John Deere partners with The Reservoir to boost high-value crop innovation

USA – John Deere has entered into a strategic partnership with The Reservoir, a California-based agricultural technology incubator, to drive new solutions for high-value crop production.

The agreement combines Deere’s advanced machinery and precision agriculture tools with The Reservoir’s startup network, field-testing facilities, and commercialization support.

The collaboration targets pressing challenges in specialty crop farming, including labor shortages, efficiency gaps, and long-term sustainability. “High-value crops represent a critical growth area for agriculture where innovation can have a measurable impact on resilience and productivity,” said Sean Sundberg, John Deere’s business integration manager.

“This partnership gives us a front-row seat to the next wave of agtech and allows us to work with growers and entrepreneurs to ensure new solutions are scalable and built to last.”

Under the agreement, John Deere will serve as the exclusive equipment manufacturer at The Reservoir. This gives the company early access to startups, joint research opportunities, and curated field demonstrations.

Deere will also benefit from visibility across The Reservoir’s hub in Salinas Valley and future expansion sites.

Industry leaders have welcomed the move, pointing to its potential to keep growers competitive. “John Deere’s investment in The Reservoir is a vital step to ensure specialty crop growers can stay competitive despite widespread labor shortages,” said Walt Duflock, senior vice president of innovation at Western Growers.

For The Reservoir, the partnership fits its mission to strengthen California agriculture. “At The Reservoir, our mission is to accelerate high-value crop innovation and ensure the sustainability of California agriculture,” said CEO Danny Bernstein.

“John Deere brings trusted technology and a real commitment to grower success. Together, we’re laying the foundation for the next generation of agtech that strengthens our food system.”

Founded in 2024, The Reservoir supports startups with field-based research, robotics incubation, and venture funding. Its collaboration with John Deere also ties into the company’s broader plan to invest more than US$20 billion in U.S. manufacturing over the next decade.

Deere expands footprint in Africa

Alongside its investment in California, John Deere has also introduced its first tracked skid steer to the African market. The 325G, launched in late June 2025, is designed for tough job sites across construction, farming, and municipal projects.

“Bringing the 325G to Africa is a strategic step,” said Griffiths Makgate, C&F Sales Manager Africa and Middle East. “From municipal zones to mines operating in harsh conditions and farms in rural regions, this machine is a versatile solution ready to work wherever our customers do.”

The machine’s compact frame, 71-horsepower engine, and rubber tracks allow it to move across soft or uneven surfaces without damaging them. John Deere says more than 100 attachments can be fitted to the machine, giving it multiple uses.

The 325G also features an optional Remote Control System, which allows operators to run the machine from a distance. “Enhanced operator safety by removing personnel from danger zones” and “greater precision in blind spots or tight working conditions” are among the benefits listed by the company.

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