Forage

Alfalfa field during summer — Fall-planted alfalfa needs at least four to six weeks of growth before the first frost to establish a strong root system, with proper seeding depth and weed control being key to its success.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Fall Planting Alfalfa and Winter Annual Forages

September 3, 2024

Tips for selecting suitable alfalfa varieties for successful establishment before winter, and deciding between rye, triticale and wheat for fall seeding.

Fall armyworm on damaged leaf — Early detection of fall armyworm caterpillars is crucial, as they can cause significant crop damage once they reach ¾-inch in size. (CropWatch file photo)

Pasture and Forage Minute: Tips for Fall Armyworm Scouting and Corn Silage Harvest

August 20, 2024

Recommendations on scouting and treatment thresholds for fall armyworm, control of late summer pasture weeds, and best practices for corn silage harvest and storage.

Pasture near rock formation in western Nebraska — Pastures are only one of the feed sources producers use for livestock. (Photo by Chabella Guzman)

Annual Forage Options Following Irrigated Winter Wheat

August 15, 2024

Extension insights on forages to plant after wheat harvest in western Nebraska, where low rainfall and cool-season pasture decline is an obstacle for producers needing fall forage.

Pile of harvested corn for silage — Certain silage inoculants can significantly improve the aerobic stability of silage by reducing spoilage when it's re-exposed to air, making them especially useful for large silage piles or bunkers that are difficult to keep fresh.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Recommendations for Storing Quality Silage

August 14, 2024

Extension educators highlight the importance of using the right inoculants and storage methods for corn silage to improve fermentation, reduce spoilage and maintain feed quality.

Angus cattle feed in pasture — Attendance to the 2024 Southeast Nebraska Pasture and Acreage Expo is free to the public; see below for details on registration and program agenda.

Southeast Nebraska Pasture and Acreage Expo Set for Aug. 23

August 8, 2024

This expo will help both experienced and first-time landowners learn animal and pasture management strategies to maximize the value of their properties and livestock operations.

Cow drinking water from stocktank — Producers have a multitude of options for keeping stock tank algae at bay, from algicides and bleach to barley straw and goldfish.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Heat Effects on Alfalfa, Stock Tank Algae Control

August 5, 2024

Extension educators outline options for mitigating weeds in summer annual grasses and algae growth in stock tanks, as well as challenges that summer heat may create for alfalfa plants and harvest.

Cattle grazing spring pasture — The 2024 Forage Field Day is free to attend online, beginning at 12:30 p.m. CT on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

2024 Forage Field Day Moving Online

August 1, 2024

The 2024 Forage Field Day webinar will feature discussion and interactive sessions on sustainable forage practices, optimizing forage quality and quantity, safe silage harvest procedures, alfalfa pests and more.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Improving Alfalfa Stands and Hay Bale Storage, Water Hemlock Control

July 31, 2024

Extension tips on identifying water hemlock, interseeding grass to boost alfalfa fields, and reducing weather loss from hay bale storage.

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