Martin and Mathieu Henderson, owners of DFM HENDERSON INC. farm in Saint-Chrysostome, are well-known names in the industry. With a quota of 160 kilograms and a robust dairy herd, their farm spans 700 acres, a significant portion dedicated to growing soybeans and corn for herd feeding, with 100 to 200 acres allocated for hay. These experienced farmers have recently embraced an innovative approach in managing their fertilizers, transforming how they plan and receive their deliveries.

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A STRONG PARTNERSHIP WITH SYNAGRI

The Henderson brothers’ farm has a longstanding history with Synagri, dating back even before the early 2000s merger. This fruitful collaboration has evolved over the years, and with the arrival of their representative Myriam Dubreuil, it has opened up new opportunities and solutions for the farm operation.

TRANSITION TO BULK BAGS: A STRATEGIC DECISION

When the Saint-Chrysostome plant closed its doors, the two brothers had to rethink their logistics. That’s when Myriam stepped in, proposing a more practical solution: bulk bags. For the 2023 season, the farm placed its first order, including a valve, representing approximately 80% of the required fertilizer volume. Bulk bags are now delivered directly to the farm, offering unparalleled flexibility and convenience.

ADVANTAGES OF BULK BAGS FOR HENDERSON FARM

Eliminating the need for delivery planning is one of the key benefits, according to Martin. With fertilizers already on the farm, ready to use in the bags, total flexibility is guaranteed. Indoor storage simplifies organization, and they can take exactly what they need when they need it, without relying on fertilizer plant schedules. Additionally, utilizing the free space in a shed built the previous year and an attachment on the tractor has facilitated the storage and handling of bulk bags, providing a safe and efficient solution.

PLANNING AND ADJUSTMENTS: A SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR

The first year with bulk bags has been a success for Martin. Here’s what he says: “In anticipation, we wanted to conduct a test, so we knew in advance that we wouldn’t order all our fertilizers for the year. We roughly calculated the quantities we were fairly certain to use, both for corn starter and AMIDAS. Overall, we had approximate tonnages, but we knew we wouldn’t take everything in bags. We were aware that there would be some in bulk. It was a bit of an estimate. And especially for the starter, management was a bit more delicate, as we spread a lot of manure in the spring, and we weren’t sure of the exact location in the field where we would put the manure. We also had to consider that we couldn’t plan 100% in advance for the manure location. So, we constantly juggle with quantities, not so much with the formula, but at least with quantities within the margins, based on recommendations from the AEFP.”

RENEWAL OF THE EXPERIENCE AND RECOMMENDATION

Martin is interested in renewing the experience with bulk bags and recommends this approach to other farmers. He highlights the risk associated with fertilizer price volatility but believes that the benefits in terms of flexibility and efficiency are well worth it. Proactive management and possible adjustments with Synagri have contributed to making this new delivery method positive and promising for the future of Martin and Mathieu’s farm.

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