ForConstructionPros.com

Cummins Inc. announces the approval of

biodiesel B20 blends for use in its 2002 and later emissions-compliant ISX, ISM, ISL, ISC and ISB engines. This includes the 2007 products.

Cummins is able to upgrade its previous position on the use of biodiesel fuel - which limited use to B5 blends only - up to B20 for three key reasons. First, the ASTM D6751 specification now includes an important stability spec for B100 biodiesel. Second, the availability of quality fuels from BQ-9000-certified marketers and accredited producers is growing rapidly. And third, Cummins has completed the necessary testing and evaluations to ensure that customers can reliably operate their equipment using B20 fuel.

JLG Industries, Inc. has been awarded a contract valued at $102.2 million by the U.S. Army for the purchase of 566 JLG ATLAS II military telescopic material handlers over the next five years. The machines will be delivered for deployment through the U.S. Army in all logistics areas. The contract includes requirements for field service support, add-on armor, performance-based logistics and simulators for training purposes.

Vermeer Mfg. Co. announces additions to its executive management team.

Mike Byram has been named senior director of environmental solutions, and will oversee sales, service, product development and strategy for the tree care, wood waste and recycling markets. With the company since 1994, Byram was most recently senior director of environmental solutions.

Steve Heap has been named senior director of international sales and operations. With Vermeer since 1996, he served most recently as managing director of Vermeer International BV in the Netherlands, with operations covering Europe, Africa and the Middle East. In his new role, he will lead all activities in Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific.