As the dairy industry evolves, so do the tools needed to keep up with it. From shifting herd sizes to tighter labor windows and rising feed quality demands, today’s dairy producers are facing a new set of challenges — and opportunities. At Vermeer, we’ve been listening closely, adapting intentionally and building a lineup of forage solutions that meet the needs of modern dairy operations — both large and small. 

Whether you’re cutting, tedding, raking, baling, mixing or spreading, Vermeer is committed to helping you get the job done — efficiently, reliably and with the quality your herd depends on. 

The dairy shift: larger herds, higher stakes

The dairy landscape is changing. Smaller, 100-cow dairies are becoming less common, while larger operations are taking on more acres, more cows and more complexity. But one thing hasn’t changed: the importance of high-quality forage. 

For dairy producers, feed quality isn’t just a nice-to-have — it directly impacts milk production. That’s why Vermeer has made it a priority to develop equipment that helps producers harvest, handle and feed forage with precision and consistency. 

A full lineup built for dairy

Over the past five years, Vermeer has expanded its forage lineup with purpose. From mower conditioners to silage balers, vertical mixers and manure spreaders, each product is designed keeping dairy producers in mind. 

Mowers and triple mowers

Vermeer re-launching into the mower conditioner market has been a game-changer for dairy operations, especially those working with alfalfa. The triple mower lineup — available in three styles — offers up to 29.3 ft (8.9 m) cutting width, helping producers cover more ground in less time. 

With or without conditioning: For those chopping hay, non-conditioning options reduce moving parts and horsepower needs. 

Conditioning options: Flail (only available on triple mowers) and roller conditioners are available for those who need them. 

Tedders and rakes

Moisture consistency is key to fermentation and feed quality. That’s why Vermeer offers a 48.6-ft (14.8-m) tedder designed to keep moisture levels even across the crop, reducing hotspots in bunkers and bales. 

Twin rotary rakes and R-series basket rakes are engineered to minimize ash content by avoiding ground engagement — keeping dirt, rocks and debris out of your windrows and your herds feed. 

Silage balers: density matters

When it comes to baleage, density is everything. Vermeer silage balers are known for producing heavy, tightly packed bales that ferment faster and retain more nutrients. Features like onboard scales, moisture sensors and drop floors help producers monitor quality and reduce downtime. 

“A dense bale keeps oxygen out and helps that product ferment quicker. That’s where we shine,” stated Bart Elder with Vermeer Forage Solutions. 

Mix it right: vertical mixers for dairy 

In 2019, Vermeer acquired a vertical mixer company, expanding its reach into the feeding side of dairy operations. Today, Vermeer offers mixers ranging from 350 ft3 to 1,150 ft3 (9.9 m3 to 32.6 m3), all designed with one goal: consistent, high-quality feed in every bite. 

Key features include: 

• Three-points of contact for thorough mixing 
• Offset baffles and overlapping screws to eliminate dead spots 
• Efficient cleanout for quick ration changes 

Dairy producers can’t afford inconsistent rations. Vermeer mixers are built to deliver the uniformity your herd needs to become high-producing cattle. 

Manure spreaders: built to last

The Vermeer and Bunning partnership brings a line of vertical beater manure spreaders to the market that are as tough as they are precise. These machines are designed to: 

• Spread evenly to avoid soil pH issues 
• Handle heavy use with overbuilt components for durability 
• Reduce maintenance and downtime 

Productivity, simplicity and support

Dairy producers don’t have the luxury of long field days. Between milking, chores and unpredictable weather, efficiency is everything. Vermeer equipment is designed to be: 

• Simple to operate for multiple users 
• Durable enough to handle high-acreage demands 
• Sized right to maximize productivity for herds of different sizes 

From mower conditioners to silage balers, vertical mixers and manure spreaders, Vermeer offers size options that help producers do more in less time — without sacrificing quality. 

Adapting to new forages and cropping systems

In regions like the northeast and eastern Canada, double cropping is becoming more common. Dairy producers plant winter wheat or rye in the fall, harvest in the spring, and follow with corn. These crops are taller, heavier and more fibrous — demanding more from equipment. 

The Vermeer hook tine tedder design and silage balers are built to handle these tougher forages, helping producers make the most of every acre. 

Elder explained: “We’re not making more land. We have to get more out of what we have.” 

Technology that works for you

Modern dairy operations rely on data. The Vermeer Atlas™ control systems and other onboard technologies provide real-time insights into: 

• Bale count 
• Moisture levels 
• Bale weight 

These tools help dairy farmers make informed decisions, manage costs and improve forage quality — all from the cab. 

The Vermeer dealer difference

Behind every Vermeer machine is a dealer network that understands agriculture. Many of our dealers are farmers and ranchers themselves, and they know what it takes to keep operations running — especially after hours. Just a few ways Vermeer forage dealerships can support you and your equipment: 

• Extended parts support during hay season 
• Knowledgeable service teams 
• Local relationships that go beyond the sale 

“When you sign up to be a forage dealer, you’re signing up to support customers beyond 8 to 5,” Elder said. “Our dealers get that.”  

Looking ahead: what’s next for dairy?

Vermeer isn’t stopping anytime soon. With more products in development, Vermeer is committed to supporting dairy producers through every season. 

From new silage tools to expanded mixer options, the future is focused on helping producers do more — with less time, less labor and more confidence. 

At Vermeer, we’re not just building machines — we’re building solutions for the people who feed the world. Dairy producers face some of the toughest challenges in agriculture, and we’re proud to stand beside them with equipment that’s durable, efficient and built to perform. 

Whether you’re cutting hay, mixing rations or spreading manure, Vermeer is here to help you make the most of every acre, every hour and every season. 

Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing at any time without notice or obligation.

Equipment shown is for illustrative purposes only and may display optional accessories or components specific to their global region.
Please contact your local Vermeer dealer for more information on machine specifications.

Vermeer, the Vermeer logo, Equipped to Do More, and Atlas are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries. © 2025 Vermeer Corporation. All Rights Reserved.