Monday April 20 Ag News - ENREEC Hosts Cover Crop Training Thursday, Crop Scout Training in May - NeFB PAC Endorses Local, State Candidates - N. American Manure Expo Tours announced - NE Ag on USMCA Review - and more!

Pillen Requests Extension to Submit Information for Wildfire Damage

Governor Jim Pillen is asking officials with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for additional time to submit information relative to damage done to public infrastructure from the Morrill and Cottonwood fires. If the 30-day extension is approved, the state would have until May 27 to comply.

The information is necessary to apply for a federal disaster declaration. The Governor’s letter explains that the extension will allow the state to work with FEMA Region VII in conducting joint preliminary damage assessments (PDA) in Arthur, Dawson, Garden, Grant, Keith, Lincoln, and Morrill counties.

The Morrill and Cottonwood fires burned in excess of 770,000 acres. Efforts to assess the totality of the damage have been hampered due to additional fires in those areas, requiring fire suppression resources and complicating the ability to determine the extent of damage and where it originated.

Should a major disaster declaration be approved through FEMA, it would allow the use of federal funds to assist with costs of repairing public infrastructure damaged in the Morrill and Cottonwood fires.

The Governor’s team has been in regular touch with FEMA and President Trump’s administration, which have been incredibly responsive and helpful in the aftermath of the state’s major wildfires. Additional information will be shared concerning the disaster declaration process, as it becomes available.




Cover Crop Training to Highlight Variety Trials, Grazing and Species Selection at ENREEC

A one-day, hands-on cover crop training will be held Thursday, April 23, at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center near Mead, offering ag professionals a closer look at ongoing research and practical management strategies.

The training will showcase current studies on cover crop varieties, grazing systems and perennial cover crops, with both outdoor field tours and classroom sessions planned throughout the day.

The event begins at 9 a.m. at ENREEC headquarters, with guided tours of cover crop research plots starting at 9:30 a.m. Participants will return indoors for lunch, followed by an afternoon session focused on cover crop species identification and selection criteria. The program will conclude at 3 p.m.

Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) continuing education units will be available.

The training is open to farmers, extension educators, university researchers, graduate students, NRCS and NRD staff and other agricultural professionals interested in cover crop systems.

If storms are forecast for the planned date, the training will be held Thursday, April 30. Registrants will be notified of any postponement by email.

Agenda: 
    9-9:30 a.m. — Welcome and travel to field
    9:30-11 a.m. — Cover Crop Variety and Perennial Trials, Tauana Almeida, postdoctoral research associate, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, and Somdatta Achar, Ph.D. student, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture 
    11 a.m.-noon — Cover Crop Grazing Trial, Mary Drewnoski, professor, Department of Animal Science 
    12-1 p.m. — Lunch, catered by Parkers Smokehouse
    1-2:30 p.m. — Cover Crop Identification and Species Selection, Katja Koehler-Cole, statewide soil health extension educator 
    2:30-3 p.m. — Final remarks and evaluation

Participants are encouraged to register in advance. For questions, email Ethan Thies. ENREEC is located at 1071 Co. Rd. G, Ithaca, NE 68033.

There is no cost to attend, thanks to support from the Midwest Cover Crops Council, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Iowa State University, University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the Center for Regenerative Agriculture.




Nebraska Extension to Host Introductory Crop Scout Training May 19

Nebraska Extension will offer an introductory crop scout training Tuesday, May 19 for industry representatives and corn and soybean growers looking to strengthen their pest management and field scouting skills.

Designed for entry-level scouts working with crop consultants, agronomists and farm service centers, the training is also a good fit for growers who scout their own fields and students preparing for agribusiness roles.

The in-person course will be held from 9 a.m. to 4:40 p.m., with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m., at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center near Mead, Nebraska.

“We look forward to providing participants a hands-on, in-person experience focusing on important crop scouting skills,” said Nebraska Extension Educator Aaron Nygren.

Topics will include:
    Scouting tips and techniques 
    Hands-on field practice 
    Corn and soybean growth and development 
    Crop disease identification 
    Weed identification, including morphology and seedling keys 
    Corn and soybean insect scouting, identification and management 
    Nutrient deficiencies in corn and soybean 

Participants will gain practical, field-based experience to improve scouting accuracy and decision-making throughout the growing season. Past attendees have consistently rated the training highly, noting improvements in scouting confidence and field identification skills.

The cost is $115 and includes lunch, refreshments, workshop materials and a three-ring binder instruction manual with reference resources. A reduced registration fee of $75 is available for those who do not wish to receive the manual.

Pre-registration is required by Friday, May 15 to reserve a seat and ensure materials and meals are available https://web.cvent.com/event/609c90d6-7e08-443d-8c9d-4ef8935ea463/summary.

For more information, contact Aaron Nygren or Nebraska Extension at (402) 624-8030. 



Nebraska Farm Bureau Endorses Candidates for Election to the Nebraska Legislature

Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB), the state’s largest general agriculture organization, has announced a slate of endorsements for candidates seeking election to the Nebraska Legislature. Endorsements made by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC) are based on the candidates’ positions on agriculture and rural issues and recommendations from district evaluation committees made up of farmer and rancher members.

“We are pleased to announce our support for several candidates seeking election to serve in the Nebraska Legislature. Given the important role farmers and ranchers play in helping produce our food and the prominent role agriculture plays in supporting our state’s broader economy, it’s important we elect leaders who have an appreciation for and understanding of both,” said Katie Olson of Atkinson, chair of NEFB-PAC and first vice president of Nebraska Farm Bureau.

NEFB-PAC endorsed candidates seeking election to the Legislature in open rural races:
District 2 – Dean Helmick of Plattsmouth
District 16 – Ted Japp of Blair
District 22 – Dawson Brunswick of Columbus
District 30 – Cally Ideus of Filley
District 38 – Janell Anderson Ehrke of Orleans
District 41 – Joe Johnson of Kearney

“We look forward to supporting this slate of candidates in their election efforts. We have confidence that the candidates vying for office in open races possess comparable abilities to guide our state towards a prosperous future,” said Olson.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Endorses Brinker Harding for Election to Serve the Second Congressional District  

Brinker Harding has been endorsed by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC). Harding is seeking election to serve as Nebraska’s representative in the second congressional district.

Harding, a lifelong Omaha resident, has served on the Omaha City Council since 2017 and brings a strong background in public service and economic development. Prior to his election, he worked in city government as chief of staff and director of economic development, with a focus on budgeting, infrastructure, and supporting local growth.

“Brinker Harding has demonstrated a strong commitment to local leadership and economic growth,” said Katie Olson, chair of the NEFB-PAC and first vice president of Nebraska Farm Bureau. “His background in budgeting, infrastructure, and community development, combined with his experience in public service, positions him to be an effective voice for Nebraska and its rural communities in Washington, D.C. Because of that, we are pleased to support him in his bid to serve in Congress.”

Brinker earned the NEFB-PAC endorsement based on results of NEFB’s grassroots selection process, which involves gathering input from local County Farm Bureaus across the state.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Endorses Candidates for Election to the State Executive Branch

Nebraska Farm Bureau, the state’s largest general agriculture organization, is pleased to announce the endorsement of three candidates seeking to serve the state in various elected positions. Endorsements made by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC) are based on the candidates’ positions on agricultural and rural issues and recommendations from district evaluation committees made up of farmer and rancher members.

“These candidates have shown a remarkable understanding of the significance of agriculture to Nebraska,” said Katie Olson, who serves as the first vice president of Nebraska Farm Bureau and chair of NEFB-PAC. “They all display a comprehensive awareness of the challenges facing farmers and ranchers across the state, along with a commitment to enhancing agriculture to bolster the state's economy.”

NEFB-PAC endorsed candidates seeking election: 

State Attorney General
Mike Hilgers, the incumbent Nebraska Attorney General, consistently fights federal overreach, protects the constitution, and keeps our Nebraska communities safe. From the courtroom to the Capitol, as Attorney General, Hilgers will continue to fight tirelessly every day for Nebraskans.

State Treasurer
Joey Spellerberg, the appointed incumbent State Treasurer since November 2025, brings a strong record of fiscal responsibility, private-sector experience as a business owner, and proven leadership from his tenure as mayor of Fremont, where he advanced economic growth while reducing the city’s tax levy. He is committed to protecting taxpayer dollars through transparency and sound stewardship of state funds.

State Auditor of Public Accounts
Mike Foley, the incumbent Nebraska Auditor seeking re-election, brings a long record of government accountability, including multiple terms as State Auditor and service as Lieutenant Governor, where he focused on oversight of public spending and ensuring proper use of state and local funds. He has a proven track record of uncovering waste and misuse, reinforcing his commitment to transparency and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

“We look forward to providing support for all the candidates as they seek to represent the interests of Farm Bureau members throughout state,” said Olson.

These candidates earned the NEFB-PAC endorsement based on results of NEFB’s grassroots selection process, which involves gathering input from local County Farm Bureaus across the state.



Tours Announced for 2026 North American Manure Expo
Leslie Johnson - Animal Manure Management Extension Educator

Visitors to the 2026 North American Manure Expo being held at the Wayne County Fairgrounds in Wayne, Nebraska on July 28-30 will have the chance to explore some of the region’s most innovative and sustainability‑focused agricultural operations during the event’s official tour day on July 28, 2026. All tours will begin and end at the Wayne County Fairgrounds, offering participants a convenient launch point for a day of hands‑on learning.

Organizers have curated five tours, each highlighting different aspects of manure management and livestock production, as well as conservation and agricultural innovation in Nebraska. Participants will have the option of choosing one or two half-day long tours or one full-day tour. While the full day tour is the “family friendly” option, families are welcome on any of the tours.

Innovation in Livestock and Manure Equipment
This tour features a half-day exploration of two livestock operations and one manufacturing facility. Participants will visit Zobel Family Farms, a three-generation beef and pork operation recognized with the 2013 Environmental Stewardship Award for its commitment to responsible production practices. The tour then stops at Bar K, a beef feedlot that showcases a deep pit confinement system designed to protect the environment. The final stop is West Point Implement, a regional leader in manure application and feedlot management equipment, including the well-known SpreadAll Manure Spreader line.

Composting, Renewable Energy and Modern Cattle Care
This half‑day experience highlighting agricultural operations that transform waste into valuable resources. Stops include Bacon Hill Farm, home to an anaerobic digester that generated methane‑powered electricity beginning in 2005 and operated for 15 years as part of Olean Energy; Doernemann Composting, a permitted facility established in 1999 that provides composting services alongside a construction and demolition landfill; and Reigle Cattle Company, a family‑run cattle operation that recently expanded with the addition of new roller‑compacted concrete pens.

Poultry Production and Manufacturing 
Experience a look at the poultry industry from barn to processing and equipment manufacturing. Participants will take a drive‑by tour of a broiler farm, where the on‑board guide will highlight key features of the active broiler facility. The tour then stops at the Lincoln Premium Poultry Processing Plant, a state‑of‑the‑art Fremont facility built to supply Costco’s rotisserie chickens and capable of processing more than 10 million pounds of chicken each week while employing roughly 1,200 workers. The final stop is Mighty Giant, a factory that produces tub grinders and litter‑loading equipment essential for poultry manure handling.

Research, Technology and Regenerative Farming 
The tour includes the Haskell Agricultural Laboratory, a University of Nebraska site featuring long-term organic versus inorganic fertilizer trials, nitrogen-sensing technology, and insights into nearby egg producer Michael Foods. 

It also stops at the Kvols Beef Feedlot, a multi-generation livestock operation that expanded with the addition of a deep-pit beef barn and shares real-world experiences with the system. 

The final stop is the Junior Pfanstiel Farm, a 270-acre regenerative organic operation focused on reducing chemical inputs and improving soil fertility through the use of cover crops.

Family‑Focused 
This tour is a full-day experience designed for visitors of all ages and features a blend of agriculture, wildlife and Nebraska history. The tour begins at Pfanny’s Farm, a family-owned agritourism destination dedicated to land stewardship and known for combining traditional and modern crop and livestock management practices that support long-term soil and natural resource health. 

Participants also visit 4 Aces Dairy, a 180-head robotic dairy where automation significantly reduces labor needs and guests can observe milking technology in action through a 24/7 viewing room. 

The tour continues with a stop at Grove Lake Wildlife Management Area, home to a 50-acre fishing lake and more than 2,000 acres of prime habitat for deer, turkey, pheasant and quail, where visitors will enjoy a boxed lunch. 

The day concludes at the Ashfall Fossil Beds, a rare type of fossil site called lagerstätten that provides an exceptional ecological “snapshot” of ancient organisms.

A Day Designed for Learning and Inspiration
With options suited to professionals, families and anyone curious about modern agriculture, the 2026 North American Manure Expo tours offer a unique window into the future of manure management, conservation and food production. Learn more about the manure expo and watch for registration on the event site https://manureexpo.com/.



Nebraska Ag Leaders Send Letter of Support for USMCA

Members of the Nebraska Ag Leaders, the largest agricultural organizations in the state, sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamison Greer offering continued support for the U.S., Mexico, Canada Agreement (USMCA), the renegotiated free trade agreement which replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). 

"The USMCA agreement reinforces and enhances the logical trade relationship between Nebraska and its North American neighbors and provides critical stability and certainty to this important aspect of the state's economy," the combined organizations said.

"USMCA additionally preserves zero-tariff treatment that is crucial to allow U.S. agricultural exports to be globally competitive. With Nebraska’s central location and access to three Class I railroads, transportation is efficient to several crossings into Mexico and Canada,” the organizations said in a combined statement.

A mandatory review of the agreement is scheduled for July 1,2026. 



U.S. Soy Welcomes $14 Million in New USDA Trade Development Funding to Drive Global Export Demand

The American Soybean Association (ASA), U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), and World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) last week announced the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS) allocation of $14 million in funding through the new America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP).  

The funds will be invested to support the joint initiative of USSEC and ASA/WISHH to grow global demand for U.S. Soy by equipping international buyers with the tools, data, and technical support they need to prefer, procure, and promote soy of U.S. origin in their markets.  

“This AFTPP funding is a welcome and especially timely opportunity coming just as new trade agreements are opening doors, and diversifying demand for U.S. Soy in international markets,” said Mike McCranie, USSEC Board Chair and South Dakota farmer. “USSEC is eager to turn that momentum and this new investment into export sales and measurable returns for U.S. soybean farmers.”  

“For soybean farmers, demand is everything,” said Scott Metzger, ASA President and Ohio farmer. “This funding helps strengthen long-term market access and ensures U.S. Soy remains competitive in a global marketplace, keeping American farmers at the forefront of growing global demand.”

“The AFTPP funding supports WISHH and U.S. Soy to capitalize on years of market development efforts in developing and emerging markets,” said Morey Hill, WISHH Chair and Iowa farmer. “This funding will allow WISHH to launch new and innovative programs with partners who are eager to try U.S. Soy.”

Planned activities include building industry expertise with local processors, feed mills, and food companies, supporting local processing and enterprise development in protein-deficient regions, promoting soy-based food use opportunities, and advancing sustainability initiatives that showcase U.S. Soy’s verified environmental credentials and role in climate-smart supply chains.

First announced in 2025, the AFTPP is designed to help U.S. agriculture leverage new overseas market opportunities, maintain critical trading relationships, and diversify export destinations for U.S. farm products, complementing other USDA export promotion tools such as the Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) program.



USDA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Break Ground on New Texas Sterile Fly Production Facility

Friday, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and Lieutenant General William H. “Butch” Graham, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) commanding general, led the groundbreaking for the new sterile fly production facility at Moore Air Base in Edinburg, Texas. USDA is partnering with USACE to construct this facility, which is a cornerstone of Secretary Rollins’ five-pronged strategy (PDF, 1005 KB) to combat New World Screwworm (NWS), expanding the nation’s domestic capacity to protect livestock, wildlife, and public health from this serious pest.

“Breaking ground on this facility marks a major investment in safeguarding America’s livestock and the producers who feed this nation. This puts NWS sterile fly production in American hands, so we do not have to rely on other countries for the best offensive measure to push screwworm away from our borders,” said Secretary Rollins. “The New World Screwworm threatens the health of our herds, the stability of rural economies, and the resilience of our supply chain. President Trump and his entire cabinet is committed to leveraging every resource necessary to contain this pest, protect American agriculture, and ensure the long-term security of our food supply chain.”

USACE is providing engineering, design, construction management, and contract oversight for the project, ensuring the facility meets the highest standards for biosecurity, reliability, and long‑term operational readiness.

The new facility is being built with an aggressive timeline designed to quickly expand the nation’s sterile fly production capacity:
    Initial operational capability targeted for November 2027, reaching production of 100 million sterile flies per week.
    Construction continues immediately beyond initial operations to scale full production capacity to 300 million sterile flies per week.
    USDA and USACE have slashed red tape, securing expedited procurement, and eliminating other barriers.
    Together, USDA and USACE will oversee installation, and commissioning of specialized systems that will make this facility operable on time, delivering the critical sterile flies we need to continue to defeat this pest.

This aggressive schedule reflects USDA’s commitment to protecting America’s producers. A sterile fly production facility plays a crucial role in NWS prevention and response. In a biosecure environment, NWS flies are raised and sterilized using irradiation before being released in targeted areas. Because female screwworm flies mate only once, mating with sterile males results in eggs that do not hatch. Sterile insect technique, paired with surveillance, animal movement restrictions, and education and outreach, has been the foundation of successful screwworm eradication efforts for decades; USDA has defeated this pest before and using these proven methods, USDA will do so again.

This new state-of-the-art facility will complement USDA’s ongoing production of 100 million sterile flies per week at the Panama-based COPEG facility. USDA has also invested $21 million to support modernization of Mexico’s Metapa, MX facility, expected to be operational in summer 2026.

Once fully operational, this expanded production network will provide the speed, scale, and domestic capability needed to rapidly counter any NWS threat—reducing risks to producers, protecting animal health, and strengthening the resilience of America’s livestock industry.

For more information about New World Screwworm and USDA’s prevention efforts, visit Screwworm.gov.