State's Drought Status Improves from 2008
March 27, 2009
No part of Nebraska is identified as in a drought and only 11% is identified as abnormally dry, according to the March 17 U.S. Drought Monitor. The abnormally dry area is in the western half of the Panhandle and due to hydrological dryness.
Reservoirs Filling, Still Below Normal
March 27, 2009
Reservoirs in the Platte and Republican river basins have been recovering over the past year and two are near or at capacity.
Platte River Reservoirs
Soils in Central, Eastern Nebraska near Saturation
March 27, 2009
Heavy rainfall during October 2008 left many areas of south central, central, and east central Nebraska with soil profiles that are saturated or close to field capacity in the upper 4 feet of the profile. Areas within these regions have received 8 to 12 inches of moisture from October 1, 2008 through March 19, 2009.
Thickening Old Alfalfa Stands — Consider the Risks
March 27, 2009 The other day I received a call: "How can I thicken an old stand of alfalfa with more alfalfa rather than other forages?"
Before trying to add alfalfa to alfalfa, first ask yourself "What do you have to gain, and should you even bother?"
Preparing a Firm Seedbed for Alfalfa Planting
March 27, 2009 Before planting alfalfa or grass this spring, check your seedbed to make sure it's firm.
An easy test is to walk into your field then look back at your footprints. Do you sink in more deeply than the soles of your shoes or boots? If so, your seedbed may be too soft.