Nebraska Extension in Cedar County

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beef in pasture countryside

Cornhusker Economics: Ag Outlook

Thursday, December 11, 2025,  1:00 - 3:00 pm at Nebraska Extension in Madison County (1305 S 13th St, Norfolk)

The meeting will share updates on crop and livestock markets, farm finances, ag policy and more. It will provide context and practical takeaways to help producers evaluate their risk management plans, adjust to changing conditions and position their operations for long-term success. The meeting will also cover key tax provisions from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that affect agricultural operations, deductions and planning for the 2025 tax year. . Presenters will explore historical farm financial trends and what they see for the year ahead. A policy segment will cover farm program updates, including Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) decisions and directions for producers. 

The meeting is free to attend. Registration is requested by Dec. 8 on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website, https://cap.unl.edu/outlook, or by calling Nebraska Extension in Madison County at 402-370-4040.

Welcome to Nebraska Extension in Cedar County! We are dedicated to empowering individuals, families, and communities with practical, research-based information and innovative programs designed to improve quality of life. Whether you're seeking resources in agriculture, 4-H youth development, health and wellness, or community development, our team is here to connect you with the knowledge and support you need. Explore our services, events, and educational opportunities to see how we can work together to strengthen Cedar County and beyond. Let's grow, learn, and succeed together!

Office Hours   8:00 am - 4:30 pm 
Monday through Friday
Phone   (402) 254-6821
Email   cedar-county@unl.edu

Address   101 E Centre Street, Hartington NE 68739
Office located in basement of annex on northeast corner of courthouse.

Connect with Us

Early Childhood
Fit & Healthy Kids Online Professional Development Workshops
Fit & Healthy Kids Online Professional Development Workshops

Nebraska Growing Readers
Let's Go Outside!  Can You Find?
Book by Jackie & Early Childhood Colleagues

Meet Our Office Staff

Jackie Steffen

 

Jackie Steffen

Early Childhood Extension Educator serving Cedar, Knox, Antelope, Boon, Nance, Dakota, Dixon, Wayne, and Pierce Counties.
jsteffen2@unl.edu 

Ben Beckman
Ben Beckman

Beef Specialist serving Cedar, Knox, Pierce, Madison, and Antelope Counties. 
ben.beckman@unl.edu 

Megan Hanefeldt
Megan Hanefeldt

4-H Youth Development Extension Educator serving Cedar and Knox Counties.
megan.hanefeldt@unl.edu 
(402) 288-5611

Cara Wiebelhaus
Cara Wiebelhaus

4-H Extension Assistant for Cedar County. 
cwiebelhaus5@unl.edu 

Marsha Wuebben

Office Manager
mwuebben2@unl.edu 

Marsha Wuebben

Upcoming Events

Radon Test Kits Available

Radon is the #1 cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.  It is an oderless, naturally occurring, radioactive gas that rises through the soil and can leak into your home through unsealed cracks and holes in your foundation.  Cedar County has some of the highest levels of radon in Nebraska. 

During the winter when your doors and windows are closed is the best time to test for radon. Radon test kits are available at the Nebraska Extension Office in Cedar County. 

For more information on radon visit http://www.radon.com/.

Water Test Kits Available

How safe is your drinking water?  Whether for human or livestock consumption it is good to know if there are any contaminants you should be aware of in your water. Contact the Central District Health Department to request a test kit at 308-385-5175 ext 1160, or email waterlab@cdhd.ne.gov    They test for coliform/e-coli, nitrate, hardness, fluoride, and pH.  

For more information on safe drinking water, visit Water Testing with the CDHD.

Beef & Forage Talk with Ben

Weekly Beef and Forage News Releases 

Strip Grazing: Getting the Most from Winter Feed Resources

Many producers across Nebraska are looking at how to stretch feed resources this winter while keeping costs in check. One of the most effective ways to extend grazing days and improve animal performance is through strip grazing.
Read more


Impact of Grazing Corn Stalks

Corn residue is one of the most cost-efficient feed resources available for livestock owners to graze, offering valuable winter feed.  Research from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln demonstrates that with correct stocking rates, residue grazing provides several soil and crop benefits and minimal downsides.
Read more
 

Ben's Archived Beef News Articles

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