[VA Haymaker]

Not that I would be of help here, bit a few thoughts - no particular order.

1. Is she going make hay on all 250 acres or pasture some of it?

2. Is she dead set on a plan to maximize the yield on every square inch, i.e. 125 square to an acre at 50 lbs or 60-70 squares and simply use the shear volume of land to make up for a lime/fertilizer/herbicide program.

3. I'd say a New Holland BC5070, the Hayliner version of it if simply pounding out volumes of hay. Probably include in that list the MF/Hesston 1840 too. If it's all about bale shape, 3 inch or less flakes - where that is the capacity limit, I'd throw a JD348 in the mix as it is a 93 stroke machine like the New Holland.

4. I really like Farmercline's set-up with the Bale Bandit for quickly accumulating bales and moving them around in volume.

5. Minimum 6000 JD series tractors or their equivelant brand peers for mowing and baling, but also for longer wheelbase and a more comfortable ride. Maybe a smaller tractor for tedding, raking and spraying chores.

6. Wide as practical mower conditioner, rake and Tedder.

7. Agree a sprayer with wide boom and drill. Add to that a fertilizer spreader and maybe lime if it makes sense.

8. Have a few teenagers in the house to assist or be prepared to staff up!

9. Some kind of preservative applicator ready to go - if necessary.

10. Moisture meter and hay sample equipment.

11. Plenty of shelters, barns, etc - for both equipment and hay.

Find a dealer that will work with her, vs color specific. I've read good things about Tier 4 New Holland tractors, but Massey Ferguson has some good machines and the Sisu diesel IMHO is one of the best.

Sounds exciting.

Hope this helps.
Bill