Monchiero, an equipment manufacturer based in Italy, has been producing nut and fruit harvesting equipment for the last 50 years and has recently partnered with Papé Machinery to bring this specialized equipment to nut growers in the United States. The technologically advanced equipment can improve harvest productivity and profitability.

What makes the Monchiero harvester different from other hazelnut harvesting equipment?

1. It reduces the number of passes required and machinery needed
   Hazelnut harvesting typically requires a minimum of three passes. First, the sweepers makes two passes to create a windrow, then a harvester follows to pick up the nuts - a process that normally requires a sweeper, a harvester, and a nut cart. The Monchiero is effectively all three of those hazelnut harvesting machines in one.

2. It allows operators to make adjustments from the cab
   The Monchiero harvester has a patented system that allows the operator to make any adjustments needed right from the cab. Sweeper head height, fan speed, chain adjustments, and more can be controlled with the push of a button within the comfort of the cab. The Monchiero also features a Start/End button, which automatically lifts the brushes, stops the rollers, and shuts down the harvesting functions in unison.

3. It’s faster
   The Monchiero harvester operates at nearly double the speed of traditional equipment, thereby decreasing harvest time and increasing efficiency. Traditionally, hazelnut harvesting equipment operates at approximately 3-4 miles per hour … the Monchiero, on the other hand, operates at a speed of up to 7 miles per hour. That small difference in miles per hour can help operators get ahead of wet weather conditions that follow harvest season and get the produce on trucks in a timely manner.

4. It requires less manpower & improves profitability
   Essentially three pieces of equipment in one, the Monchiero can reduce or eliminate the need to hire temporary harvest help. Not only does the Monchiero harvester reduce machinery and manpower required, it also reduces maintenance and fuel costs.

5. It performs in turf, dirt, or mud
   Stopping mid-row to scrape mud off the fans is a frequent challenge for most harvesters operating in wet weather. Due to the way the shear fan is designed, the Monchiero won’t clog even in muddy conditions. Dust during dry harvests can be a big problem for nut growers, too. Because the Monchiero makes fewer passes, operators find dust in the air is greatly reduced. Additionally, Monchiero makes one of the few harvesters that can operate well on turf. These hazelnut harvesting machines are easy on the ground and won’t tear up turf or cause erosion.

Monchiero offers a range of self-propelled models for small growers to large commercial orchards.