2008 News Releases and Information

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Illinois (February 11, 2008)— To assist producers of hand-harvested fruit and vegetable crops in working more productively, efficiently and profitably, John Deere Agri Services has introduced two information management tools: Product Tracking and Labor Tracking solutions. These innovative systems work collaboratively to record, store and manage information to better run operations.

The Labor Tracking solution utilizes a handheld device to collect in-field information to track and monitor harvest and production data such as who harvested what crops, where and when. All in-field collected data is automatically stamped with GPS coordinates, date and time for accurate reporting and record keeping.

The Labor Tracking information is transferred to a secure Web-based system that allows managers to view in near real-time harvest progress, yield and quality grade information during harvest to better manage risk and allocate resources more timely and according to customer needs. Electronically captured Labor Tracking data eliminates manual entry of field data which reduces paperwork and errors; allows managers to better monitor and track equipment and field labor productivity for scheduling and payment; and makes analysis of data quick and easy, depending on the needs of the operation.

The Product Tracking solution gives managers the ability to more accurately and easily record and track all in-field production history for field and shed-packed fresh produce and to link data from the field to the finished lot. The system converts data into real-time information that managers can use to increase product value, expedite regulatory and commercial compliance and improve risk management.

The Product Tracking solution records all growers and fields and all chemical applications and production inputs by field; tracks bins from the field to the packer; matches bin lots with the grower and the packer; and tracks case and pallets from the packer to the retailer.

In addition, the Product Tracking solution is a fully automated data collection system that uses unique barcode labeling, RFID tags and handheld devices to record information and creates chain of custody record for all produce from the field to the retailer. And the web-based connectivity of the system crosses all enterprises to share information with growers, suppliers and retailers.

"The food industry and consumers today demand as much information as possible about where and how food is produced," says Ron Leiker, vice president, marketing and sales for John Deere Agri Services. "The Labor Tracking and Product Tracking solutions provide a fully integrated, automated data management system that is near real-time, accurate and easy to use."

"The two systems work together to provide produce managers the immediate information they need to better manage and track production metrics and produce from planting, through harvest, packing, shipping and to the end user. Access to timely, accurate production information can help managers add value and differentiate their produce in the market," Leiker adds.

For more information on the Labor Tracking and Product Tracking solutions, produce managers can call 1-800-393-8971 or e-mail the John Deere Agri Services customer contact at AgriServices@JohnDeere.com. Additional information on the Labor Tracking and Product Tracking solutions can also be found on the Web site at www.JohnDeereAgriServices.com.

John Deere (Deere & Company - NYSE: DE) is the world's leading provider of advanced products and services for agriculture and forestry and a major provider of advanced products and services for construction, lawn and turf care, landscaping and irrigation. John Deere also provides financial services worldwide and manufactures and markets engines used in heavy equipment. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has extended its heritage of integrity, quality, commitment and innovation around the globe.