Alfalfa Weevil Feeding on Regrowth
Since the first cutting of alfalfa has been completed in much of the state, Nebraska producers may be tempted to believe our troubles with alfalfa weevil are over. Unfortunately, this may not be the case. Alfalfa weevil feeding on regrowth has been reported in some fields, so scouting is highly recommended, particularly if you notice that regrowth doesn’t begin within four to five days after cutting.
Alfalfa plants usually suffer the most injury and economic damage before the first cutting; however, feeding on regrowth can have impacts as well. While larvae cause the most damage, adults can also cause damage by feeding along leaf margins and leaving irregular notches. Adult beetles are roughly 5mm in length with a blunt snout and a brown body covered in golden hairs. Larvae are 1.5mm to 8.5mm long with a black head, wrinkled green body, and white stripe along the back and will curl into a C-shape when disturbed.
Scouting for alfalfa weevil is simple and can help mitigate economic losses. Randomly select five sites across the field and collect six stems at each site, cutting the stems at ground level. Beat the stems into a deep-sided white bucket and count the number of larvae to determine the average number per stem. Economic thresholds for alfalfa weevil can vary greatly from an average of one to seven larvae per stem, depending on a variety of factors.
While there are several insecticides labeled for alfalfa weevil management, some Nebraska weevil populations may be losing susceptibility to the pyrethroid lambda-cyhalothrin. Therefore, if you believe you have an infestation above threshold, contact your county extension office for further guidance.
What Does It Cost to Rent Pasture In 2026
What does it cost to rent pasture this year? 2026 results are out for Nebraska cash rental rates. According to the latest survey, average monthly rates for grazing pasture have increased between 2% and 8% compared to the previous grazing season.
The north reporting district primarily the Sandhills has the highest average cow-calf pair monthly rate at $82.10. The northeast and central districts are not far behind at $77.35 and $74.60 per month, respectively. The northwest district (the Panhandle) had the lowest rates at just over $56.45 per month. Elsewhere in Nebraska, rates generally fall in the $60 to $69 per month range.
Pasture rent can vary for many reasons. Landlord involvement in fencing, water and management responsibilities has a significant impact, as does grassland quality, pasture location, and cattle size. Tradition, individual relationships, and local demand may also influence rates.
Whether you are looking to rent pasture or have pasture available, a written lease agreement is essential. These agreements can include a number of stipulations, but at minimum should specify the number of cattle, the length of the grazing period (or stocking rate), and how a drought or other unforeseen event will be handled.
Controlling Yucca on Rangeland
Yucca plants, which are also called soapweed, can be quite common on rangeland in western and central Nebraska. They are especially noticeable in June when flowering. In some areas, they can be quite thick and significantly reduce grass production. However, there are ways to reclaim those grazinglands.
Once established, yucca plants can increase on drier rangeland sites. They produce a deep taproot that competes aggressively for the limited water in these soils. With sharp leaves protecting the plant, cattle rarely eat it during summer. Grass production decreases while yucca thrives.
Herbicides like Remedy Ultra®, PastureGard HL®, Pathfinder II®, Tordon®, Velpar, or Cimarron Plus® can control yucca, but only when each individual plant is sprayed directly. Hexazinone products like Velpar L®, Pronone Power Pellet, or Velossa® be applied to the soil uphill side of individual yucca plants with exact delivery hand-gun applicator, since pasture grass streaking injury downslope can occur with chemical movement. General broadcast spraying to control yucca on rangeland is cost prohibitive, although small patches can and should be controlled before they expand. Herbicides are most effective when applied in spring or summer. When using herbicides, be sure to follow label directions for the best control.
Some people have had some success in reducing yucca through winter grazing. During winter, yucca often is the only green plant around. Sometimes cows will get down on their knees, lay their head sideways on the ground, and chew through the base of the plant to get to the moist, tender parts. Keep it mind that it can take some time for animals to learn to graze yucca, and there may be some animals in the herd that will not graze it, while others can be quite proficient.
After several consecutive winters of grazing, yucca stands can be reduced so grass again thrives during summer.
Whether it is with herbicides or trying some winter grazing, this might be a good year to reclaim some of your pasture back from yucca.
