Trusted Manufacturer

Founded in 1961 by Roscoe Brown, the company started manufacturing its own line of products for pipeline and drain tile backfilling in 1968. The Brown Bear tractor line of machines was initially built in 1976.  Today the product line has expanded into the environmental and utility industries with the trademark name “Brown Bear,” under the leadership of company president Stan Brown.

The company moved to its current 40,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Corning, Iowa in 1990. Its products are sold nationally and internationally in several different industries: environmental, pipeline construction, and utility construction and maintenance. All engineering, design, fabrication, paint and assembly, as well as sales and support, is handled out of the Corning, Iowa office.
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Industrial
Commercial
Governmental
private

About Us

Brown Bear is a privately held manufacturing company that builds products for the environmental, pipeline, and utility industries.  Trust the 30 years of experience at Brown Bear for answers to your environmental problems: composting, sludge drying, manure handling, bioremediation; or utility jobs: brush cutting, right-of-way clearing, tree trimming, backfilling and all-terrain transporting.  We invite you to explore our pages and learn more about the benefits of owning a quality Brown Bear product.

63
Years of Experience

Reliable Equipment

Brown Bear manufactures products for air drying, composting, bioremediation and land application. Typical customers are governmental agencies air drying sewage sludges or potable water sludges, composting sewage sludge or solid waste (garbage) or land applying dried or composted sewage sludge; agricultural entities generating large amounts of poultry, swine, beef cattle or dairy cattle manures which are composted or land applied to agricultural land; food processing industries generating large amounts of organic residual waste stream that can be composted; hydrocarbon/petrochemical, pharmaceutical and chemical industries generating hazardous waste that must be bioremediated or have contaminated soils that must be cleansed.

Brown Bear manufactures a wide range of machines for these processes starting with small attachments for skid steer loaders and small tractors, progressing to attachments for larger farm tractors, articulating or crawler loaders, and finishing with its own line of tool carrier tractors and all terrain vehicles with specialized attachments. Brown Bear produces products for all size applications.

Environmental Applications

Brown Bear manufactures products for air drying, composting, bioremediation and land application. Typical customers are governmental agencies air drying sewage sludges or potable water sludges, composting sewage sludge or solid waste (garbage) or land applying dried or composted sewage sludge; agricultural entities generating large amounts of poultry, swine, beef cattle or dairy cattle manures which are composted or land applied to agricultural land; food processing industries generating large amounts of organic residual waste stream that can be composted; hydrocarbon / petrochemical, pharmaceutical and chemical industries generating hazardous waste that must be bioremediated or have contaminated soils that must be cleansed.

Why Reach Out to Us?

  • Expert Guidance: Our experienced staff can help you find the right equipment tailored to your specific operational requirements.
  • Innovative Solutions: We offer a range of products designed to enhance efficiency and productivity while ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
  • Customer Support: Whether you’re in agriculture or the utility sector, we’re dedicated to addressing your challenges effectively.

Windrow Turner, Aerator & Composter

Windrow composting is used in agriculture to produce high-volume compost by piling organic matter and biodegradable waste into long windrows. Compost windrow turners were developed to facilitate this process.

Brown Bear has introduced a revised model of its farm tractor composter. The PTO PA35E-10.5 unit is designed to be attached to the front of 100-160 HP farm tractors. The composter requires a front or rear 3-point hitch, 1000 RPM PTO, and creeper transmission. It is available for ISO and counter ISO PTO shaft rotation.

Compost biosolids, yard waste, manure and other organics easily and inexpensively, as well as feedlot, dairy, poultry and swine manure. Composting assures Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO) and Animal Feeding Operations (AFO) compliance, as compost is exempt from the new proposed federal CAFO standards. Governmental loans and grants, such as “319 funds” may be available for equipment purchases used to meet the new CAFO regulations.

  • Largest capacity compost windrow turner in its price class
  • Front or rear mount to most tractors w/ CAT II or III 3Pt. Hitch
  • Compost produces increased crop yields and soil water retention
  • Composting eliminates flies and odors
  • Composting produces dry granular product and reduces volume by 50%
  • Affordable, easy to operate and inexpensive to maintain

Governmental Waste & Water Treatment

Model 300 w/optional 3 Pt. Hitch & 3630 Smooth Paddle Aerator, Drying Anaerobically Digested Wastewater Biosolids

Bioremediation Applications

The Nova Group, U.S. Navy Craney Island Fuel Depot Portsmouth, VA

OPERATION DESCRIPTION: Contractor to enhance remediation process of 200,000 to 300,000 tons of oil contaminated soil. 1,000 x 600-ft. cell will treat 17,000 to 30,000 tons of material per season cycle. Soil contamination is from 100 to 20,000 ppm. Must be lowered to less than 1000ppm. This project did NOT required the addition of bacterial cultures. The Brown Bear 500 has maintained moisture and aerobic conditions with various combinations of fertilizers, enzymes and wood chips/straw. The result of the project was a reduction in contaminant level from 21,000 ppm to less than 100 ppm in 83 days.

YWC Midwest - North Canton, OH

Key to the innovative method of reducing petroleum-based contamination is addition of manufactured bacterial cultures to soil windrows and frequent machine aerating to maximize natural digestion of organic contents. Expected costs and project time were cut 50 to 75 percent, and the resulting material met all environmental standards for reuse in refinery tank farming, filling and other applications. No incineration, transportation or landfilling of materials was necessary, and imported material needs also were reduced. Savings ranged up to $200 per ton for hazardous soils.

The Brown Bear 500 tractor was able to auger up to 3,000 cubic yards of soil per hour, achieving faster decomposition.

Model 500 w/standard 3 Pt. Hitch & 3950 Saw-tooth Paddle Aerator, Bioremediating Hydrocarbon Contaminated Soil
Model 400 w/standard 3 Pt. Hitch & 3940 Spade-tooth Paddle Aerator, Bioremediating (milling, aerating, and windrowing) Insitu

Products

200 Hydrostatic Tractor

The Cummins QSB 4.5 Tier 4 @ 148 hp, is designed for robust performance in various applications.

This engine is widely used in agricultural and industrial machines due to its durability and reliability, making it a popular choice for heavy-duty applications.

300 Hydrostatic Tractor

The Cummins QSB 4.5 Tier 4 @ 190 hp, is engineered for durability and versatility in various applications.

This combination of features makes the Cummins QSB 4.5 a reliable choice for demanding applications in both agricultural and industrial settings.

400 Hydrostatic Tractor

The CAT 7.1 L Tier 4Final 275hp and compliant with Tier III emissions standards, is designed for high performance in various applications.

This combination of power, efficiency, and versatility makes the CAT C-7.1 engine a reliable choice for heavy-duty applications.

500 Hydrostatic Tractor

The CAT 9.3 L Tier 4 at 375hp and compliant with Tier III emissions standards, is engineered for high performance in various applications.

This combination of power, efficiency, and versatility makes the CAT C-9.3 engine an excellent choice for demanding applications across multiple industries.

Large Self Contained Composting Aerators

The SC3110, SC3610, SC3912, and SC4912 horizontal aerators efficiently dewater sludge, build windrows, and aerate for composting, with handling costs ranging from 1 to 2 cents per ton.

Their simple design allows for easy maintenance and operation on irregular surfaces without requiring alleyways, while features like reversible flights enhance durability.

Skid Loader Composting Aerators

The XPR24-8′ Compost Aerator is designed for high-flow skid steers and compact track loaders, suitable for compost, wastewater, potable water sludges, and soil bioremediation.

The R31 Compost Aerator is designed for high-flow skid and compact track loaders, featuring a universal skid loader hitch and flat face hydraulic couplers as standard.

Farm Tractor Aerator/Composters

Brown Bear has launched a revised farm tractor composter model, the PTO PA35D-10.5, designed for 100-160 HP tractors. This composter efficiently handles biosolids, yard waste, and manure, ensuring compliance with federal CAFO standards.

It features a front 3-point hitch, dual PTO options, and hydrostatic transmission. 

 

The machine reduces waste volume by 50%, increases crop yields, and is affordable to operate and maintain. 

All Terrain Carriers

The ATC19-415 All Terrain Carrier features a powerful 415 HP Tier 4F Cat diesel engine and a 12-speed powershift transmission. Designed for versatility, it includes an enclosed ROPS/FOPS cab, tilt cab for maintenance, and robust axles rated for 55,000 lbs.

 

 The carrier can achieve speeds of up to 23 MPH and is compatible with various attachments, including a Kuhn Knight “Slinger” spreader. Its design ensures efficient operation in challenging terrains while maintaining compliance with agricultural regulations.

Brush Cutters

Brown Bear produces a range of brush mulchers, cutters, and shredders for utility industries, focusing on right-of-way clearing for power and telecommunications. 

 

Key models include the FS4000, which can process up to 3 acres per hour, and various tractor attachments like the PTOBC288 and PTOBC285.5, designed to mulch trees and brush up to 10 inches in diameter. These machines enhance efficiency in land clearing while offering options for GPS navigation and compatibility with multiple tractor types.

Green Mulcher GM 5000

These custom-designed units feature a front-mounted flail cutter and a dual hydrostatic system, allowing for efficient mulching at rates of 1.5-2.0 acres per hour.

The GM5000 enhances productivity by reducing the need for multiple passes and lowering overall land preparation costs.

Manufacturering

Leading Manufacturer of Environmental and Utility Equipment for Efficient Land Management

Brown Bear stands out in the industry for its commitment to producing high-quality, innovative equipment designed for efficient land management. Their specialized brush mulchers, cutters, and shredders enable utility companies to effectively clear right-of-ways, ensuring safe and reliable power and telecommunications infrastructure. With a focus on durability, productivity, and versatility, Brown Bear’s products help streamline operations while promoting environmental sustainability.

Utility Applications

Brown Bear manufactures products for the utility industry used for backfilling in pipeline and tile drainage installation, brush cutting in right of way (ROW) clearing, and maintenance for power and telecommunications line installation. The company manufactures several different machines for these processes, based on its line of tool carrier tractors and all terrain carriers with customized attachments of its own manufacture and attachments from outside vendors.

Why Reach Out to Us?

  • Expert Guidance: Our experienced staff can help you find the right equipment tailored to your specific operational requirements.
  • Innovative Solutions: We offer a range of products designed to enhance efficiency and productivity while ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
  • Customer Support: Whether you’re in agriculture or the utility sector, we’re dedicated to addressing your challenges effectively.

Model 400 w/standard 3 Pt. Hitch 3940 Saw-tooth Paddle Aerator, Composting Yard Waste

Brown Bear manufactures products for air drying, composting, bioremediation and land application. Typical customers are governmental agencies air drying sewage sludges or potable water sludges, composting sewage sludge or solid waste (garbage) or land applying dried or composted sewage sludge; agricultural entities generating large amounts of poultry, swine, beef cattle or dairy cattle manures which are composted or land applied to agricultural land; food processing industries generating large amounts of organic residual waste stream that can be composted; hydrocarbon / petrochemical, pharmaceutical and chemical industries generating hazardous waste that must be bioremediated or have contaminated soils that must be cleansed.

Environmental Applications

Brown Bear manufactures a wide range of machines for these processes starting with small attachments for skid steer loaders and small tractors, progressing to attachments for larger farm tractors, articulating or crawler loaders, and finishing with its own line of tool carrier tractors and all terrain vehicles with specialized attachments. Brown Bear produces products for all size applications.

Brush Cutting

Brown Bear manufactures products for the utility industry used for brush cutting in right-of-way (ROW) clearing, and maintenance for power and telecommunications line installation. The company manufactures a variety of brush mulchers, cutters and shredders for these processes based on its line of tool carrier tractors. Brown Bear also manufactures all-terrain carriers with customized attachments and attachments from outside vendors.

FS4000

Brown Bear Model FS4000 brush mulcher shredder unit offers productivity of up to 3 acres per hour, depending on population, wood density, size of material and terrain. The FS4000 units are equipped with optional GPS navigational units that direct the shredders via satellite to sub-meter accuracy. It reduces trees and shrubs from 8 to10 inches in diameter to mulch. Units available as FS4000 at 250 hp and FS5000 at 350 hp. For more information on the FS4000 shredder unit

PTOBC288

Brown Bear Model PTOBC288 brush mulcher is a forestry mulcher attachment for tractors (PTO). It has a universal 3 pt hitch CAT II or III and fits most tractors 85-200 PTO HP with 1000RPM, 1 & 3/8″ 21 spline PTO shaft. It reduces trees and brush up to 10″ in diameter to mulch. For more information on the PTOBC288

PTOBC285.5

Brown Bear Model PTOBC285.5 brush mulcher fits most tractors 85-160hp with 1000RPM, 1 &3/8″ 21 spline shaft, universal 3 Pt hitch CAT II or III. Adjustable multi-position skid shoes allow adjustable cut height. It reduces trees and brush up to 10″ in diameter to mulch. For more information on the PTOBC285.5, 

BC285.5

Brown Bear Model BC285.5 brush mulcher has a universal skid loader hitch and fits most skid loaders with high flow hydraulics (requires 35-55gpm at minimum of 3000 psi). Three optional hydraulic motor sizes allow custom fitting to the skid loader hydraulics. For more information on the BC285.5

BC283

Brown Bear Model BC283 brush mulcher features a universal skid loader hitch and flat face hydraulic couplers. It fits most skid loaders with high-flow hydraulics (requires 25-55gpm at minimum of 3000 psi). With optional equipment and mounting brackets, shredder head can be mounted to excavators with hydraulic flow rates of 35-55gpm and pressure of 3000-4500psi. For more information on the BC283,

All Terrain Carriers​

Green Mulcher

The 415 HP Tier 4F Cat 9.3B diesel engine features a 12-speed powershift transmission by Twin Disc and a 12-volt, 150 Amp alternator. It includes an enclosed, pressurized ROPS and FOPS cab with a tilt design for easy maintenance. The vehicle is equipped with Axle Tech model 1764 axles and PSC 1764 planetary drive steer axles, each rated for 55,000 Ibs.

The front axle is mounted in a rocking cradle while the rear axle is fixed to the frame, both are mechanically driven. The rear axle has a driver-activated locking differential, allowing coordinated steering at low speeds and self-centering above 10 MPH. It can reach road speeds of up to 23 MPH with standard gearing, and higher speeds are available with optional gearing.

The system can mount a 16 or 20 cubic yard Kuhn Knight “Slinger” spreader box or other attachments, with optional independent hydrostatic systems for the feed auger and discharge hammers. Additionally, it is compatible with GPS auto steer and digital scale systems for enhanced operational efficiency.

Backfilling

Auger Backfillers for Pipeline & Tile Drainage Installation

Brown Bear manufactures auger backfillers for the utility industry used for backfilling in pipeline and tile drainage installation. The company manufactures several different machines for these processes based on its line of tool carrier tractors.

Find detailed information below for the Brown Bear Auger Backfiller that best suits your needs.

BROWN BEAR MODEL 300 AUGER BACKFILLER

The Brown Bear Model 300 is used by Jonah Gas Gathering, a pipeline contractor specializing in gas and oil gathering systems. After the trenching and pipe installation, the trench is backfilled with a Brown Bear Model 300 auger backfiller. The backfiller protects the pipe and coating and insures that the ditch is filled in a manner that prevents settling and washouts. When the model 300 is not being used as a backfiller, the forklift attachment is installed in place of the auger backfiller and the unit is utilized to handle pipe in the pipe yard.

PTOAB3610 AUGER BACKFILLER

This front or rear farm tractor mount is designed for CAT II or CAT Ill three-point hitches and supports a maximum input of 175 PTO HP. It operates at 1000 RPM PTO input with a standard 13/8″ x 21 spline shaft in ISO clockwise rotation, with an optional 1 3/4″ x 20 spline and counter ISO rotation available.

The system features a PTO input connected to a slip clutch-protected right-angle reduction gearbox, with an enclosed 160 roller chain final drive that utilizes dip lubrication. Drive and discharge bearings are oil-lubricated, and it has a right-hand discharge. The continuous auger includes adjustable and replaceable wear plates.

  • Width: 10 feet
  • Weight: 4250 pounds
SERIES 24 AUGER BACKFILLER FOR SKID LOADERS

This skid loader backfiller features a universal hitch and flat face hydraulic couplers, requiring a minimum flow of 30 GPM at 3000 PSI and a maximum of 50 GPM at 5500 PSI. It includes a standard 10-degree side-to-side hydraulic tilt and a continuous auger with adjustable, replaceable wear plates.

The system utilizes a piston drive motor with planetary gear reduction and a 120 roller chain final drive, allowing for parallel filling that minimizes right-of-way disturbance while pulverizing the fill as it backfills. This design reduces maintenance for washouts or sinkholes and enhances maneuverability.

  • Discharge: Right-hand
  • Widths Available: 8′ or 10′
  • Weight: 3120 lbs
  • Efficiency: Faster than blade filling and compatible with water puddling or mechanical compaction.
NEW! R31 AUGER BACKFILLER FOR HIGH FLOW SKID & COMPACT TRACK LOADERS

Brown Bear has introduced a scaled-down version of its self-propelled auger backfiller as an attachment for skid steer loaders. The R24C model is used with high-flow hydraulics. The backfiller is available in 7′ or 8′ widths. Tilt and angle options are available, as well as left-hand or right-hand discharge. The unit quickly and easily backfills trenches up to 12″ wide and works parallel to the ditch line.

  • Universal skid loader hitch and flat face hydraulic couplers.
  • Remote hydraulic units require minimum 15 GPM flow at 2000 PSI, six (6) hydraulic motor sizes allows custom fitting to the skid loader hydraulics.
  • Continuous auger with adjustable and replaceable wear plates.
  • Hydraulic tilt and manual angle options.
  • Parallel filling results in less right-of-way disturbance.
  • Fill is pulverized as it is backfilled.
  • Return maintenance for washouts or sink holes is reduced.
  • Skid loader mounted auger backfiller is very maneuverable.
  • Compatible with water puddling or mechanical compaction.
  • Faster than blade filling.

Snow Removal Equipment

Self Propelled Units

Hydrostatic ground drive provides traction and crowding power to blow snow from the roughest off-highway terrain or level roads and runways.

Besides the snow blower, the Brown Bear tractor can be equipped with auger, runway broom, dozer blade, V-plow, brush shredder, backhoe, feller buncher, brush chipper, winch, and more.

Single-stage blowers with dual impellers and spouts offer top performance for the horsepower dollar. Simple and basic design gives more freedom from damage when striking buried foreign objects like chains, rocks, and fence posts.

Optional truck loading chutes available with manual or hydraulic direction control.

  • 130 – 350 hp Tool Carriers available (Brown Bear models 200, 300, 400, & 500)
  • 8’ Blower with 500 – 1000 Tons Per hour rating
  • 9’ blower with 1800 – 2200 Tons Per hour rating
  • Additional lighting package for increased visibility
ST7 Skid Steer Snow Blower

The ST7 snow blower attachment can be used with standard-flow and high-flow skid steer loaders.

The ST7 Skid Steer Snow Blower can also be mounted on any farm tractor and loader with the universal hitch and a minimum flow of 15 GPM at the hydraulic remotes.

  • 84 Inch Wide Blade
  • Hydraulically driven impeller
  • Coast down and overload protected hydraulic system
  • Replaceable and adjustable lower bit and skid shoes
  • Discharge distance up to 40′
  • No Cross shaft to break, no discharge chute to plug, no shear pins
  • Optional hydraulic controlled discharge cap
  • No bearings to grease
  • final drive through size 60 roller chain
  • Available for skid loaders 18-40 gpm, 1800-4100psi
  • Mountings for compact tractor available
  • Optional electric controlled cappers available

Mining Equipment

Mine Waste, Tailings, and Residuals Sludge Drying

As today’s technologies evolve there is a new and upcoming need for a unit that accelerates the drying and mixing process of Mine waste and tailings. The Brown Bear aerator can accomplish many of these tasks in a quick and efficient method VS traditional methods of mixing or aerating with bulldozers.

The Brown Bear is put to use mixing tailings waste with differing materials such as feldspar, lime, topsoil, or yard waste for mine reclamation projects.

Additional uses are for aerating and accelerating the drying of settling ponds or lagoons of waste and tailings. By mixing and stacking the material is exposed to wind and solar drying. Stacking of the waste into windrows helps to shed new rainfall and helps prevent moisture absorption.

Versatility of the base tractor can be seen with the use of other work tools such as a snow blower, brush shredder, or broom sweeper attachment.

Are you looking for reliable and efficient solutions for your environmental and utility needs?

Brown Bear specializes in manufacturing high-quality equipment for composting, sludge drying, and brush cutting. Our innovative machines are designed to tackle a variety of challenges in agriculture and utility sectors.

Financials

Brown Bear is a privately held manufacturing company that builds products for the environmental, pipeline, and utility industries.  Trust the 30 years of experience at Brown Bear for answers to your environmental problems: composting, sludge drying, manure handling, bioremediation; or utility jobs: brush cutting, right-of-way clearing, tree trimming, backfilling and all-terrain transporting.  We invite you to explore our pages and learn more about the benefits of owning a quality Brown Bear product.

Why Choose Us

Industry-Leading Technology

By choosing Brown Bear, you gain access to industry-leading technology that enhances productivity, reduces operating costs, and ensures compliance with environmental regulations. Our equipment not only improves efficiency but also promotes sustainability in your operations.

Proven Expertise:

Brown Bear specializes in manufacturing high-quality equipment for composting, sludge drying, and utility tasks, ensuring reliable performance and industry compliance.

Innovative Solutions:

With a diverse product line includes advanced brush mulchers, composters, and bioremediation equipment, designed to enhance operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact in various sectors.

Customizable Equipment:

Brown Bear offers tailored solutions with options for different tractor types and attachments, allowing customers to find the perfect fit for their specific needs and maximize productivity.

Talk to our Sales Department

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your operations. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how they can benefit your business!

Testimonials

Words of Appreciation from Our Valued Clients

At Brown Bear, we take pride in delivering high-quality equipment that meets the diverse needs of our customers in agriculture, utility, and environmental sectors.

But don’t just take our word for it—hear from those who have experienced the benefits of our products firsthand!

Our customers consistently share their success stories, highlighting how our innovative solutions have transformed their operations, improved efficiency, and enhanced sustainability. From composting and waste management to brush cutting and land clearing, our equipment is designed to deliver exceptional performance and reliability.

Explore the testimonials below to see how Brown Bear equipment has made a positive impact on businesses like yours. Join our community of satisfied customers and discover how we can help you achieve your goals!

Using my Brown Bear composting unit has transformed my operation. It builds its own windrows, cutting down on labor and reducing material volume by 50%. I couldn’t be happier!

Bill M. MI

Our Brown Bear PTO-PA 35C aerator has made composting a breeze. It efficiently processes our waste, ensuring compliance while saving us time and money.

Dan R. NE

The FS4000 brush mulcher is a game-changer for clearing brush. Its productivity is impressive—up to 3 acres per hour! It’s efficient and easy to operate.

Tom L. MN

The versatility of the Brown Bear equipment allows us to tackle various jobs effortlessly. It's durable and reliable in tough conditions.

David B. ND

At Brown Bear, our mission is to provide innovative, high-quality equipment solutions that enhance environmental sustainability and operational efficiency across the agricultural, utility, and pipeline industries.

Information
Location

Dakota City, NE

Email

sales@broyhill.com

Phone

Contact: +1 (402) 987-3412

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