Nebraska Extension Almanac Radio

Hot weather and drought can quickly increase water needs for beef cattle while reducing water quality. Nebraska Extension Beef Educator Troy Walz says making sure cattle have enough clean, fresh water is one of the most important steps producers can take to maintain herd health and performance during the summer.

Summer heat can take a toll on cattle, but management strategies can help. Kansas State Extension Beef Veterinarian AJ Tarpoff says providing shade and limit feeding a high-energy ration can improve animal comfort and efficiency while also reducing water use during periods of heat stress.

Looking for another source of farm income? Leasing land for hunting rights may be an option. Nebraska Extension Ag Economist Jim Jansen says a well-written hunting lease can provide added revenue while clearly outlining expectations, liability, access, and responsibilities for both landowners and hunters.

Hot weather can have a huge impact on cattle performance and health. Nebraska Extension Beef Educator Alfredo DiConstanzo encourages feedlot producers to have hot weather plans in place to reduce heat stress in cattle.

Extreme summer heat can be a cause for concern for feedlot operators and cattle producers in Nebraska. Galen Erickson, Nebraska Extension Beef Feedlot Specialist talks about strategies to manage heat stress while maintaining performance and preventing losses.

Ultrasound is one tool that can help cattle producers make sound management decisions about whether a cow is pregnant. Extension Beef Educator Lindsay Waechter-Mead explains how ultrasound gives ranchers the information they need to make the best decisions.

Ultrasound is one tool that can help cattle producers make sound management decisions about whether a cow is pregnant. Extension Beef Educator Lindsay Waechter-Mead explains how ultrasound gives ranchers the information they need to make the best decisions.

In the final episode of this series on the tax issues surrounding forced livestock sales, Tina Barrett, Director of Nebraska Farm Business Inc., stresses the importance of good documentation and open communication with your tax preparer.

Nebraska Farm Business Inc. Director Tina Barrett recently discussed tax deferral options that may help cattle producers manage forced livestock sales. Today, she clarifies some of the rules surrounding those options.

Nebraska cattle producers face tough decisions when severe drought and recent wildfires force them to sell off part of their herd. Nebraska Farm Business Inc. Director Tina Barrett discusses tax deferral options ranchers can use to help mitigate losses.

Cattle producers are embracing emerging technologies to better manage cattle. Precision Livestock Management Specialist Yijie Xiong and Extension Range Management Specialist Mitch Stephenson discuss how GPS sensors are changing the way cattle are raised.

Promoting pollinator habitat around your home is essential for harvesting fruits and vegetables. Nebraska Extension Associate Educator Scott Evans discusses how to provide food sources for pollinators throughout the growing season.

Livestock producers often must make tough decisions because of extreme drought or wildfires to remain profitable. Tina Barrett, program manager and director of Nebraska Farm Business Inc., discusses how these decisions affect a producer’s tax issues.

Today’s program is part two of a discussion of new federal regulations on a farm’s base acres, which are used to determine some federal commodity program payments. Extension Educator and Agricultural Economist Anastasia Meyer explains the details producers should review to see whether they qualify for a recalculation.

New regulations from the Big Beautiful Bill mean some farmers may be able to recalculate their base acres. Base acres are the primary focus of federal commodity payment programs, and Extension Educator and Agricultural Economist Anastasia Meyer encourages producers not to miss this opportunity.

Nebraska farm income is projected to rise significantly this year with strong cattle prices driving much of the increase, while many crop producers continue to face tight margins and challenging economic conditions. Nebraska Extension Specialist Brad Lubben talks about Nebraska farm income projections for 2026.

Dry conditions across Nebraska are increasing concerns about pasture fires. Nebraska Extension Educators Ben Beckman and Ryan Benjamin say livestock producers should take steps now to reduce fire risk in pastures to help protect grazing resources during drought conditions.

Early season hailstorms can leave crop fields looking rough. Nebraska Extension Instructor Talon Mues says don't rush to assess the damage, corn and soybeans often respond differently to early-season hail, and waiting several days can provide a much clearer picture of recovery potential.

Wet weather and high humidity create a perfect storm for mosquito activity. Nebraska Extension Urban Entomologist Jody Green says eliminating standing water, using repellents, and wearing protective clothing can help reduce bites and keep mosquito populations under control around your home.

Nebraska farm income could see a significant boost this year, but the outlook depends on the type of operation. Nebraska Extension Ag Policy Specialist Brad Lubben says cattle producers are benefiting from record profits, while many crop producers continue to face tight margins and high production costs.

A bull’s nutrition and body condition can influence more than breeding performance. University of Georgia researcher Pedro Fontes says a sire’s condition may also affect embryo development and pregnancy success. He encourages producers to pay close attention to nutrition and body condition heading into the breeding season.

Garter snakes are common across Nebraska and are generally harmless, but many homeowners prefer not to have them around. Nebraska Extension Wildlife Specialist Dennis Ferraro says reducing cover such as tall grass, wood piles, and debris can help discourage garter snakes from taking up residence near your home.

Americans continue to show a strong appetite for beef, even with record-high prices at the meat counter. Nebraska Extension Beef Educator Alfredo DiCostanzo says consumer demand remains resilient, helping support cattle markets and providing optimism for producers.

New research from the University of Georgia suggests over-conditioned bulls may experience reduced fertility. Associate Professor Pedro Fontes says bull body condition can play an important role in breeding success, and managing weight before the breeding season could help improve reproductive performance and overall herd productivity.

Thinking about virtual fencing for your operation? Nebraska Extension is hosting a multi-state bus tour in June, giving producers a chance to see virtual fencing systems in action on ranches in Nebraska and eastern Missouri. Extension Precision Livestock Specialist Yijie Xiong says the tour offers a firsthand look at how the technology performs in real-world settings.