In 2003, Jim Anderson and James Young, Newman, Ill., launched a first-of-its-kind business using "over-the-top" machines for chopping out male rows in seed corn fields. They're turning what is normally a waste product into quality feed.

Taking out the male rows lessens the chance for "genetic thievery" and it also lets the grower use larger machinery at harvest. The easiest solution in the past was running the male rows down. Now Young and Anderson use Modern Flow(r) choppers, built by Paul's Welding in Villa Grove, Ill., to chop out the rows using high-clearance machines.

The complete removal of the male rows has additional benefits for growers looking at a corn-on-corn rotation. Not only do you eliminate the volunteer corn but you also reduce the possibility of disease from the male rows that were run down during the growing season.

The service is worth enough to the growers that Young and Anderson do not pay a fee to the grower. They sell whatever silage they are able to take out.

Paul's Welding built the high-clearance machines, each of which is fitted with a Deere cab and a 275-hp. Cummins engine. Hydraulic-powered chop and throw units mount on each side of the machine. The frame and choppers adjust to varying row widths, from 120 to 160 in.

Hoppers mount on high-dump scissor hoists that reach 13 1/2 ft. at the bottom when fully extended. The 600+ cu. ft. boxes can easily dump into semi trailers or dump carts.

Anderson and Young deliver silage to livestock producers and also offer a silage bagging service. Their 12-ft. bagger can produce 200, 250, 300 and 500 ft. bags. At the present time they operate in Illinois, Indiana, Texas and Wisconsin.