Nebraska Drought Decreases; Forecast for Cooler, Wetter Conditions
August 24, 2017
Cooler and sometimes wet conditions continue in the forecast for Nebraska. And, with Hurricane Harvey barreling into the Texas coast, there are likely to be waves of rain in the eastern Corn Belt and changing conditions that may bring an early freeze to some areas there.
Leased Pastures During Drought
August 4, 2017
Are you grazing cattle on rented pastures? If so, the current drought or abnormally dry conditions may force some important decisions.
Should You Hay or Cut Silage from Drought-Damaged Corn Fields
July 28, 2017
Drought conditions across much of Nebraska will limit grain yields in dryland corn this year, leading growers to look at other options for harvesting value from these fields. In some cases, harvesting this plant material may contribute to nutrient and water removal from the soil and may not be the best solution for your rotation or cropping system.
Making Silage from Dry Corn
July 28, 2017
Most dryland corn fields may be too dry for making the best silage. Dry silage is difficult to pack well enough to force out all the oxygen and it often spoils, lowering its energy and protein digestibility. It also can heat up, leading to spontaneous combustion fires.
Emergency Haying and Grazing Resources
July 28, 2017
In response to the growing area of drought in Nebraska, emergency haying and grazing of CRP acres is being allowed in most counties. Other drought-based resources now available include haying of highway rights-of-way and the Hay and Forage Hotline.
Dry/Drought Area Expands in Nebraska
July 20, 2017
The July 18 Drought Monitor for Nebraska reflected a decline in conditions from last week. Three-quarters of the state was either abnormally dry (49.5%) or in moderate (24%) to severe drought (less than 1 %).
Forage Options with Damaged Corn
July 18, 2017
Spotty rains and drought conditions in some areas of the state as well as hail and wind damage are leading growers to seek alternative uses for rainfed corn fields. Fortunately, there are several forage alternatives.
Abnormally Dry Area Expands to 68% of Nebraska
June 30, 2017
Dry areas expanded in Nebraska for the second straight week with 68% of the state now labeled as "abnormally dry" by the US Drought Monitor.