Kubota. The word sounds like the name of a new genus of plants being grown at MEMBG. But that's not the case at all. Kubota is the brand name of a new tractor that we just purchased. And we are just as proud as new parents!
Many projects at MEMBG require moving tons of earth from one place to another. We are building new paths, relocating others, and establishing new planting beds. Plants with large root balls often need to be transplanted to more appropriate sites. Using hand labor alone, simple tasks can take hours of valuable time. Thus, we decided that our work would be simplified--and, in the end, much less costly--if we purchased the right tool, our own tractor.
The Kubota model B21 is a compact tractor with a low center of gravity. The compact body is essential because this is the only heavy-duty tractor that can be driven on our narrow paths, many of which are only fifty-five inches wide. The low center of gravity is important because it makes this machine safer to use on our steep hillsides. Garden staff have used this model before and found it very maneuverable in tight quarters and small corners.
So, the next time you visit the botanical garden, watch for our orange Kobuta on the prowl!