In light of current market dynamics, there has been growing interest in converting marginal dryland crop acres to perennial pasture. Additionally, several government and non-governmental organizations have cost-share dollars available to help facilitate the establishment of perennial forages. To address this opportunity, Nebraska Extension and the Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition will host programs on Monday, March 16, in Kimball, and on Tuesday, March 17, in Rushville.
The programs will begin at 2 p.m. MT and focus on agronomic practices and cost-share opportunities for establishing perennial forages. The first hour and a half will feature presentations with ample time for questions, followed by a panel discussion with area producers sharing personal experiences in establishing perennial forages.
Topics and presenters include:
- Practical considerations for establishing perennial forages on former cropland — Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension specialist
- Available cost-share opportunities through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and keys to success — Kristen Dickinson (Kimball NRCS); Cody Gibbons (Rushville NRCS)
- Available cost-share opportunities through the Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition (NRCS) — Jack Arterburn, NGLC Western Nebraska program coordinator
- What worked, what didn’t and what we would do differently now — producer panel of area farmers and ranchers
There is no cost to attend, but advance registration is requested. To register, call or email the contact for your preferred host site:
- March 16 at Kimball County Transit Meeting Room, 233 S. Chestnut St., Kimball — contact Aaron Berger, 308-235-3122
- March 17 at Sheridan County Extension Office, 800 South Loofborrow St., Rushville — contact Brock Ortner, 308-327-2312
