New Holland Tractors Boost Hazelnut Production in Southern Chile

In Freire, a commune located in the Province of Cautín, southern Chile, Julián Seco López, a commercial engineer, has implemented New Holland tractors in his family fruit project, which focuses on the production of European hazelnuts. This initiative has led to a seasonal production exceeding 300 thousand tons, with an average yield surpassing two thousand kg per hectare. The project emphasizes efficiency through the mechanization of various agricultural tasks, which has proven essential for enhancing productivity. The integration of modern technologies and agricultural management practices has allowed Julián to establish a complete process line that adds value to his production. The mechanization of preliminary stages at the orchard level has significantly improved the overall profitability of the business. New Holland's marketing and innovations manager, Juliano Mendonca, highlights the importance of building strong relationships with customers, emphasizing that their commitment goes beyond merely selling machinery. The versatility of the T4 tractors has enabled Julián to utilize them for multiple tasks, including planting, transporting produce to processing lines, and loading trucks for final dispatch. Additionally, these tractors are beneficial during the pruning season, where they assist in specific tasks such as operating a pruning waste shredder. This multifaceted use of machinery not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to the sustainability of the agricultural business. Overall, the successful implementation of mechanization in hazelnut production in southern Chile illustrates the positive impact of modern agricultural practices on profitability and sustainability, showcasing the potential for growth in the region's fruit production sector.