Figure 1. Grazing cover crops planted after corn harvest can be a win-win situation for both crop and livestock producers. An April 4 Nebraska Extension field day will explore some of the challenges and opportunities and showcase recent university research on implementing the system in eastern Nebraska.
Figure 1. Grazing cover crops planted after corn harvest can be a win-win situation for both crop and livestock producers. An April 4 Nebraska Extension field day will explore some of the challenges and opportunities and showcase recent university research on implementing the system in eastern Nebraska.

April 4 Conference to Focus on Capturing Value of Cover Crops as Forages

March 7, 2018
A Nebraska Extension conference and field day, “Capturing Value in Cropping Systems using Cattle,” will offer a unique learning and networking opportunity for cattle and crop producers in eastern Nebraska.

Read more

Chart showing tiller numbers of two varieties of indiangrass

Does Seeding Rate Affect Establishment-Year Growth and Long-term Forage Yield of Indiangrass?

February 5, 2018
Recent improvements in forage yield and nutritive value of indiangrass, along with its wide range of adaptation should increase its use in bioenergy and forage production, conservation practices, and reclamation projects in the central Great Plains. This study tested five seeding rates with two varieties — 'Oto' and 'NE 54' — and the effects on dry matter production

Read more

Economics of Annual and Perennial Forages Webinar Feb. 13

February 4, 2018
With current corn prices and the limited availability of perennial grass, some producers are asking themselves if growing forages on cropland might be the answer to feeding the cow herd. A webinar to address these questions in addition to showing economic examples will be held Tuesday evening, February 13, from 6:00-7:30 p.m. CST.

Read more

How Freezes Affect Forages

October 3, 2017
Frost can causes important changes in plant metabolism and composition, making forages a hazard to cattle for several days after a freeze.

Read more

Drying Sorghums and Millets for Baling

August 4, 2017
Drying sorghums, sudans, and millets enough to bale can be a challenge in some summers. The author offers several steps to improve cutting and dry-down.

Read more

Adjusting Forage Management for Summer Heat

July 18, 2017

The current heat wave is taking a toll on forage plants, particularly cool-season plants. Alfalfa and clovers, bromegrass, orchardgrass, fescues, needlegrasses, and wheatgrasses all struggle during hot weather, but adjusting your management can limit the stress from stressful weather.

Read more

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.

Read more

Options for Forage Following Wheat

June 16, 2017
If you still have good moisture after wheat harvest, planting a forage crop may be a good option.

Read more