Soil Management

Find more information in the Soil Management to Optimize Crop Production in Nebraska section of CropWatch.

Stained wheat root in microscopic image

How Does Soil Life Contribute to Soil Health?

March 28, 2024
How is healthy soil created? In this article, soil health experts explain how plants and soil organisms interact to compose and decompose organic matter, cycle nutrients, and build the structure of soils.

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FarmBits Podcast: Technology for Soil Health, Part 2

March 12, 2024
In this episode, the FarmBits crew continues its soil health conversation with Caro Córdova, discussing the soil microbiome and ways for producers to learn more about soil science and health.

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Man stands near rainfall simulator during presentation
The Nebraska Soil Health School at UNL’s High Plains Ag Lab will include soil health demonstrations and the live rainfall simulator from USDA NRCS soil scientists. (Photo by Nicole Heldt)

Dryland Cropping Systems to be Focus of Upcoming Nebraska Soil Health School

March 11, 2024
The first Nebraska Soil Health School of 2024 will feature presentations on the impact of tillage, biochar and cover crops, soil health measurement and carbon markets, and more.

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FarmBits Podcast: Technology for Soil Health, Part 1

March 1, 2024
In this episode, the FarmBits team chats with Caro Córdova about emerging soil health technologies and resources for producers in Nebraska.

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Tire tracks in muddy clay soil
Producers who struggle with poor drainage in gumbo soil have several options for improving water retention and overall soil health. One beneficial practice is manure application, which helps reduce bulk density and improves soil aggregation.

The Soil Health Exchange: Addressing Waterlogging Issues with Soil Health Management

January 30, 2024
Fields with diverse soil types can pose distinct challenges in water management, especially under pivot irrigation. In this article, UNL experts review factors that contribute to waterlogged soil and several practices that can improve drainage issues. 

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Collage of people attending soil health events in 2023
In a recent survey conducted by the Soil Health Team, 43% of respondents reported that they have implemented soil health practices influenced by UNL soil health events. (Image by Carolina Córdova)

UNL Soil Health Team Celebrates Year of Success in Advancing Sustainable Agriculture

January 3, 2024
Following eight successful events that stand to impact nearly 13 million acres of U.S. farmland, preparations are underway by the UNL Soil Health Team to deliver more robust sustainable ag research and innovations in 2024.

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Collage of soil and plant photos
All UNL Soil Health events include information from projects across the state, either on research or producers’ fields, empowering Nebraska producers with cutting-edge soil health practices.

2024 Nebraska Soil Health Conferences: Beyond the Topsoil

December 14, 2023
The 2024 Soil Health Conferences will take place in West Point and Hastings, offering the latest advancements and research in soil health and cover crop practices.

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Combine harvesting corn field
The annual Crop Production Clinics are customized to address topics specific to the diverse growing areas across Nebraska, allowing attendees to engage with research-based information on the issues that may be faced locally.

2024 Crop Production Clinics Begin Jan. 3

December 5, 2023
The 2024 Crop Production Clinics will provide Nebraska producers with research and training on management of soil fertility, water and irrigation, insect pests, plant diseases, weeds, cropping systems, and agribusiness concerns.

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