Pasture and Forage Minute

Yucca plants, also called small soapweed, are common weeds in western and central Nebraska rangelands. In some areas, high plant density can significantly reduce grass production; so yucca may need managed to reclaim grazinglands. Todd Whitney, Nebraska Irrigation and Cropping Systems Forage Educator.

What does it cost to rent pasture this year? The 2025 results are out for Nebraska cash rental rates. Shannon Sand, Nebraska Ag Economics Extension Educator.

As we enter a period of hotter and drier weather, grasshoppers will begin to move into crops from field edges. In the coming weeks, be sure to scout your fields to ensure defoliation from grasshopper feeding is kept at a minimum. Samantha Daniel, Nebraska Extension Crops and Water Educator.

Summer thunderstorms can quickly turn good hay drying weather into wet windrows. That does not mean the hay is a total loss, but rain on cut forage can reduce both yield and quality. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

Clean water is critical for cattle health, especially during heat events. However, dry conditions can make water quality worse. As water evaporates, salts and minerals become more concentrated. In some locations, this can cause cattle to limit intake, refuse water, or develop health issues. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.