Monday January 26 Ag News - Crops, Manure, Irrigation Management Workshops Upcoming - CVA to Offer GigCare - NeFB Henderson to Retire, Hires Delamater, Smallhouse - CAP Crop Ins webinar - and more!

Second Annual Northeast Nebraska Crops Update

Farmers, crop consultants, agribusiness professionals, and others interested in row crop production are invited to attend the Northeast Nebraska Crops Update, a free, one-day educational program focused on current crop issues and management decisions along with industry representatives.

The Northeast Nebraska Crops Update will be February 4, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with registration starting at 8:30 a.m. Lunch and refreshments will be provided at no cost to participants. Pre-registration is requested at go.unl.edu/26register-crops-update for meal planning purposes or by contacting Agnes at 402-584-2261.

This update will feature Extension specialists covering a wide range of timely topics relevant to the growing season, including:
    Corn and soybean diseases
    Soybean defoliation and insect management
    Entomology updates affecting Northeast Nebraska crops
    In-season nitrogen reduction and nutrient management strategies
    Grain storage management and post-harvest considerations
    Agricultural policy and economic implications, including discussion of the “One Big Beautiful Bill”

Certified Crop Adviser CEU’s are pending for program participants.

The Northeast Nebraska Crops Update is designed to provide practical, research-based information that producers can apply immediately to improve decision-making, profitability, and risk management.

Date: February 4, 2026
Location: Haskell Ag Lab, 57905 866 Road, Concord, NE
 
For more information, go to the website go.unl.edu/26crop_update.



Workshops Aim to Boost Crop Yields by Improving Manure Management

Manure isn’t just a byproduct of livestock — it’s a powerful fertilizer that can improve soil health, increase crop yields and save farmers money. This February and March, Nebraska Extension is hosting seven hands-on workshops across the state to help producers get the most value out of manure while protecting water and soil resources.

“Our workshops focus on choosing the best possible field for manure application and therefore are useful for any crop farmer utilizing manure, even though they have traditionally been attended by livestock producers,” said Leslie Johnson, Nebraska Extension’s Animal Manure Management Extension Educator. “The workshops will still meet the educational requirements for permitted livestock operations laid out by the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment’s Title 130.”

The day-long sessions, held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. local time, provide DWEE Land Application Training certification. Participants must attend the full program, which includes lunch, to earn certification. Sessions will cover regulatory updates and strategies for using manure effectively on cropland. While certification is available, anyone may attend, including crop farmers and smaller livestock operators seeking practical guidance for their operations.

Hands-on activities will help participants evaluate which fields are best suited for manure application. Each session will present a scenario in which attendees assess potential fields and determine whether manure use would be beneficial or if certain limitations make the site less desirable. Participants will then rank fields by priority based on factors such as nutrient value, transportation cost, soil health, water quality, neighbor proximity, and odor concerns. Regulations and record-keeping requirements for manure storage and application will also be covered.

Workshop Dates and Locations:
    Gothenburg — Monday, Feb. 9
    Ainsworth — Tuesday, Feb. 24
    Broken Bow — Wednesday, Feb. 25
    Bridgeport — Friday, Feb. 27
    Norfolk — Wednesday, March 4
    West Point — Thursday, March 5
    Aurora — Tuesday, March 17

Because seating is limited and meals are provided, advance registration is required at least one week before each event. Additional sessions may be added if demand is high. Registration is available online.

The cost is $100 per operation requiring certification — typically larger livestock facilities — or $25 per person for attendees not seeking certification, including smaller livestock producers, crop farmers, NRCS staff, and landlords.

The workshops are sponsored by Nebraska Extension’s Animal Manure Management Team, which works to help livestock and crop producers maximize the agronomic and environmental benefits of manure. For more information, visit the Animal Manure Management site https://manure.unl.edu/ or contact Leslie Johnson, 402-584-3818. 



Register for 2026 Nebraska Master Irrigator discussions
Crystal Powers - Water and Cropping Systems Extension Educator

Join us for this opportunity to dig deeper and 'talk shop' about the issues on the top of your mind. We invite farmers to join us with business and conservation partners to discuss how we grow more with less. Getting the most out of existing farm investments, improving margins, and strengthening our farms today and the future of Nebraska's soil & water.

Day 1 Theme: Irrigation Challenge
  Getting the most out of your equipment  
  Saving water & pumping costs
  Support tools & new technology    
  Discussions with TAPS & On-farm research participants
  Connect with incentive opportunities

Day 2 Theme: Nitrogen Challenge
  Soil health & regenerative agriculture  
  In-season nitrogen challenge
  Reducing fertilizer losses
  Discussions with TAPS & On-farm research participants
  Connect with incentive opportunities
 
Join the discussion 9am-2pm:
Grand Island: February 25 & March 2
Beatrice: February 27 & March 18
Norfolk: March 6 & 11
North Platte:  Dec 5 & March 13

Industry partners & panelists: 
Arable, Bish, CropX, Delta Plastics, Goanna Ag, Komet, Lindsey, Nelson, Prairie Fire Ag Solutions, Reinke, Senninger, Sentinel, Valley, T-L, BioAg Solutions, Yield Plus Agronomics.

Thank you to our ag business partners for supporting lunch.
Qualifies for select NRD Nitrogen Certification Training. 
CCA Continuing Education Credits applied for.

This event is sponsored by University of Nebraska Extension, USDA-NRCS, Nebraska Water Center, and the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska. Any questions or accommodation requests, please reach out to Crystal Powers https://epd.unl.edu/profile/cpowers2.



CVA provides Health Benefits Option for Member-Owners

Central Valley Ag (CVA) understands the families in our communities are facing challenges while finding affordable health insurance. To support our farmers, CVA is excited to introduce a new health benefit available to CVA member-owners: GigCare offered by Population Science Management (PSM). GigCare is PSM’s health benefits solution for Working Owners. When you join PSM and become a Working Owner you could qualify for affordable employer-sponsored group health plans.

“We know health insurance is one of the biggest hurdles many of our members face,” said Nic McCarthy, president and CEO of Central Valley Ag. “By offering access to this program, we’re giving our member-owners another path that provides more flexibility and may be a better fit for some families.”

GigCare provides access to the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska network and offers flexibility with enrollment available year-round, making it easier for members to join at a time that works for them. While it may be a good option for some, it will not be the right solution for everyone, and CVA encourages members to explore all available choices.

“As a board, we want to continue looking for ways to help our members succeed both in their operations and in their day-to-day lives,” said Luke Carlson, Chairman of the CVA Board of Directors. “Health insurance can be complex, so providing another option is one more way we can support our members and give them choices.”

More information, including eligibility guidelines and program details, is available at www.cvacoop.com/gigcare. Members will be able to review plan options, explore comparisons to exchange plans, and begin the enrollment process.



NeFB: New Hires and One Big Farewell

Nebraska Farm Bureau announced that longtime staff member Tina Henderson plans to retire in the spring of 2026. Henderson joined Nebraska Farm Bureau in 1994 and has been a central figure in the organization for more than three decades. Throughout her tenure, she has played a key role in membership and communications, contributing significantly to Farm Bureau’s growth and its support of Nebraska’s agricultural community.

“Tina has made tremendous contributions to the organization and to Nebraska agriculture,” said Mark McHargue, NEFB president. “For more than 30 years, Tina has helped shape who we are as an organization. Her commitment to members and to Nebraska agriculture has set a standard that will guide us moving forward.”

The organization has begun transition planning and will share additional details, including Henderson’s official last day and next steps, as they are finalized.

“Her dedication, passion for the mission and commitment to serving members have elevated Nebraska Farm Bureau for decades. Her ability to connect with people and navigate challenges has strengthened Farm Bureau in meaningful ways,” said Craig Head, NEFB’s chief advocacy officer.

Nebraska Farm Bureau is encouraging members and colleagues to congratulate Henderson on her career and thank her for her years of service to the state’s farm and ranch families. You can contact her at tinah@nefb.org or (402) 310-0497.

The Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) is pleased to welcome Natalie Delamater as the new director of marketing and communications and Hannah Smallhouse as the director of grassroots engagement. Delamater succeeds Abby Durheim, who served as a marketing coordinator, while Smallhouse follows Jessica Shelburn, who previously served in that grassroot engagement role.

Delamater, who grew up near Orlando, Florida, has called Lincoln home for the past seven years. She brings 10 years of professional experience, an impressive range of skills, and fresh ideas that will help us continue to grow the Nebraska Farm Bureau and Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation brands. Most recently, she served as marketing director for KLKN Channel 8, Lincoln’s ABC affiliate, where she led efforts to promote the station, its news coverage and community events through on-air, digital and print campaigns.

“We are excited to welcome Natalie Delamater to the NEFB marketing and communications team,” said Tina Henderson, senior director of marketing and communications. “Natalie brings a wealth of experience, fresh ideas and a genuine passion for connecting with people. We know her creativity and dedication will help us share the stories, values and missions of the Nebraska Farm Bureau and Foundation in ways that truly resonate with our members and the community.”

Delamater officially began her work with NEFB on Nov. 3.

Hannah Smallhouse of Lincoln will focus on strengthening our grassroots member engagement in the public policy and political arenas. Smallhouse is no stranger to agriculture or Farm Bureau. She grew up on a sixth-generation ranch in southeastern Arizona in a Farm Bureau family where her mother served as president of the Arizona Farm Bureau from 2018 to 2024.

Smallhouse attends the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she is slated to graduate in May 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in business administration and a Bachelor of Arts, having majored in international business, global studies and Spanish and minored in Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship.

She worked full-time while attending college and comes to us from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development where she served as an economic development consultant supporting Nebraska’s strategic plan for international engagement by leading events and business recruitment initiatives.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Hannah Smallhouse to the Nebraska Farm Bureau team,” said Craig Head, NEFB chief advocacy officer. “Hannah brings not only strong professional and academic experience, but also a lifelong connection to agriculture and Farm Bureau through her family. Her energy, passion and commitment to supporting our members will make a real impact as we work together to strengthen grassroots engagement and advance our public policy efforts.”

Smallhouse joined NEFB on Nov. 18.



Nebraska Corn Growers Association Statement on E15 Exclusion from Funding Bill Language

The U.S. House of Representatives approved a final appropriations bill that omits language allowing consumers nationwide to access E15, fuels blended with 15% corn ethanol.

In response, the Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) President and farmer from Cairo, Nebraska, Michael Dibbern, released the following statement:
“Nebraska and U.S. corn farmers answered the urgent call this week by dropping everything on their farms, with no advance notice, to travel to Washington, D.C. in a powerful display of determination and passion in response to the House of Representatives removing the verbiage for E15 from the newest funding bill. Their willingness to leave operations underscores just how vital this policy is to our livelihoods and rural economies.

Along with the National Corn Growers Association, we are deeply discouraged, profoundly frustrated and frankly infuriated by this latest setback. After years of relentless advocacy and near-misses at the finish line, including recent agreements that appeared to pave the way forward, E15 language was stripped from the funding package in mere hours.

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association continues to be appreciative of Nebraska’s members of Congress who continue to be steadfast advocates, fighting for Nebraska’s corn farmers and nationwide year-round E15. While NeCGA will continue efforts fighting for nationwide year-round E15, our delegates adopted a resolution during our Annual Meeting and which reinforced the need to broaden our efforts across several applications as it relates to ethanol use.

We implore Congress: the time for delay is over. Immediate passage of nationwide year-round E15 is essential now, farmers cannot afford further postponement. Failure to act can and will inflict real economic harm on rural America, corn farmers and the broader U.S. economy through lost demand, depressed prices and missed opportunities for energy independence. If this does not move forward promptly, the message farmers will hear will be unmistakable: Congress is turning its back on the corn industry and rural America while contradicting its own commitments to America-First energy dominance.”



Midwest Dairy Announces Call for Nebraska Scholarship Applications

Midwest Dairy has announced they are now seeking students to apply for the Nebraska College Scholarship for the 2026-2027 academic school year. Students are invited to apply for the scholarship until March 1 through an online process.
 
Online scholarship applications are due March 1, 2026. Applicants will be evaluated on contribution to and involvement in the dairy industry, leadership, career plans, and academic standing. For online application and more information, go to: https://www.midwestdairy.com/nebraska-scholarships  
 
There are two levels of scholarships available.
    Full-time undergraduate and graduate students with minimum second-year enrollment at an accredited college. Preference will be given to those pursuing a career within and/or supporting the dairy industry. Scholarship levels include one (1) $1,500 and two (2) $1,000 awards. When answering the essay question on future career plans, applications are to describe how their education will be used to support the dairy industry.
    Full-time undergraduate (including high school seniors) and graduate students at an accredited college. Scholarship level includes three (3) $500 awards.
 
To be eligible for this scholarship opportunity applicant must also contribute to Midwest Dairy checkoff as of January 1 of the current calendar year by one of the following:
    Applicant, or applicant’s parents/guardians/grandparents/sibling, must own a dairy farm located in the state of Nebraska.
    Applicant must be employed on a dairy farm located in the state of Nebraska and be recommended by the producer employer.
    Former recipients of the scholarship may re-apply in subsequent years, providing they remain eligible.
 
“The Midwest Dairy Nebraska Scholarship is about recognizing students who are committed to building up the dairy industry and carrying it forward into the future,” said Tracy J. Behnken, Manager of Farmer Relations in Nebraska. “We are proud to continue our commitment to these remarkable students and the hardworking dairy farm families Midwest Dairy represents.” 
 
Dairy students are also invited to apply for scholarships from Dairy Management Inc., which offers checkoff-funded scholarships at the national level. For more information about the dairy scholarships, please visit https://www.midwestdairy.com/young-dairy-leaders/dairy-scholarships/.



County-Level Crop Insurance in Nebraska: SCO and ECO Decisions for 2026
Jan 29, 2026 12:00 PM 
Cory Walters, Associate Professor, Agricultural Economics, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

This webinar will explain how county-based options (i.e. Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) or Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO)) add real value, how they interact with Revenue Protection (RP) and when they do not provide protection. Producers will leave with a deeper understanding of how SCO/ECO function and guidance on whether SCO or ECO fit their operation.

Register here: https://cap.unl.edu/webinars.

Miss the live webinar or want to review it again? Recordings are available — typically within 24 hours of the live webinar — in the archive section of the Center for Agricultural Profitability's webinar page, https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



The North American Manure Expo is Coming to Nebraska in July

Nebraska Extension and partners will host the national event July 28–30, 2026, at the Wayne County Fairgrounds in Wayne, Nebraska. The North American Manure Expo brings together producers, ag professionals, educators and industry leaders from across North America to focus on professionalism in nutrient management, with an emphasis on manure application, technology, research and practical management strategies.

The event will feature live demonstrations, educational sessions and extensive networking opportunities centered on agronomic, environmental and economic considerations of manure management. Hosting the Manure Expo in Nebraska highlights the state’s leadership in nutrient management education and applied research and offers a unique opportunity for local producers and professionals to engage with national experts and innovations.

Exhibitor, sponsorship and demonstration opportunities are available. For more information, contact Sharon Kauk, 519-410-4854. Additional event details will be announced as planning continues.



Dairy poised to help meet consumers growing demand for protein

Consumer demand for foods and beverages with high protein levels continues to surge as a growing percentage of Americans focus on increasing their dietary protein. The sharp rise in demand is shifting buying habits and could ultimately transform the retail grocery space. Food and beverage manufacturers representing a host of product categories are moving quickly to respond with new product offerings and position themselves for success with protein-hungry consumers.

According to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, this strong consumer demand for protein bodes well for the U.S. dairy industry, given the high protein levels and nutritional qualities in traditional dairy products like milk, cheese, yogurt and cottage cheese. But for dairy processors, the opportunity extends well beyond staple products in the retail dairy case. Dairy-based ingredients are increasingly being used to boost protein content in a wide variety of products including baked goods, protein bars, ready-to-drink protein shakes and whey powders.

“The dairy industry is in a great position to help consumers meet their protein intake goals,” said Corey Geiger, lead dairy economist with CoBank. “Dairy products have a unique advantage because they contain all nine essential amino acids required in a human diet, making it a complete protein source. We expect more food and beverage manufacturers will take a cue from formulators that have already incorporated dairy-based ingredients into protein-centric product areas outside of the retail dairy case.”

Consumers of virtually all ages associate protein with an expanding array of health benefits, and the momentum behind protein has been building in recent years. In 2022, 59% of American consumers reported trying to consume more protein in their diet, according to the International Food Information Council. By 2023, the percentage had grown to 67% and in 2025, seven in 10 American consumers wanted their diets to include more protein content.

“Protein is top of mind for consumers in making a better-for-you purchase,” said Billy Roberts, senior food and beverage analyst with CoBank. “And dairy products’ inherent benefits position them well to resonate with consumers, particularly those adjusting their diets for weight loss or to abide by the recently announced Dietary Guidelines.”

Opportunities abound as tailwinds fuel momentum
The new U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans announced on Jan. 7 increases the recommended daily allowance of dietary protein for adults from 0.8 grams to 1.2 to 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight.

Increased usage of GLP-1 medications for weight loss is also sparking more widespread consumer interest in dietary protein. According to KFF, at least 12% of adults indicated they were taking GLP-1 medications in November 2025. That percentage is expected to climb even higher as less expensive pill forms of the weight-loss medication are set to debut this year.

A study by Cornell University found that GLP-1 users are increasing their spending in a handful of categories, including yogurt, fresh fruits and vegetables, meat snacks and protein bars. Echoing those findings, Danone, maker of Oikos Greek yogurt, has reported double-digit growth in its high-protein offerings, a trend it says has accelerated with the adoption of GLP-1 medications.

Beyond meeting consumer demand, food and beverage makers have an added incentive for offering more high protein products – price. According to estimates from Circana and other market research firms, food and beverage products with a high-protein label claim can command a price premium of as much as 12%.

Snacks, nutritional drinks among key growth opportunities for dairy
While the snacking category has been growing for decades, protein claims remain somewhat of an afterthought. Only 17% of consumers indicate they prioritize protein when selecting a snack, according to IFIC. That creates an opportunity for snack makers to leverage protein as a product attribute and protein-rich dairy products could play a role in shifting consumers’ criteria for snacks. Building on that opportunity, the role of a healthier, more satiating snack with high protein content could solve multiple consumer demands, including health and convenience.

Ready-to-drink protein shakes also represent a key growth opportunity for the dairy industry. While traditional fluid milk sales have been sluggish, data from Circana indicates sales in the protein shake category climbed 71% over the last four years. That represents a jump from $4.7 billion to $8.1 billion in dollar sales, with continued growth expected in the category.

“The amino acids in dairy products will create even more opportunities for dairy as stand-alone products and ingredients as food manufacturers look to boost protein content, reduce sugar levels and create more streamlined, clean-labeled products,” said Geiger. “Ultimately, this transformation in the retail space represents a significant, long-term opportunity for dairy processors and food manufacturers alike.”