Woods Equipment celebrates 80 years
Woods Equipment is celebrating its 80th anniversary, a milestone that speaks to the company’s legacy, resilience and commitment to delivering quality across generations.
Since its founding in 1946 by brothers Leonard, Keith and Mervel Wood, Woods has grown from a small Oregon, Illinois-based workshop into a leading manufacturer of agricultural and grounds maintenance equipment trusted worldwide. The brand’s industry-changing innovations have included the first tractor-mounted rotary cutters, finish mowers and other attachments that help farmers, contractors and landowners work smarter and more efficiently.
“This anniversary is both a milestone and a tribute to the people who have shaped Woods Equipment over the decades,” said Derek Paulsen, vice president and general manager of Woods Equipment. “Generations of Woods employees have worked to keep our equipment at the forefront of innovation, durability and performance.”
Woods will kick off its yearlong 80th anniversary celebration at the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Kentucky, from Feb. 11–14.
As part of the 80th anniversary celebration, Woods will debut a limited run of anniversary edition “Bat in Black” Batwing cutters and BrushBull rigid rotary cutters.
“Over the years, customers have been wanting to see an all-black version of our legendary Batwing cutter, and the 80th anniversary milestone presented a perfect opportunity to make that happen for them,” said Rob Dewey, business segment director at Woods Equipment. “The units, which come in a matte black styling, will be available for Woods dealers on Feb. 6, 2026, and begin to appear on dealer lots as soon as May.
Woods will also unveil the new BW10.30 10-foot Batwing cutter, adding to their legacy of innovation in the flex-wing category.
“Having invented the Batwing cutter in 1963, we feel a deep responsibility to continue leading in the flex-wing category,” said Anthony Welty, category director of whole goods and strategic accounts at Woods Equipment. “We’re excited to bring this next generation of Batwing cutters to market while celebrating our 80th anniversary, a testament to our legacy of innovation that inspires us every day.”
The company’s 80th anniversary initiatives also include investing in the next generation of land stewards through collaborative partnerships with universities across the country. This will include guest lectures, field days and financial awards in support of agriculture, land management and turf programs, as well as the students pursuing careers in the industry that Woods has served since 1946.
