Nebraska Corn Production Risk by County Using Crop Insurance Data
July 13, 2016
Farmers know that yield risks vary across the state; however, the ability to compare yield risk between counties is new. Using crop insurance premium calculation data, we can quantify the expected insurance payment (or indemnities) by evaluating the county crop insurance reference rate. A high reference rate value implies higher historical payments and consequently more production risk and a higher crop insurance premium. Lower reference rates imply lower risk and lower premiums. Risk varies widely from one end of the state to the other, highlighting the need to consider general recommendations broadly and customize decisions to your data and situation. County-level risk maps for irrigated and non-irrigated corn production in Nebraska are included.
Begin Scouting for Western Bean Cutworm Eggs in Corn
July 8, 2016
The first western bean cutworm moths were captured in University of Nebraska-Lincoln black light traps June 23 at Clay Center, June 27 at North Platte, and June 30 at Scottsbluff. Flights are currently increasing, particularly in North Platte. Scouting should be underway across much of the state.
Scout for Emerging Western Corn Rootworm Beetles
July 5, 2016
Western corn rootworm beetles began emerging in southeast and south central Nebraska during the last week in June. Beetles typically emerge somewhat later in northeastern and western Nebraska. Scouting should be underway to determine field presence and possible need for treatment.
Japanese Beetles Emerging; Identification Key to Management
July 1, 2016
Japanese beetle adults are beginning to emerge in eastern Nebraska and have been reported feeding in corn and soybean. Here's how to differentiate them from the look-alike sand chafers and treatment thresholds to determine when treatment is recommended.
2016 Corn Yield Forecasts: Approach and Interpretation of Results
June 30, 2016
The Yield Forecasting Center will be providing in-season corn yield forecasts every two weeks starting in mid-July to aid growers and the ag industry in making management, logistics, and marketing decisions through the season. The Center consists of a core team at UNL in collaboration with agronomists and extension educators from universities throughout the Corn Belt.
Scout Field Borders for Grasshoppers
June 30, 2016
Populations of immature grasshoppers are being reported in areas bordering crop fields in several parts of eastern Nebraska. If these grasshopper species are one of the four major species that are likely to infest cropland, control may be warranted. Check here are scouting guide and treatment thresholds and recommendations.
Using Degree-Days to Predict Western Bean Cutworm Flights
June 24, 2016
Accumulated degree-days offer a proven means for estimating when to scout for insects, including the western bean cutworm. Here's how to estimate insect growth and recommended dates to start scouting for WBC at 14 Nebraska sites.
Impacts of Extreme Heat Stress and Increased Soil Temperature on Plant Growth and Development
June 21, 2016
Both corn and soybean are susceptible to extreme heat (and water) stress during early vegetative stages as well as later critical growth stages (pollination for corn and flowering for soybean). Extreme heat stress can reduce plant photosynthetic and transpiration efficiencies and negatively impact plant root development, which collectively can negatively impact yield. The author recommends that during an extended heat wave (air temperature equal to or greater than 90 F for 7-10 days), applying 0.25-0.40 inch of water can be very beneficial.