Tuesday February 24 Ag News - National FFA Week Feb 21-28 - NE Sorghum Symposium Mar 12 - ISU Forage Species Guide Released - Dairy Margin Coverage Sign-up Ends Feb 26 - and more!

 Smith, Flood, FFA Caucus Celebrate National FFA Week  

U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (NE-03) and Mike Flood (NE-01) joined their colleagues on the Congressional FFA Caucus in introducing a resolution to designate February 21-28 as National FFA Week. The resolution was led by the Congressional FFA Caucus Co-Chairs U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. 

“Since 1928, Nebraska FFA has helped shape our state’s next generation of agricultural leaders, equipping young people with the skills, experience, and passion needed to feed and fuel our world. I am proud to cosponsor this year’s National FFA Week resolution and join members across the country in celebrating the extraordinary work of the National FFA Organization. With dedicated young leaders like these stepping forward, I have no doubt the future of American agriculture is bright,” said Smith.  

“FFA is raising up the next generation of ag and community leaders here in Nebraska and all across the country. Their work is making a huge difference. This week, Congress salutes the FFA chapters in every corner of America that are teaching young leaders the skills they need to be civically engaged and to take the great paying jobs available in our ag economy,” said Flood. 
 
“Happy National FFA Week! Nebraska FFA is building the talent pipeline that keeps our state strong. By combining classroom learning with real-world application in agriculture, agribusiness, and advancing technologies, FFA equips students with the career readiness skills employers need and communities depend on. I commend the over 12,900 dedicated Nebraska members, advisors, and educators who invest their time and talent to ensure a bright future for our state,” said Nebraska State FFA Advisor Sarah Heideman. 

“National FFA Week is a time when we showcase the collective impact of FFA nationwide. Throughout FFA, we see our members stepping up as leaders, innovators, and advocates for agriculture. We know this happens, thanks to the dedication of agricultural teachers, FFA Alumni & Supporters, and our many partners. This week, National FFA Week, is when we celebrate the collective agricultural education ecosystem,” said National FFA Advisor Dr. Travis Park. 
 
The National FFA Organization is a congressionally chartered school-based national youth leadership organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,400 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Congressional FFA Caucus works to raise the profile of school-based agricultural education and FFA while developing relationships between Congress and the next generation of leaders in food and agriculture.  



Expand your opportunities at the 2026 NE Sorghum Symposium

As producers continue navigating tight margins and rising input costs, the 2026 Nebraska Sorghum Symposium will provide sorghum growers and those considering adding it to their rotations with information they can use to make decisions on their farms this season. The event will take place on Thursday, March 12, at the Raising Nebraska Building in Grand Island.

This year’s program will cover sorghum agronomy and production strategies, innovation in food products made with sorghum, livestock feeding systems, market development, export opportunities and more.

Registration is now open for both the symposium and the Nebraska Sorghum Annual Banquet: https://2026NESorghumSymposium.eventbrite.com.

Confirmed speakers include:
    Brent Bean, Ph.D., director of agronomy, United Sorghum Checkoff Program
    Sara Sexton-Bowser, Ph.D., managing director, Center for Sorghum Improvement
    James Schnable, Ph.D., professor, Department of Agronomy & Horticulture, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
    Clint White, communications director, United Sorghum Checkoff Program
    Nazim Khan, executive chef, Bryan Health
    Jeffrey Jackson, alfalfa and forage specialist, CROPLAN
    Mary Drewnoski, beef systems extension specialist, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
    Amy France, chair, National Sorghum Producers
    Ben Smith, field operations manager, corn belt region, Farm Rescue
    Samantha Redfern, manager of global programs, U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council
    Jacki Fee, president, Renewable Fuels Nebraska
    Nicolas Cafaro La Menza, Ph.D., assistant professor, Department of Agronomy & Horticulture, University of Nebraska–Lincoln

“Sorghum continues to be a versatile and resilient crop for Nebraska growers,” said Kristine Dvoracek-Jameson, executive director of Nebraska Sorghum. “This symposium is a chance for farmers to connect with experts, learn from one another and explore the innovations and opportunities that can strengthen their operations and communities.”

Hosted by the Nebraska Grain Sorghum Board and Nebraska Sorghum Producers, the event will bring together growers, researchers and industry partners to discuss the latest developments shaping sorghum production, utilization, and market opportunities.

Symposium will conclude with a reception, followed by the Nebraska Sorghum Annual Banquet, where leaders and partners will be recognized for their contributions to the industry, including service to industry and service to sorghum honorees, scholarship recipients, and more.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow. Register today to secure your spot for the symposium and banquet: https://2026NESorghumSymposium.eventbrite.com.




Nebraska Workshop Highlights Agri-Tourism Opportunities for Farms and Ranches

Looking for new ways to diversify farm income while preserving your operation’s legacy? Nebraska producers are invited to explore practical agri-tourism strategies during a hands-on workshop focused on turning working lands into new revenue opportunities.

Hosted by Nebraska Extension and Nebraska Women in Agriculture in partnership with the Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary, the workshop will be held Thursday, March 12, from 2–9 p.m. at Rowe Sanctuary near Gibbon, Nebraska.

The program will highlight how Nebraska’s working lands can create additional revenue streams through agri-tourism while preserving agricultural heritage and natural resources. Participants will hear from local experts about business planning, marketing, liability considerations and practical steps for developing successful agri-tourism ventures.

The workshop will also feature a conservation-focused tour and guided crane viewing experience along the Platte River at sunset, offering firsthand insight into how conservation and tourism can work hand-in-hand.

Workshop Agenda:
    2 p.m. — Registration and networking
    2:30 p.m. —  Business plans, structure and considerations, Robyn Hubbert of Prairie Wind Birding Tours 
    3:45 p.m. — Break
    4 p.m. — Tour of conservation area
    5:15 p.m. — Dinner
    6 p.m. — Crane Tour (introduction video, Q&A and head to blind)
    9 p.m. — Conclusion

Rowe Sanctuary is located at 44450 Elm Island Rd, Gibbon, NE 68840.  Registrations are due by March 5th.  Register here: https://web.cvent.com/event/56ee28fc-b214-4131-9747-0e8121da2ed5/summary.  



Rural advocates honored by Center for Rural Affairs

The Center for Rural Affairs has announced recognition of outstanding people and businesses building strong and vibrant rural communities.

“Each year, we honor the rural champions who help us accomplish so much for rural America,” said Brian Depew, executive director. “This group of award winners has gone above and beyond to lay the foundation for a better rural future.”

Awards include:

Seventh Generation Award: Al Davis of Lincoln, Nebraska
A lifelong Sandhills rancher and former state senator, Davis has engaged in multiple areas of the Center’s work over decades, in addition to serving his community and the state. The Hyannis native served in the Legislature from 2013-17 and is a founding member of the Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska.

The Seventh Generation Award is a lifetime service award presented to an individual or individuals who have made major contributions to improving rural life and protecting our land and water.

Citizenship Award: Mitch Schlegelmilch, of Exeter, Nebraska
Schlegelmilch is board president of Greg’s Market, a community grocery store owned by the Exeter Investment Group. He testified in the Nebraska Legislature in support of a grocery store bill in spring 2024 and has worked with the Center to advance grocery legislation while advocating for his community and grocery store. Schlegelmilch has also participated in events hosted by the Center to spread the word about Exeter’s unique store operating model.

The Citizenship Award is given to an individual or individuals who actively participate in the civic process of creating public policy, and who work closely with the Center to advance public policies that strengthen family farms, ranches, and rural communities.

Rural Community Champion Award: Sandro Lopes of David City, Nebraska
As owner and operator of Huerto Regenerativo NaTerra, Lopes is a native Brazilian hailing from the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. He is a leader in his community and in the regenerative farming movement in Nebraska. Lopes farms using Indigenous techniques that he loves sharing with others including youth. He supports other beginning farmers in gaining land access and has partnered with the Center.

The Rural Community Champion Award is bestowed to a person or persons who work with the Center and make extraordinary contributions to building community engagement within their own communities. People who receive this award provide a model for innovation, stewardship, or community development.

Entrepreneur Award: Tony and Amber Ellsworth of Waterloo, Nebraska
The owners of Ellsworth Crossing, a farm-to-fork market, offer a variety of local foods while emphasizing customer service. They pride themselves on providing natural, locally-sourced food and involve their children in the business.

The Entrepreneur Award recognizes entrepreneurs who have received Center services and achieved remarkable success in business while demonstrating the values of innovation, community leadership, and social responsibility.

Partner Award: Ben Jewell of Lincoln, Nebraska 
Jewell has dedicated more than 12 years to strengthening local and regional food systems. The associate extension educator with Rural Prosperity Nebraska at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has made significant contributions to Nebraska’s food security and agricultural communities. As a key member of the Nebraska Regional Food Systems Initiative, Jewell helped to secure the largest-ever USDA farm-to-school grant for Nebraska. He brought together food partners from across the state, including the Center, to create the Nebraska Rural Farmers Market Handbook. He organizes farm and food business workshops and was involved in the Heartland Regional Food Business Center.

The Partner Award is presented to an individual or organization that best exemplifies partnership to the Center. This person or organization has demonstrated outstanding support to the Center and exceptional dedication to either community or economic development.

Awards will be presented to each recipient this spring.

The Center for Rural Affairs works to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities through action-oriented programs addressing social, economic, and environmental issues.



Nebraska Receives Three National Conservation Awards at NACD Meeting

Nebraska conservation leaders were recognized on the national stage during the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) annual meeting hosted Feb. 15-19, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas.

During the meeting, Dr. Orval Gigstad of Syracuse, Andy Bishop of Grand Island, and Jeff and Jolene Steffen of Crofton were honored for their outstanding commitment to natural resources conservation and stewardship. The awards recognize leadership, partnerships, and agriculture producers.

Hall of Distinction
Dr. Orval Gigstad, Nemaha Natural Resources District
For more than 30 years, Dr. Orval Gigstad has been a steadfast champion for natural resources stewardship at the local, state, regional, and national levels. He has served on the Nemaha Natural Resources District (NRD) board since 1993 and on the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) board since 1996, including two terms as president.

At the national level, Gigstad has devoted countless hours to NACD committee service and policy development, helping guide conservation efforts nationwide. He previously served as chair of NACD’s Northern Plains Region and currently serves as vice-chair, providing leadership continuity and mentorship. Gigstad is the first Nebraskan to be inducted into the NACD Hall of Distinction.

“Orval’s national involvement has enriched conservation programs back home in Nebraska,” said Dean Edson, Nebraska Association of Resources Districts executive director. “His steady leadership and collaborative approach continue to earn the trust and respect of conservation stakeholders across the state.”

The Hall of Distinction honors current and past NACD leaders who have made significant contributions to the nation’s conservation movement.

Friend of Conservation Award
Andy Bishop, Grand Island - Rainwater Basin Joint Venture
As coordinator for the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture (RWBJV), Andy Bishop has demonstrated exceptional leadership in strengthening partnerships among agricultural producers, conservation agencies, and private landowners. RWBJV works to protect critical wetland and bird habitat while supporting productive working lands through voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs.

Through industry symposiums, outreach, and partnership building, Bishop has helped address barriers to conservation adoption and strengthened the role of Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts.

“Andy Bishop embodies the spirit of this partnership award,” Edson said. “He is a trusted partner to Nebraska’s NRDs and helps bridge the gap between agriculture and stewardship, helping protect our natural resources for future generations.”

The Friend of Conservation Award recognizes an individual, business, organization, or agency outside the association for outstanding contributions to the conservation of our nation’s natural resources.

Hugh Hammond Bennett Award for Conservation Excellence
Jeff & Jolene Steffen, Crofton, Nebraska
Jeff and Jolene Steffen have farmed southeast of Crofton along Bow Creek since 1984. Their diversified operation includes row crops, livestock, and certified seed production. For more than 30 years, the Steffens have implemented a continuous no-till cropping system and added integrated cover crops and livestock grazing to improve soil health and sustainability.

The Steffens’ conservation plan was originally initiated in the early 1990s and has been continuously revised based on field observations, University Extension insights, research collaborations, agronomist input, and peer exchanges.

Their conservation practices have led to measurable outcomes including reduced nitrogen use, decreased herbicide inputs, elimination of insecticides since 2011, increased water infiltration, improved nutrient cycling, and enhanced biological activity. Their backyard borders the Bow Creek, a treasured family landmark, further motivating their efforts to reduce soil erosion and enhance water quality.

Lewis & Clark NRD General Manager Annette Sudbeck emphasized the Steffens’ influence beyond their operation.

“What makes Jeff and Jolene truly remarkable is not only how they manage their own farm, but how generously they share their experiences with others,” she added.

The Hugh Hammond Bennett Award for Conservation Excellence presented by the National Conservation Planning Partnership (NCPP) recognizes producers and conservation planners who demonstrate exceptional leadership and achievements in conservation planning and implementation—continuing the legacy of Hugh Hammond Bennett, widely regarded as the “father of soil conservation.”



Guide for Selecting Forage Species Available from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach

Cattle producers preparing for spring and summer-planted pastures can now access a new publication from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach that is designed to assist with forage selection. “Selecting Forage Species” is available for download at no cost from the ISU Extension Store. The publication was previously known as PM1792.

Many factors must be considered when choosing a forage species, including environmental conditions, soil properties, intended use and animal requirements. Additionally, toxicities can occur, depending on the species. Prussic acid, for example, can be fatal to cattle, but knowing these risks allows producers to manage them effectively.

While selecting a forage species includes several critical precautions, the publication aims to simplify the process. It features clear tables of forage species management considerations, allowing producers to easily compare species based on life cycle, common uses, expected yields, tolerance to acidity and other relevant precautions.

Assistant professor, extension forage specialist and publication author Shelby Gruss emphasized the importance of carefully selecting a species that fits operational and animal needs.

“There is no single ‘miracle’ forage that suits every situation; proper management is necessary,” she said. “Each forage species has benefits and limitations, making it important to select the right combination to address specific gaps in a forage system.

"Species selection is the start of a well-producing pasture, hayfield and crop rotation that enhances year-round forage production,” Gruss added.



Virtual Field Day to Discuss Manure Application and Cover Crop Planting Timing to Maximize Water Quality Benefits in Corn

Iowa Learning Farms, in partnership with the Iowa Nutrient Research Center, will host a virtual field day on Thursday, March 12, at 1 p.m. Central time. The event, which is available at no cost, will feature a live discussion with Dan Andersen, associate professor and extension agriculture engineering specialist at Iowa State University, Raj Raman, Morrill Professor of agricultural and biosystems engineering and Philip Rockson, agricultural and biosystems engineering graduate research assistant at Iowa State.

The virtual field day aims to provide valuable insights into the impacts of different cover crop systems and manure application methods on water quality and corn yield.

“We've done a fair amount of work on the timing of manure application, looking at late fall manure versus early fall manure impacts on corn yield and water quality, knowing that some people are stressed about ‘when can we get manure on in the fall,’” noted Andersen. “We saw huge timing responses, and one of the next questions was ‘How much different is it when you move manure application to spring?’”

In this innovative project, funded in part by the Iowa Nutrient Research Center, the focus is on how timing affects yield and water quality when comparing fall and spring manure applications.

Any person interested in cover crops, manure application or water quality is welcome to attend the virtual field day. Participants are also encouraged to bring any questions they would like to ask.

To participate in the live virtual field day, visit the Iowa Learning Farms website https://www.iowalearningfarms.org/events/manure-cover-crop-virtual-field-day, or join from a dial-in phone line: dial 646-876-9923 or 646-931-3860, with meeting ID 914 1198 4892. The field day will be recorded and archived on the ILF Virtual Field Day Archive for future viewing.

Participants may be eligible for a Certified Crop Adviser board-approved continuing education unit. Information about how to apply for and receive the CEU will be provided at the end of the event.



DMC Signup Ends Feb. 26; NMPF Urges Farmers to Lock in Benefits

Signup for the Dairy Margin Coverage Program ends Thursday, Feb 26. The National Milk Producers Federation is urging farmers to apply for the program as part of a risk management strategy that helps dairy producers weather economic swings.

“Dairy Margin Coverage is an essential part of a dairy farmer’s business resilience,” Gregg Doud, president & CEO of NMPF, said. “Smaller farmers gain important protection against lower margins, while larger farmers gain catastrophic coverage at little or even no cost.

“This signup is the first since the program was reauthorized last year, and it includes coverage improvements as well as a 25% premium reduction for a long-term commitment,” he continued. “Farmers can benefit greatly from participating in a program that has helped thousands of dairies.”

DMC changes made as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed last year include:
    An update to production history based on the highest annual milk production level from any one of the 2021, 2022, or 2023 calendar years.
    USDA clarification on how new operations (i.e., those that began marketing milk after Jan. 1, 2023) will be able to establish production history.
    Eligibility for operations to enroll their first 6 million pounds of production at the Tier 1 level, up from 5 million pounds, with all additional production covered under Tier 2. Premium rate fees under Tiers 1 and 2 are unchanged.
    An opportunity for operations to make a one-time election of coverage level and coverage percentage, “locking in” those elections for a six-year period from January 2026-December 2031. Those who elect this option must participate in DMC at the same coverage levels for the six-year period and will receive a 25% premium discount for doing so.

Farmers interested in participating in DMC can complete their paperwork in consultation with their local Farm Service Agency Office. Cooperatives also stand ready to assist.