Delta implements and machines: Combine Ferry

The Delta’s unique and difficult soil conditions have brought about the invention of notable machines and implements.

Invented near Stockton was the Holt Caterpillar, the world’s first crawler-type tractor. The invention of its continuous track allowed machines to move through the Delta’s mucky soils.

Rio Vista’s Lloyd Schmidt and his welding buddies gave the world the first sugar beet harvester. The harvester was the result of just the right progressive curve banged into a 20-penny nail. A drawing from the patent application:

The world’s first mechanical beet harvester, invented by Delta blacksmiths.

The DNP has discovered that a new piece of equipment, the Combine Ferry, is being developed by designer Scott Keck that brings together two new Delta-specific needs: the movement of people around the Delta’s waterways, and the harvesting of invasive water hyacinth.  Here is a schematic drawing of the device:

Part waterborne corn chopper, part party boat, the combine ferry will lead a busy life in the Delta.