University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

June 30, 2006

Field updates

Doug Anderson, Extension Educator in Keith, Arthur and Perkins counties: Recent rains have given hope that we may have some native grass for pasturing this year, but the effects of the drought are taking a toll. We're seeing slow growth and stunted plants B not even cheat grass is having a good year. Very dry conditions in April and May have put much in doubt. Alfalfa and native hays will be in short supply and some cattle producers are trying to lock up whatever forages they can as they fear they will need to supplement feed in the not too distant future.

Dryland crops still look good, but due to the lack of subsoil moisture, plants are totally dependent on rainfall this year. Irrigated crops look strong and corn will be head high by the 4th of July. Bean growth is spotty. Wheat harvest began in southern Perkins County this week with yields in the low to mid 30s. While the harvest is better than anticipated, it’s hardly a bin buster.

Del Hemsath, Extension Educator in Dakota, Dixon and Thurston counties: With the recent rains in northeast Nebraska, crops look excellent. Subsoil moisture has been replenished and crops should be good for several weeks. Corn fields in eastern areas are close to tassel stage and will be in that stage by July 4. There has been some areas of hail causing damage to crops, especially the oats. Second cutting for alfalfa is being harvested. Pastures are greening up as the rains stimulated new growth.

Karen L Deboer, Extension Educator in Cheyenne County: Due to wet field conditions early this week, harvest likely won’t start until about July 1. We've received some reports of hail damage following the recent storms. In our area, the lack of rain in April, May and June has had a greater effect on the wheat crop than diseases.

Paul Hay, Extension Educator in Gage County: Wheat in southeast Nebraska is better than expected. Average yields have been in the mid to high 40s with a range from 35 bu/ac to 80 bu/ac. Two diseases — wheat streak mosaic and common bunt or stinking smut —were each found in more than 15 fields. There is a simple solution for bunt: use clean seed (preferably certified seed) and treat every kernel going in the ground with full coverage. There are enough portable treaters in the area so every cleaner can feed right into a treater.

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Copyright 2006 by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents. All rights reserved.
Published by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources Cooperating with the counties and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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