May 8, 2020

Pest Management

Cutworm Pheromone Trapping Network Update

Pheromone traps have been established at several locations in eastern Nebraska to monitor for several spring migrants to Nebraska; black cutworm, variegated cutworm and true armyworm moths. Find the latest report here.

Scouting Advised for Alfalfa Weevil

Alfalfa weevils have been reported damaging alfalfa in north central Kansas. As temperatures warm up, expect to see alfalfa weevil larvae in southern Nebraska and slightly later, in northern Nebraska.

Nebraska Invasive Weed: Field Bindweed

Field bindweed is also known as small bindweed, European bindweed, and Creeping Jenny Management and control of field bindweed is difficult due to its extensive root system and long life of the seeds. Depleting the root reserves of the plant and reducing sprouting is key to successful management.

Plant Disease

Wheat Disease Update

Reports indicate that stripe rust is present in Oklahoma and northeast Kanas. These reports suggest that there is a high likelihood that stripe rust will occur in Nebraska wheat fields. Leaf rust is also likely to occur, but we expect to see stripe rust first.

Farm Management

pesticide containers ready for recycling

Pesticide Container Recycling Continues in 2020

The plastic from recycled containers is used to make industry-approved products such as pallets, drain tile, underground utility conduit, landscape edging, and nursery pots. Instead of adding them to a landfill, consider recycling your containers this year.

Why Do We Not Have an Estate Plan?

For quite a few farmers and ranchers, the thought of retiring is likely not something that they want to consider. So, if I’m not retiring, why would I complete an estate plan?

TAPS Competitors Make Planting Decisions for 2020 Season

Even in these uncertain times with COVID-19 the TAPS competitions, like many other farming operations, has moved forward with their 2020 planting. Participants had to make the crucial decisions for hybrid and seeding rate to use in the competition by April 10th.

pivot irrigation system operating in a corn field

Center Pivot Safety, an Essential Part of a Satisfying and Profitable Year

Pivots have several potential hazards, making it important to review safety procedures each year with every person on the farm. Every person that will operate the system should read all the safety instructions in the machine’s manual or be trained by a knowledgeable trainer.

Crop Report

USDA NASS: Corn Planting at 61%, Soybean at 32%

Approximately 61% of the state’s corn was planted as of Sunday, according to USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. This is well ahead of 30% last year and 38% for the five-year average. Emerged was 9%, ahead of 1% last year, and near the average of 5%.