2017 Field Pea Variety Trial Results
October 19, 2017
The 2017 university field pea variety trials have been posted to CropWatch and include results from seven plots with up to 25 varieties at each location. The varieties are grouped in three categories: older, robust lines; newer, higher yielding lines just coming to market; and new lines in development.
Perceptions of Crop Consultants and Crop Producers on Grazing Corn Residue in Nebraska
October 19, 2017
A new journal article by University of Nebraska-Lincoln researchers reports on the results of a survey asking consultants and growers about what factors influence their thinking on grazing crop residue. The report notes that while corn residue grazing is a longstanding practice in the state, currently only about 25% of the state's corn residue is being grazed.
Drones Buzzing Toward Increased Crop Production
October 18, 2017
A new research project funded by a $500,000 USDA grant and support from the University's Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute seeks to deploy unmanned aircraft (drones) in search of improved crop irrigation efficiency. The project will conduct regular drone flights throughout the season, using advanced remote sensing systems and in-field sensors to collect data.
Establishing a Western Bean Cutworm Colony in the Laboratory
October 4, 2017
The western bean cutworm is an important pest of corn and dry beans in Nebraska and is a major focus of research at the Agroecosystems Entomology Laboratory at the West Central Research and Extension Center in North Platte. Because WBC has only one generation per year, researchers are now growing their own population to use in laboratory and field studies.
USDA Researchers Create Soft Durum Wheat
September 29, 2017
Soft Svevo, a new soft durum wheat variety developed by USDA Agricultural Research Service scientists and their collaborators, could expand the market for wheat.
Researching What Could be Tomorrow's Problem Corn Ear Pest
September 13, 2017
Nebraska and Brazilian entomology researchers have joined to study current and expected corn insect pests and how management strategies can be changed to address population shifts.
Field Studies: What do you mean 5 bushels per acre is not significant?
September 5, 2017
On-farm research offers opportunities for testing practices or products under grower field conditions, but how do you determine when the results are statistically different and reliable or due to other factors.
Biodegradable Biomulch Studied for Environmental Benefits
August 15, 2017
Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln are testing a new plastic sheet that can be used as a biodegradable mulch. Developed by 3M, the plastic is made from polylactic acid derived from corn, not petroleum, making it a likely candidate for organic vegetable production.