Range and Forage

Drought conditions in the Nebraska Panhandle region persist, with many areas receiving limited precipitation in April. Nebraska Extension Beef Educator Aaron Berger says weak market prices have made grazing wheat an alternative forage option this spring. 

Early blooming leafy spurge in pastures has become a serious problem for many producers across the state. Nebraska Extension Forage Educator Ben Beckman says leafy spurge is an abundant seed producer and control actions should be taken now before weed populations get out of control.

Wildfire is a natural component of Northern Great Plains grassland ecosystem, and most pastures and rangelands will comeback with proper management. Nebraska Extension Educator Bethany Johnston talks timing and grazing management, following a fire.

Grasshopper populations can vary from season to season, with the highest numbers expected in areas with little rainfall or prolonged drought. Nebraska Extension Educator Dave Boxler talks about grasshopper damage and what producers should be thinking about for the 2025 growing season to help control them. 

Eastern red cedar trees can quickly take over pasture and rangeland if not monitored properly. Extension Educator Bethany Johnson talks about how red cedar trees spread and what farmers can do to stop the takeover. 

Winter drought conditions have left many pastures struggling to green up this spring. Extension Educators Ben Beckman and Ryan Benjamin say landowners and renters should consider a drought or disaster clause in this year’s lease agreements. 

Drought conditions in central and western Nebraska have made it ideal for Yucca plants commonly known as “Soap Weed” to thrive. Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Specialist Jerry Volesky talks about controlling Yucca in rangeland and how to reclaiming it with grasses.