Barnes Equipment and Massey Ferguson Improving Agricultural Research Opportunities for North Carolina State University Students
By Ashley Barnes, Barnes Equipment
Barnes Equipment, a family-owned and operated business based in Sims, North Carolina, has teamed up with Massey Ferguson to help the North Carolina State University (NCSU) School of Agriculture.
Nearly 20 students in the agricultural program are currently using a new Massey Ferguson 7718 tractor at their Research Farms, donated by Barnes for the farming season. The six-month donation has a rental value of approximately $15,000, and Barnes’ team of expert technicians has also provided time and service support for students.
“Barnes Equipment’s team believes in supporting its surrounding communities, as they are the driving force behind local agriculture,” says owner Ashley Barnes. “After winning several tractor bids for NC State Research Farms, we developed relationships with staff and students at the University, and realized a deeper need. Our donation of this 165 HP tractor during planting and harvesting season helps make ag research possible and affordable for more students.”
Barnes Equipment, with support from Massey Ferguson, has collaborated with NC State school administrators to provide seasonal tractor use for the School of Agriculture. During that time, Barnes Equipment will also help with servicing the equipment if needed. After students are finished with the tractor each year, Barnes will return the equipment to their inventory.
The dealer also works with other local universities such as Mount Olive University near Goldsboro, North Carolina. Mount Olive has a fast-growing agricultural program with similar equipment needs. Last year, Barnes Equipment donated a Massey Ferguson 2680 cab tractor to help students there with planting and harvesting applications.
“Our team not only enjoys donating equipment, but also witnessing how each tractor helps groups of students learn how to improve the communities we serve,” says Barnes. “With Massey Ferguson’s help, Barnes Equipment is able to form lasting relationships and strengthen local educational opportunities, necessary for the future of agriculture in North Carolina.”
Barnes Equipment, located in Sims NC, is a family owned-and-operated tractor dealer serving southeast North Carolina since 1916. Today, the third and fourth generations of the Barnes family manage the business. Barnes specializes in both new and used equipment sales, service and parts, and has provided superior customer service to surrounding communities for more than 100 years. To learn more about Barnes Equipment, visit www.barnesequip.com.
