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Keith Umstead challenges youth to be their best

Latest Updates from Statewide 4-H - Thu, 04/06/2023 - 18:00

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Keith Umstead is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 6. Keith volunteers with the Nance County 4-H program and was nominated by Steve Pritchard, Nebraska Extension Educator in Boone and Nance Counties.

"As the local 4-H Educator in Boone County, I have known Keith for four years, and he portrays the true spirit of 4-H volunteerism," wrote Pritchard. "He has been very dedicated to the 4-H program in Nance County."

Keith currently serves as the Nance County 4-H Council president, serving on various committees. He has given a tremendous amount of time to see that county fair, workshops, and other 4-H events are well-organized, and he does it all with a smile. Keith is also the club leader for the local Hot Shots 4-H Club. Keith is a Level 1, Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor with multiple discipline certifications. Typically, he runs a 6-8 week program during the winter and another 6-8 week program during the summer. As a certified instructor, Keith has taught hundreds of young people the safe and responsible use of firearms, sound decision-making, self-discipline, and concentration. Keith has a passion for helping youth put forward their best effort. As a highly respected community member, he is an excellent role model for young people. He demonstrates high character and strong morals instilling these values in the young people he works with. 

"He challenges the youth to be their best," said Pritchard.

Tell us about yourself.

I enjoy helping with 4-H between being on 4-H council and club leader with Nance County Hot Shots 4-H Shooting Sport Club. In my free time I enjoy the great outdoors hunting and shooting firearms/archery. But my favorite past time is just spending quality time with close family.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

I look forward to teaching youth how to be responsible and safe all while having FUN with archery and firearms.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

I don’t have a specific favorite memory because I have multiple, and they happen at almost every practice every time a child lights up and smiles ear to ear when they realize they have accomplished a goal!!

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

By keeping every interaction fun and exciting while learning discipline and respect for themself and others.

Allison Walbrecht creates opportunities for all youth to belong

Latest Updates from Statewide 4-H - Thu, 04/06/2023 - 15:34

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Allison Walbrecht is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 9. Allison volunteers with the Lancaster County 4-H program and was nominated by Tracy Anderson, Nebraska Extension Educator in Lancaster County.

Allison Walbrecht is a Lancaster County 4-H member, a three-year 4-H leader for the Unified Showing 4-H Club, and a freshman at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Allison has a passion for giving opportunities to all and, as a result, had the idea to start the Unified Showing 4-H Club. This club allows youth with disabilities to participate in 4-H activities and learn about livestock, specifically lambs, through weekly meetings at her family’s farm. Allison pairs youth with disabilities with a teenage “buddy” who helps ensure the youths’ and animals’ safety. Together with their designated lamb, they learn how to care for their lamb, lead it in the ring, and show it

"Through the Unified Showing 4-H Club, Allison has helped youth with disabilities find their spark by providing a safe space to learn, practice, and participate," wrote Anderson. 

Tell us about yourself.

I am currently a Freshman Animal Science major at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln, minoring in Engler Entrepreneurship and Nebraska Beef Industry Scholars.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Growing up as a fifth generation farmer on my family's cow calf operation I fell in love with agriculture, going to school in Lincoln I saw how this industry was not accessible to everyone. I love volunteering with 4-H because I get to feed my own passion of agriculture while watching youth fall in love with it as well.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

In 2022 Unified Showing was in 3 counties, all of whom had their county fairs on the same day. My team helped over 40 participants show at 3 different county fairs in a matter of 8 hours. To watch all the hard work over the year pay off as youth who typically lack opportunities to be involved had bleachers packed with family, friends and community members all eager to cheer them on, was by far the most meaningful part.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

Youth with disabilities unfortunately have limited opportunities within agriculture to be involved. Since starting this program I have seen kids come alive as they are able to connect with their animals, other youth with disabilities, and youth from the community who are eager to befriend them. When asking them what they are interested in doing when they grow up many say to continue working with animals. I have been fortunate enough to watch as they fall in love with agriculture and have myself been able to refall in love with it through their eyes.

Water for Food Conference to Address Water and Food Security in a Changing World

Latest Updates from cropwatch.unl.edu - Thu, 04/06/2023 - 14:53
The 2023 Water for Food Global Conference will be held May 8-11. A special discount is offered for faculty, students and staff at the University of Nebraska. (Photo by Craig Chandler, University Communication) This year's conference will focus on innovative ways to improve water and food security by increasing farmers’ resiliency to a changing landscape.

Nebraska Net Farm Income 2022-2023 Update and Outlook

Latest Updates from cropwatch.unl.edu - Thu, 04/06/2023 - 14:18
According to the latest farm income outlook, production and feed expenses are expected to level off this year, and fuel and oil prices are expected to fall modestly. View the full report at the links below. UNL ag finance experts review the latest farm income report, which suggests that Nebraska's net farm income will experience a modest rebound in 2023.

Webinar: The Growing Climate Solutions Act

Latest Updates from cropwatch.unl.edu - Thu, 04/06/2023 - 13:55
Throughout this webinar, Aiken overviews the functions and goals of the Growing Climate Solutions Act and how producers can find success in the ag carbon credit markets. UNL Ag Law and Water Law Specialist Dave Aiken webinar offers an overview of the Growing Climate Solutions Act and what it means for agriculture with respect to the ag carbon credit market.

Jacqueline Simonson cultivates new opportunities for youth

Latest Updates from Statewide 4-H - Thu, 04/06/2023 - 13:26

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Jacqueline Simonson is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 1. Jacqueline volunteers with the Sheridan County 4-H program and was nominated by Melissa Mracek, Nebraska Extension Educator in the North Panhandle. 

"Jackie is always looking for new ways to help involve youth in new programs or create different sparks," said Mracek.

As a club leader, Jacqueline strives to incorporate youth voice into the club's activities. She empowers older members to take on leadership roles and encourages all members to work collaboratively. Jacqueline supports youth across Sheridan County by serving on the 4-H Council and engaging in fundraising activities. Last year, she raised $1,200 for the local 4-H robotics program.

"Jackie’s mindset will not only help youth members gain new interests but also will help them learn to become active members within their community and want to give back," said Mracek. 

Tell us about yourself.

I'm 37, married for 14 years, and have 3 wonderful kids. Lindsey who is 14, MacKenzie is 11 and Cade is 6

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Helping the kids realize how amazing they are, and helping them find new talents and interests

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

Watching my kids and their friends show animals and enjoy fair week!

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

By helping them when they want to try new things! I love learning with them!

TAPS Program Kickstarts 2023 Competition Season

Latest Updates from cropwatch.unl.edu - Wed, 04/05/2023 - 16:36
The 2023 TAPS Competition participants will soon make their first decisions of the growing season — watch for updates in the coming months as participants choose their seed varieties, manage nitrogen applications and irrigation, and more.

Lindsey Mendenhall inspires fellow members through dog program

Latest Updates from Statewide 4-H - Wed, 04/05/2023 - 16:36

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Lindsey Mendenhall is receiving the Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award. Lindsey is a member and volunteer with the Chase County 4-H program and was nominated by Debbie Kuenning, Nebraska Extension Educator in Perkin and Chase counties. 

Early in her 4-H career, Lindsey found her spark in the 4-H dog project. She never imagined that before her 4-H years were over, she would lead the local dog program. 

"Lindsey has continuously gone above and beyond not only to work on the project she loves herself, but to learn as much as she can and teach it to anyone who is interested," Kuenning wrote. "I admire her determination and work ethic and am extremely proud of the job she has done with our Dog Club!"

The Chase County 4-H Dog Club had struggled to maintain consistent leadership before Lindsey stepped up. It started when she asked the 4-H Council for funds to purchase and build dog agility equipment. Before she knew it, she was teaching other members, helping them train their dogs on courses and equipment she had built, scheduling meetings, and communicating with families. Lindsey grew into the leadership role with grace and maturity. 

With Lindey as the leader, the local 4-H Dog Club now thrives with over 20 active members. Lindsey has expanded local opportunities for 4-H members by helping establish rally and agility classes at the County Fair. She even lends her own dogs to Clover Kid members so they may participate in the Clover Kid Dog Show. Last year, Lindsey inspired and encouraged two fellow members to participate in the State 4-H Dog Show for the first time. 

Tell us about yourself.

I am a sophomore at Wichita State University majoring in biomedical engineering, but when I am home, you usually can find me hanging out with my friends or dogs. During my time in 4-H, I have come to love building bonds through training with my dogs, Buster, Nala, and Rex. I have been active in 4-H since before I could even join; I have shown dogs, cattle, and horses, baked, sewed, built rockets and birdhouses, attempted photography, and enhanced my shooting sports skills.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

When I joined the dog club at the age of 7 with my 4-month-old Golden Retriever puppy, Buster, I never would have thought I would be where I am today! When the main leader who was dedicated to getting Buster and I from the crazy puppy stage to graduate novice moved away, I knew I wanted to step up and lead in the junior leader role. I served as the junior leader for 5 years, and when none of the past leaders were returning last year, I stepped up to the leader. I delight in getting to help younger 4-Hers form bonds with their dogs through 4-H training! My favorite aspect of training dogs is the agility class. In the agility class, youth and their dogs get to apply the basic skills of obedience to a fun and fast-paced course consisting of jumps, tunnels, catwalks, and even teeter-totters. I don’t know who enjoys the course more, the kids or the dogs, but seeing the kids connect with their dogs to improve their time is always rewarding!

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

My favorite memory is when I first introduced the rally and agility classes to our county. When I started dog, our county only had obedience and showmanship classes, and since attending workshops and shows and becoming familiar with rally and agility myself, I wanted to bring it into our county. I pitched the idea to the 4-H Council, and the materials I would need, and they approved. I made and purchased a starting set of agility obstacles and rally sign holders, and created a game plan for how I was going to teach these skills to the others including the leaders. The first year, I started small with a few of the basic rally signs and only 5 obstacles, and I slowly worked my way up to where we are now with all of the 4-H rally signs and over 10 obstacles.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

When their older brother joined dog with their dog, Zip, 2 little clover kids, Sadie and Josie, were disappointed they didn’t get to participate. I offered for them to practice with Buster and Nala during practice, which was a win-win because they were happy that they got to participate and I had my hands free to help others directly. Sadie and Josie loved getting to be like the older kids, and Buster and Nala loved the attention and constant praise! Along with the other clover kids, Sadie and Josie are eager to join 4-H so they can compete in all the classes!

Curried Lentil Soup

Latest Updates from food.unl.edu - Wed, 04/05/2023 - 16:06

Source:

This recipe was created in collaboration with Community Crops and Yazidi Project.

Nutrition Software Used: ESHA Food ProcessorNotes: 

*Any type of lentil can be used in this recipe.
**Other types of thin noodles can be used, such as spaghetti.

 

https://food.unl.edu/recipes/documents/curried-lentil-soup-nep_1.pdfNewsletter/Program:  Nutrition Education Program Archive Link: https://food.unl.edu/nutrition-education-program-nepContact Info: Jean Ann FischerTaxonomy Term Description: 

The Nutrition Education Program (NEP) delivers evidence-based nutrition education and obesity prevention interventions through a combination of education strategies coupled with multi-level community changes that occur within the environment to promote healthy eating and active lifestyles.

This material was funded by USDA's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP and Expanded Food & Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP).

Ingredients:

  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 cups dry lentils* (rinsed)
  • 5 cups water
  • ¼ cup onion, scrubbed with clean vegetable brush under running water, chopped
  • ½ cup carrots, scrubbed with clean vegetable brush under running water, chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, gently rubbed under cold running water, minced
  • ¼ cup uncooked vermicelli noodles**
  • ½ teaspoon curry powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, gently rubbed under cold running water, chopped (optional)
  • 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
  • 1 jalapeño, scrubbed with clean vegetable brush under running water, sliced (optional)

Directions:

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a medium sized saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add lentils and sauté for 3 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
  3. Add water to sauteed lentils. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes, or until tender.
  5. Carefully transfer the lentil mixture into a food processor or blender. Process until smooth. Be careful, it could be hot.
  6. Place processed lentils back into the saucepan and add the sautéed onion, garlic, carrot, vermicelli noodles, curry, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until noodles are tender. Add more water to reach the desired consistency.
  8. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon and jalapeño slices, if desired.
  9. Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Category:  Main Dishes Yield: 6 servings Serving Size: 1½ cupsCalories: 180Total Fat: 5Saturated Fat: 0Potassium: 6Total Sugars: 2Iron: 10Vitamin D: 0Calcium: 2Protein: 9Fiber: 4Added Sugars: 0Total Carbohydrates: 26Sodium: 115Cholesterol: 0Photo by Marusa Jonas

Steve Dirgo provides the passion needed to reignite local 4-H program

Latest Updates from Statewide 4-H - Wed, 04/05/2023 - 15:57

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Steve Dirgo is receiving the Emerging Volunteer Award for Zone 4. Steve volunteers with the Gosper County 4-H program and was nominated by Calvin DeVries, Nebraska Extension Educator in Phelps and Gosper counties. 

The Hot Shots 4-H Club in Gosper County had been inactive for three years when Steve volunteered as a club leader. He started by focusing on the BB gun project and quickly had 20 youth enrolled. With the high demand, Steve now leads two weekly practice sessions - one in the morning and a second in the afternoon each Saturday. Steve emphasizes proper carrying techniques, safety measures, and teamwork during practice. 

"Steve’s passion for the shooting sports project glows through his teaching efforts during club practices. When we think of positive youth development, Steve comes to the top as one of the most impactful volunteers and leader in Gosper County. 4-H is a top priority for Steve and his passion for creating this opportunity for youth is truly amazing," said DeVries. 

Tell us about yourself.

I am happily married, I have two boys ages 9 and 6. This is my first year in 4H, I have truly enjoyed what I have learned so far. My passion is firearms and firearm safety, teaching children about firearms and firearm safety at this young age is very important. We can shall teach them the basic of how to handle a firearm in safe manner. I am very involved in our community, part of the Booster Club for school, I am a full time College student at CCC in Kearney Neb, I work at BD in Holdrege as a Quality Tech / Trainer. The support I receive from my family is endless, and I couldn't do it without them.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Watching the youth grow into outstanding human being. With the knowledge of handling a firearm safely. Weather that is for hunting, or shooting for fun.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

Watching the kids take what lesson we just learned in the classroom and take that knowledge and put it to use on the range.

John Brodersen helps youth thrive through shooting sports program

Latest Updates from Statewide 4-H - Wed, 04/05/2023 - 15:51

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners. 

John Brodersen is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 5. John volunteers with the Cedar County 4-H program and was nominated by Megan Hanefeldt, Nebraska Extension Educator in Knox and Cedar counties. 

"John is one of those volunteers who offers to help and wants only the best for all the 4-H members," wrote Hanefedlt. 

John is a certified archery instructor. Three years ago, he established the local archery program with 30 members! John also serves as the Cedar County sheep and swine assistant superintendent. During fair time, he spends countless hours at the fairgrounds, helping wherever needed.

"The way that John takes his time to educate and inform each participant makes him an outstanding leader. We are very grateful for all the time and effort John puts in to the 4-H program!" wrote Hanefeldt.

Tell us about yourself.

I live on a farm east of Hartington with my wife Tammie and children Kate, Grace, and Ethan. Agronomist for Helena Agri in Osmond, NE. In my spare time, I raise sheep and hunt with family and friends.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Getting to help the kids discover the same love for archery and the outdoors that I do. I can’t describe the pride I feel when it clicks for a kid, and they are just as excited to be there as I am.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

Every kid’s first arrow in the bullseye. The flood of pride that they feel and you get to see on their face is amazing.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

I feel we provide something for the kids that isn’t basketball, football, or volleyball. It’s a sport that everyone can excel at with enough time, no matter how tall, strong, or fast they are. I think just giving those young men and women a place where they can achieve personal growth is huge in their development.

New Nebraska Custom Rates Survey Related to Livestock Services

Latest Updates from beef.unl.edu - Wed, 04/05/2023 - 14:51
Wednesday, April 5, 2023 Many farmers and ranchers make inquiries to Nebraska Extension about prevailing rates paid for various kinds of custom farm services. In addition to the regular biennial custom rates survey, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability has launched a new survey designed to provide market rate information for the Nebraska livestock industry. Producers and operators that perform and provide custom services for others, or that utilize custom services and pay others, are invited to participate in the survey. Spanish: 

Pasture and Forage Minute: Alfalfa Seed Selection, Grasshoppers After Drought

Latest Updates from cropwatch.unl.edu - Wed, 04/05/2023 - 14:14
Though central and western Nebraska a have a higher risk for grasshopper outbreaks this season, a cool, wet spring would mitigate population growth not only for this growing season, but also the following year. Reviewing seed selection to avoid anthracnose and Phytophthora root rot, assessing alfalfa stands and predictions on grasshopper populations following the 2022 drought.

Quick Pickled Daikon Radish and Carrots

Latest Updates from food.unl.edu - Tue, 04/04/2023 - 13:52

Quick pickling is a method of pickling vegetables by soaking them in a vinegar-based solution for a short period of time, usually overnight. Quick pickles are also called refrigerator pickles because they must be stored in the refrigerator and eaten within four weeks, as opposed to canned or fermented vegetables which are processed to make them shelf stable.

Nutrition Software Used: ESHA Food Processorhttps://food.unl.edu/recipes/documents/quick-pickled-daikon-and-carrots-nep_1.pdfNewsletter/Program:  Nutrition Education Program Archive Link: https://food.unl.edu/nutrition-education-program-nepContact Info: Jean Ann FischerTaxonomy Term Description: 

The Nutrition Education Program (NEP) delivers evidence-based nutrition education and obesity prevention interventions through a combination of education strategies coupled with multi-level community changes that occur within the environment to promote healthy eating and active lifestyles.

This material was funded by USDA's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP and Expanded Food & Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP).

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup daikon radish, scrubbed with clean vegetable brush under running water, peeled and julienned
  • 1 cup carrots, scrubbed with clean vegetable brush under running water, peeled and julienned
  • ½ cup apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup water
  • 2 Tablespoons sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Directions:

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. Pack julienned radish and carrots in clean canning jars or a glass container with a tight-fitting lid.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil.
  4. Carefully pour the liquid into the jars, completely covering the vegetables. Let sit uncovered at room temperature to cool, for about one hour.
  5. Close jars tightly and transfer to the refrigerator. Refrigerate overnight before serving.
  6. Drain before serving. Serve with sandwiches, rice bowls, wraps, or tacos.
  7. Store leftovers in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to four weeks.
Category:  Side Dishes Yield: 6 servings Calories: 30Total Fat: 0Saturated Fat: 0Potassium: 4Total Sugars: 6Iron: 0Vitamin D: 0Calcium: 2Protein: 0Fiber: 1Added Sugars: 4Total Carbohydrates: 8Sodium: 220Cholesterol: 0Photo by Marusa Jonas

FarmBits Podcast: Predicting Spores

Latest Updates from cropwatch.unl.edu - Fri, 03/31/2023 - 11:13
In the latest episode, FarmBits chats with Carlos Pizolotto, a Brazilian plant pathologist who is researching predictive models to prevent and control disease outbreaks in agriculture.

FarmBits Podcast: Soybean Solutions with Dr. Koch

Latest Updates from cropwatch.unl.edu - Fri, 03/31/2023 - 11:03
Robert Koch of the University of Minnesota speaks to the FarmBits team about the soybean pest management research being conducted in his lab, using remote sensing for scouting and sampling fields for soybean aphids.

USDA Announces Additional Assistance for Distressed Farmers Facing Financial Risk

Latest Updates from cropwatch.unl.edu - Fri, 03/31/2023 - 10:48
Approximately $123 million in automatic financial assistance has been made available for qualifying Farm Loan Program (FLP) direct loan borrowers who meet certain criteria. The new relief funds will begin dispersement in April, and all producers with open FLP loans will receive a letter that details eligibility, and information about qualifying for assistance and how to apply.

Crop Progress: Minimal Improvements for Winter Wheat, Soil Moisture

Latest Updates from cropwatch.unl.edu - Fri, 03/31/2023 - 10:32
Weekly USDA NASS crop condition reports are set to begin April 3 for the 2023 growing season. Very little change was recorded in winter wheat condition and soil moisture across Nebraska at the end of March, with only 22% of wheat in good-excellent condition.

Online Mapping Service Connects Specialty Crop Growers, Pesticide Applicators and Beekeepers to Protect Sensitive Crops, Pollinators

Latest Updates from cropwatch.unl.edu - Fri, 03/31/2023 - 10:17
FieldWatch covers all registered commercial apiary sites, vineyards, orchards, fruit and vegetable grow sites, nursery and Christmas tree production sites, and certified organic and transitional organic crops. To add your site onto FieldWatch, visit the link below. As the growing season quickly approaches, producers are reminded to use FieldWatch and DriftWatch to protect specialty crop acreage and apiaries, which number in the thousands across Nebraska.

How to Increase Your Happiness in 2023—Part 10

In week 10 of “The Science of Well-Being,” we will recap the top practices you can use to increase your happiness. These recommendations should look familiar if you’ve been following along.