Chuck Francis KCR 101
Lincoln NE 68583-0817
402-472-1581
cfrancis2@unl.edu

Faculty Bio

Sorghum field
Sorghum growing in a research field on the northeast edge of Lincoln. A Nebraska team recently tested whether the method of delivering soil- and root-dwelling bacteria to sorghum could influence the growth of the cereal grain. (Photo by Craig Chandler, University Communication and Marketing)

Performance of Crop-boosting Bacteria May Depend on Delivery Method

July 29, 2022
A recent Nebraska study discovered that the most effective methods for promoting crop growth depends on the type of soil bacteria being introduced.

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Cercospora
Cercospora on a sugarbeet plant.

Cercospora Leaf Spot Detected in Sugarbeets

July 29, 2022
Periods of high humidity or extended leaf wetness and warm temperatures create the optimal conditions for cercospora leaf spot to develop.

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Bioprocessing facility
The POET Bioprocessing facility near Fairmont, Nebraska. (Photo courtesy Nebraska Ethanol Board)

Study Shows Nebraska’s Ethanol Industry Continues to Expand

July 28, 2022
Producing over 2.25 billion gallons in 2019, Nebraska continues to rank as the second-largest ethanol-producing state in the nation.

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August temp outlook

Weekly Agricultural Weather Update — July 26, 2022

July 28, 2022
Another round of extended heat is likely for the first week of August, with the possibility for precipitation beginning Aug. 6.

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Corn plant

Crop Progress: Nebraska Crop Conditions Take Slight Downturn

July 27, 2022
Hot, dry conditions led to a minor decrease in crop health last week in Nebraska, and winter wheat harvest neared the finish line.

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Drought-stressed corn
If considering drought-stressed corn for livestock feed this year, remember to check the labels of any chemicals applied to the corn for grazing, haying or harvesting restrictions.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Managing Volunteer Wheat, Drought-stressed Corn Options

July 27, 2022
Solutions for managing volunteer wheat in cooperation with neighbors, grazing heat-stressed forages and deciding on a course for drought-stressed corn.

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FarmBits episode banner

FarmBits Podcast Features Nebraska Extension, On-Farm Research Initiatives

July 26, 2022
Highlighting extension and Nebraska ONRN research on precision ag technologies designed to help Nebraska farmers make important, timely management decisions. 

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Water droplets

Estimated Crop Water Use: July 25

July 25, 2022
Estimated crop water use for Nebraska Panhandle crops for the week of July 25.

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