Pasture and Forage Minute

If you're planning to seed alfalfa this year, one of the most important decisions you'll make happens before the planter ever rolls; and that's variety selection. Disease resistance should be part of that decision, especially when it comes to Phytophthora root rot and anthracnose. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

As pasture grazing leases are getting finalized for the 2026 season, it is important to make sure that some of the key details are clear and in writing. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

Grass tetany and nitrate poisoning are issues that we typically associate with animals grazing. However, both issues can be a problem in winter when animal diets are limited by what they are fed. Is your herd safe from possible hay worries?

Are you looking to increase production from pastures or hay fields? Frost seeding or interseeding legumes might just work in your operation. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

Are you planning to establish a new alfalfa stand this spring? Site selection, weed control, fertility, and seedbed preparation all matter—but variety selection plays a major role in determining how that stand performs over time. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

Most of Nebraska has seen very little snow, with seasonal totals 1-12 inches below average in the east and 12-30 inches below average in the west. The absence of snow and the recent mild temperatures can have a significant impact on alfalfa when temperatures eventually drop. Samantha Daniel, Nebraska Extension Crops and Water Educator.