Alfalfa field during summer
Fall-planted alfalfa needs at least four to six weeks of growth before the first frost to establish a strong root system, with proper seeding depth and weed control being key to its success.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Fall Planting Alfalfa and Winter Annual Forages

September 3, 2024
Tips for selecting suitable alfalfa varieties for successful establishment before winter, and deciding between rye, triticale and wheat for fall seeding.

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Oat field at sunset
Historical small grains data for Nebraska is available at USDA.

USDA NASS to Collect 2024 Small Grain Production and Stocks Data

August 23, 2024
The results of the small grains survey are used by numerous agencies within the agricultural industry to make a wide range of decisions that benefit producers.

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Tractor and grain truck harvesting silage
Though delaying small grain harvest can produce higher yields, it also decreases crude protein content. Producers should consider the animal being fed and feeding method before harvesting to get the most out of these crops.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Preparing for First Cutting Alfalfa, Small Grain Harvest Strategies

May 14, 2024
With the first harvest of 2024 beginning soon, producers should take this time to perform equipment maintenance and strategize the timing of alfalfa and small grains harvest based on operational needs.

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Roller crimper
Crimping rye at a mild angle using a roller crimper. (CropWatch file photo by Rich Little)

Farmers Invited to Attend Roller Crimper Workshop June 5

May 10, 2024
This short program will include a roller crimper demo, discussion on what conditions must be met to be successful with this termination method, and insights from farmers on their experiences with crimping.

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Oat field
Historical small grains data for Nebraska is available at USDA.

2023 Small Grain County-level Estimates

December 19, 2023
County-level estimates for 2023 small grain acreage, yield and production are now available on the Quick Stats online database.

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Oat field
Results of the small grains survey will be published in several reports, including the annual Small Grains Summary and the quarterly Grain Stocks report, both to be released on Friday, Sept. 29.

USDA NASS to Collect 2023 Small Grain Production and Stocks Data

August 18, 2023
During the first two weeks of September, Nebraska growers of wheat, oats, barley and rye will be asked to share their acreage, yield and production data, to be utilized by USDA for administering federal farm programs.

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Oat field

USDA NASS to Collect 2022 Small Grain Production and Stocks Data

August 19, 2022
During the first two weeks of September, growers of small grains around the country will be contacted by USDA NASS to measure 2022 acreage, yield and production for small grains.

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cover crops in a field

Seeding Rates for Broadcasting Cover Crops Into Late-season Corn and Soybean

August 31, 2022
The middle to end of September is a good time to establish cover crops by broadcasting seeds into corn or soybean before harvest, which allows the crop to capture more sunshine, growing degree days and rainfall.

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