the bottom of the hopper. Animals have access to feed on both sides. "It's designed for the small feedlot opera-tor or the average size cow-calf operator who can't justify the cost of large computerized feeding systems," says Vigesaa. "It's battery operated so you can use it as an automatic feeding system in remote areas where no electric power is available. "We originally designed it to provide supplement feed in late summer to our yearling steers and heifers on pasture. We didn't want to have to drive out every day to hand feed them extra grain. The 12-volt deep-cycle battery lasts about two months running twice a day without having to be charged, even at temperatures down to 30 below. The timer lets us decide exactly how much feed to provide. Feeding small doses keeps livestock from overeating and improves feed efficiency. "In tests at North Dakota State University, calves fed several times a day gained 1/ 3 lb. more per day compared to hand-fed calves given the same amount of feed. "It can also be used for finishing cattle and for dairy cows, hogs, sheep, and even wildlife in remote areas." The 16-ft. hopper holds 120 bu. of feed. One hopper can feed 25 to 30 head of 600-lb. calves over about 20 ft. of feedbunk. For increased capacity 10-ft. long extensions can be coupled to the hopper. Options include a solar charger for the battery and removeable hitch and wheels for transport. Sells for $2,800. Extensions sell for $475. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, S heyenne Manor Cattle Co., Rt. 2, Box 52, Cooperstown, N. Dak. 58425 (ph 701797-2301).

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