The 2025 North American Biochar Conference , hosted by the U.S. Biochar Initiative (USBI), took place September 15-18 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. The event brought together innovators, industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs for deep dives, technical sessions, industry-wide keynotes, panel discussions, and hands-on networking. Ruffridge Johnson   in the Spotlight Thursday’s field trip to the Washington County facility highlighted Ruffridge Johnson's (RJ) leadership in the biochar space. The site will soon operate a Phoenix 8000 machine to produce biochar, with RJ providing direct support and expertise. Their hands-on involvement, from technical knowledge to regional proximity, positions them as a key driver in expanding Minnesota’s environmental business. This effort not only strengthens the launch of the Washington County site but also reinforces RJ’s commitment to advancing sustainable technologies and accelerating t...

    Komatsu is launching a new model of its largest harvester, the 951XC-1 harvester. It’s purpose-built for enhanced stability, performance and productivity to the most demanding forestry operations. The Komatsu 951XC-1 is one of the largest harvesters on the market. Its eight driven wheels deliver incredible traction, maneuverability and stability, especially in steep, soft or rugged conditions. Inside the cab, operators experience automotive-level quality with refined controls and features built for all-day comfort and precision.   Key performance highlights: Eight-wheel drive ensures excellent stability and low ground pressure Tractive force of 54,400 lbf (242 kN) supports operation in tough terrain Komatsu’s 3PS hydraulic coordination system allows multiple head and crane functions to operate at full power simultaneously Shortened crane center-to-front-wheel distance enables wider working range and stronge...

  Komatsu is proud to announce two new game-changing excavators. The new PC220LC-12 features a cab and controls designed for operator comfort, efficiency and productivity. The PC220LCi-12 includes the same features plus IMC 3.0, Komatsu’s latest intelligent machine control technology, incorporating automation enhancements designed to enhance operator productivity throughout each shift.    Both 21-24 ton-class hydraulic excavators are ideal for residential and commercial contractors, either performing basic land clearing and general earthwork or more advanced GPS design-driven site development.     Compared to the PC210LC-11, both excavators feature: A cab that is 28% larger, with 30% more legroom and 50% improved visibility Up to a 20% increase in fuel efficiency due to a new electro-hydraulic system and high-output engine Up to a 20% reduction in maintenance costs due to longer re...

    To expand product offerings and provide more well-rounded solutions to customers, Road Machinery & Supplies Co. will now offer trenching, shoring, and underground safety products, including the Pacific Shoring brand to the Minnesota and Iowa markets.     Pacific Shoring is an industry leader in trench boxes and other trench safety equipment. U.S. Shoring & Equipment, a Road Machinery & Supplies Co. Family Company, has carried Pacific Shoring, and will continue to do from its Euless, Texas, location.   “Carrying more well-rounded solutions to customers, Road Machinery & Supplies Co. will now offer trenching, shoring, and underground safety products allows us to meet a recurring need of our customers with a high-quality product. Additionally, with U.S. Shoring’s longstanding history in the industry, we have built-in experience that we can lean on for our sales and service teams when it comes to training and general knowledge,” said General Mana...

    With a small footprint, rubber tracks, and great versatility, the Komatsu PC88 and PC138 excavator models are excellent for road utility jobs. See why these Komatsu excavators are the machines of choice for Twin Cities contractor Precision Utilities.   Click here to watch the video and lean more!

  As America was growing in the early 1900s, a mine, quarry or other natural resource-based company would be an anchor for a town to develop around. Those enterprises played an integral role by providing not only employment, but a sense of identity for the residents. That was the case for Douds, Iowa.    VIDEO : Komatsu 325-8 haul trucks keep Douds Stone productive VIDEO : Astec stackers & wash plants help Douds Stone manage their quarry efficiently   In the 1920s, a company looking for a source of ag lime and construction began underground mining in the small southeast Iowa town. In 1947, extreme flooding caused the nearby Des Moines River to break its levees and flood the mine. Faced with a flooded underground operation and a submerged equipment fleet, the controlling company walked away from the mine.   The residents of Douds did not.   “The community still wanted to have a source of rock, the jobs and all tha...

  Conor McCue has joined Road Machinery & Supplies Co. as its new Vice President of Mining, starting on Monday, May 12th.  Conor brings 21 years of experience at Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., where he held operations, maintenance, and management roles across four of their mine sites. Most recently, he served as Operations Manager, overseeing the Minorca Mine. “His deep knowledge of the mining industry on the Iron Range and his proven leadership make him an outstanding addition to our team,” said President Russell Sheaffer. Conor holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of North Dakota and an MBA from Regis University. Outside of work, he enjoys archery, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his wife Nichole, their children, and dog. This news coincides with the announcement of Vice President of Northern Operations Jon Anderson’s retirement, coming up this summer. Jon and Conor will work together closely to ensure a smooth transition...

  WATCH VIDEO: https://youtu.be/Jt69nEgsOeE?si=BPSZPk2l-G2xKETg   Road Machinery & Supplies Co. held a ribbon cutting to officially open its new Sioux City branch facility at 5700 Al Haynes Dr, on Tuesday, Feb. 18. Located in Sioux City Expedition Business Park on the southern end of Sioux City, conveniently near the Sioux City Gateway Airport and Interstate 29, the 12,000-square foot branch features two large drive through bays, a wash bay, parts warehouse, conference room, break area, and offices for staff. In addition to size, the facility greatly enhances on the service and repair capabilities that were possible in the original Sioux City branch, which was built in 1946, with high ceilings, larger workspaces, cranes, and technology advancements. At the ceremony, RMS CEO Mike Sill II noted that the investment in the new facility speaks to the growth of the company and its investment in western Iowa, Nebraska and the Dakotas. He thanked the man...