A field of corn residue in Gage County that was burned by fire in October 2024. Intensifying drought conditions have been a concern throughout the 2024 harvest season, particularly in mid-October when high winds created the perfect scenario for wildfires to start and spread rapidly. Numerous fires have been reported in Nebraska since early October. (Photo by Matheus Pires de Mello Ribeiro/Nebraska Extension)
Extension Educator Jenny Rees shares insights on the nutrient value of crop residue and soil impacts following fires and dry conditions across the state of Nebraska.
A corn field affected by fire during the 2022 harvest season in Cedar County. (Photo by Mitiku Mamo)
Nebraska Extension recommendations for crops impacted by fire damage, highlighting grain and feed options for unharvested corn, what to expect of soil nutrient loss and techniques to avoid soil erosion.
There are numerous organizations that offer assistance to farmers and ranchers for recovery from natural disasters, from hay and forage for livestock to help with planting and harvesting crops.
Soil testing is the only way to accurately identify and monitor soybean cyst nematode, which may be the cause of unidentifiable yield loss during fall harvest.
The latest forecast includes another elevated risk of wildfires early next week. Check these tips to ensure you're prepared to act quickly if a fire ignites during harvest operations.
Warmer temperatures may return early next week, with record highs possible. More rain is tentatively forecasted for next weekend, with hopes for additional moisture in November.
Unlock financial success at Ag Smart Money Week — join free in-person and virtual sessions tailored for farmers and ranchers to improve financial management, reduce production costs, and handle risks with confidence.
Estate planning with life insurance can provide a fair inheritance for all heirs, keeping keep farm succession plans smooth and balanced for all family members.
Learn how farmers can use life insurance to divide assets between "on-farm" and "off-farm" heirs, ensuring a fair distribution of assets upon passing of the insured.
Though the farm finance and ag law clinics are offered monthly at sites across Nebraska, remote sessions are another option — call the number below to arrange a one-on-one meeting via phone or virtual platform.
Offered since 1989, these clinics offer guidance to farmers and ranchers on a wide variety of issues pertaining to ag business ownership. Sessions are confidential and conducted in-person, with four dates in October and November.
Farm Management
Cattle and calf graze in pasture south of Scottsbluff. (Photo by Miranda Mueller)
This Nov. 5 workshop will equip landlords and tenants with up-to-date management strategies for agricultural land leases, including key data on land values and cash rental rates.
Start a transition plan now for the next generation. (Photo by Natalie Jones, IANR Media)
New in 2024, the WildAg podcast is a UNL collaboration that brings insight to listeners on the vital connections between conservation and agriculture.
Husker research into sorghum's natural self-defenses benefits from the university's “holistic” multidisciplinary approach, said Joe Louis, Harold W. Eberhard Professor of Agricultural Entomology. That wide-ranging research method pinpointed a key plant hormone that strengthens sorghum's self-protection against a major threat, the sugarcane aphid. (Photo by Craig Chandler, University Communication and Marketing)
UNL researchers have identified a hormone that boosts sorghum's resistance to the sugarcane aphid, offering a sustainable pest control option through enhanced natural defenses.
Forage Production
Producers facing market volatility are considering hunting as a potential income source, but clarity on hunting rights in leases is crucial, as these rights typically default to tenants unless explicitly reserved for landlords.
While drought continues to cause a slow decline in soil moisture and pasture conditions, the dry weather has kept harvest on schedule — dry beans and soybean will finish soon, and corn is ahead of average pace.
Historical crop progress data for Nebraska is available at USDA. (Photo by Gary Stone/Nebraska Extension)
Professionals who help farmers in decision-making are encouraged to share their opinions and experiences on cover crop utilization to enhance ag programs, education, research and other industry initiatives.
In Case You Missed It...
Figure 1. An adult soybean tentiform leafminer. While STL has infested fields in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota since 2021, the soybean pest has now been discovered in Nebraska. (All photos by Wayne Ohnesorg)
A new soybean pest has moved into Nebraska — the soybean tentiform leafminer was positively identified in a Madison County field last month. At present, there are no known management methods for this insect.
Remember that fires can still occur despite taking every available precaution, so keep a fire extinguisher in the combine cab and don't forget your cell phone at home.
With drought conditions increasing in Nebraska, farmers are encouraged to review these fire prevention measures and remain alert to ensure a safe harvest season.
