Pasture and Forage Minute

While we are still early in the new year, it is time to start thinking about any spring annual forages that we might plant. Part of the process may be anticipating a need for extra feed or booking seed early for possible discounts. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

So far this year, much of Nebraska has yet to receive measurable snowfall. Hopefully this pattern doesn’t last too long as the benefits of snow cover to winter forages, especially alfalfa, are significant. Samantha Daniel, Nebraska Extension Crops and Water Educator.

Are you considering establishing a new alfalfa stand this coming spring? Site selection, proper weed management, good fertilization and seedbed preparation are all crucial steps for a successful stand. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

As we kick off the new year, people often take time to look back on the past and make plans or resolutions for what’s to come. We can do our own planning for forage production in 2025. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

As the new year begins, it is important to look back at pasture and forage production condition to understand what to focus on for the coming year. Stick around and I’ll reflect on forage and pasture production conditions in 2024. Daren Redfearn, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Specialist.

Cover crops can be grown for many purposes including: weed suppression; nitrogen benefits and soil health improvement. For some growers, cover crops may be grazed, bailed or harvested as silage. Based on your cover crop needs it's important to choose the cover crop termination that fits your needs. Todd Whitney, Nebraska Extension Forage Agronomist.

Here in mid-winter, cornstalks remain a great forage resource for livestock producers. So far, snowfall across most of Nebraska has been minimal. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

Do you have a verbal cropland or pasture lease? If so, there are key dates and rules you must follow for terminating these leases. Shannon Sand, Nebraska Extension Agricultural Economist.

Early response is key to controlling volunteer Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) in range and pastures. Seed producing female trees can move overrun a pasture within 6 – 7 years. Todd Whitney, Nebraska Extension Crops and Forage Educator.

How much feed or hay do you have going into winter? Will you have enough feed to provide for current cattle numbers? An inventory now before winter hits full swing could be helpful. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.