![While most areas in Nebraska have received good snowfall or rain this winter, there is always some uncertainty for spring and summer precipitation. So, the key first step in devising a successful spring and summer grazing and forage strategy is to develop or adjust a good drought plan for your operation. Cattle grazing pasture under storm clouds](https://cropwatch.unl.edu/styles/large/public/images/hero/2024/cattle-grazing-storm.png?itok=wIRgCo1a)
Pasture and Forage Minute: Understanding Fall Dormancy in Alfalfa, Planning Summer Grazing
February 27, 2024
Extension educators share growth impacts of fall dormancy in alfalfa and recommendations for building your spring and summer grazing and forage plans.
Army Cutworm Scouting Urged in Western Nebraska Wheat and Alfalfa
March 6, 2024
With recent warm weather, army cutworms have been spotted in southern Sioux County and central Lincoln County. Producers should begin scouting for this pest to mitigate crop damage, particularly in winter wheat and alfalfa.
![Historical crop values for Nebraska are available at <a href="https://usda.library.cornell.edu/concern/publications/k35694332" target="_blank">USDA</a>. Mature wheat field](https://cropwatch.unl.edu/styles/large/public/images/hero/2024/wheat.jpeg?itok=m4Bj4s5Y)
Nebraska Crop Values for 2023
February 27, 2024
While the overall value of Nebraska's 2023 crops is down 11% from 2022, the state's winter wheat production value is up 16%.
![Drought adds another layer of complication to the process of establishing fair pasture rental rates. Landowners renting pasture in severe drought-impacted regions might consider pricing leases based on grazing animal unit months or rent per head per month of grazing, rather than flat rates per acre or cow-calf pair. Gated fence on Nebraska pasture](https://cropwatch.unl.edu/styles/large/public/images/hero/2024/nebraska-pasture-gate.png?itok=Cg2xk18u)
Pasture and Forage Minute: Pasture Leasing Rates and Alfalfa Winter Survival
February 22, 2024
Extension educators share insights on establishing pasture rental rates and selecting alfalfa seed for winter survival traits.
Pasture and Forage Minute: Considerations for Feed After Calving, Adding Legumes to Pastures
February 12, 2024
Tips on meeting nutrient requirements of cows after calving season and improving pasture production by frost seeding or interseeding legumes.
![Historical crop production reports for Nebraska are available at <a href="https://usda.library.cornell.edu/concern/publications/tm70mv177" target="_blank">USDA</a>. Proso millet and peas side by side](https://cropwatch.unl.edu/styles/large/public/images/hero/2024/2024-01-19-crop-production-nass.jpg?itok=DncXsDkM)
Nebraska 2023 Annual Crop Production Summary
January 18, 2024
Proso millet took the lead for 2023 crop production in Nebraska, increasing 203% over the prior year. Dry edible pea and sorghum estimates also reflect a significant boost in the state's production, increasing 178% and 139%, respectively.
Pasture and Forage Minute: Record-keeping for Taxes, Selecting Alfalfa Varieties
January 9, 2024
It's time for another tax season. Agricultural Economics Extension Educator Shannon Sand shares tips on getting prepared for the March 1 deadline. Plus, considerations for selecting alfalfa varieties.
Pasture and Forage Minute: Considerations for Grazing After Fall Fertilizers, Using Alfalfa as Protein Supplement
December 6, 2023
Extension insights on grazing crop residue following fertilizer applications and using alfalfa as a protein supplement in winter feed.