All

January 2024 Climate Summary

February 14, 2024

A prolonged polar vortex caused below-average temperatures and above-average precipitation last month, which had the added benefit of improving drought conditions in eastern Nebraska.

Combine in corn field — Results of the 2022 Census of Agriculture are now available on the USDA NASS website.

USDA NASS Announces Release of 2022 Census of Agriculture

February 14, 2024

Though the numbers of farms in Nebraska was down slightly in 2022, the value of ag products has risen by 34% since 2017.

Burned farm implement in field — An upcoming four-part extension workshop for women in agriculture will focus on emergency preparedness for rural families. (Adobe Stock photo)

Extension to Host Multi-state Emergency Preparedness Workshop Series for Rural Families

February 12, 2024

Hosted by local extension personnel in five locations across Nebraska, the workshop series will focus on farm and ranch emergency management, first aid, fire protection and hazardous materials.

Young palmer amaranth weed in a field plot at the West Central Research, Education and Extension Center in North Platte. (Photo by Milos Zaric)

Updates on Dicamba Products (Engenia, Tavium and XtendiMax) Applied in Dicamba-tolerant Soybean in Nebraska

February 12, 2024

UPDATED: Extension advises Nebraska soybean producers on the 2024 growing season after a Feb. 6 federal court ruling vacated registrations of dicamba-based herbicides Xtendimax, Engenia and Tavium.

Sawfly traps in field — Sawfly traps without the nets stand in wheat fields at the High Plains Ag Lab near Sidney. The traps are part of ongoing research on the wheat stem sawfly. (Photo by Chabella Guzman)

High Plains Ag Lab Meeting to Focus on Research Updates

February 12, 2024

The Feb. 15 meeting will include updates on HPAL winter wheat fertility research and alternative crops breeding, wheat stem sawfly initiatives, TAPS wheat contest results, commodity marketing, HPAL 2022 crop production review and more.

Closeup of man preparing tax forms — IRS Section 180 allows landowners to treat the residual fertility present in the soil at the time of purchase as a deductible cost. Though the deduction should be filed during the year of land purchase, landowners may be able to file an amended tax return for a previous tax year. It’s important to consult your CPA or tax advisor to understand your options and file accordingly.

Pasture and Forage Minute: A Closer Look at Section 180, Forage Inventory Season

February 6, 2024

With recent land purchases, many Nebraska producers are seeking to better understand IRS Section 180 tax deductions. This article provides a review of the tax code and its potential financial implications for landowners of newly acquired land.

Cattle eating hay during winter — Properly testing hay and adjusting mineral and livestock diets during the winter are important steps in minimizing the risk of issues like tetany and nitrate poisoning.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Considerations for Pasture Leases and Winter Hay Nutrition

January 30, 2024

Extension educators review factors that affect the success of pasture grazing leases, and how to avoid toxicity and malnutrition through livestock feed during the winter.

Weekly Weather Outlook and Update: Feb. 2, 2024

February 2, 2024

Nebraska will see mild temperatures continue into next week, with chances of precipitation this weekend and again next Thursday, Feb. 8.