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Nebraska drought conditions on March 28, 2023. (Source: National Drought Mitigation Center) March precipitation did little to stymie ongoing drought in Nebraska, with large swaths of the northeast, southwest and Panhandle remaining in extreme and exceptional drought conditions.

To find 2023 loan rates in your county, visit the Farm Service Agency (FSA) website. National loan rates for 2023 crop year wheat, feed grains and oilseeds remained unchanged from 2022 crop year levels.

The root system of a three-week-old corn plant processed through a computer vision pipeline used to automatically measure different root system architecture traits. (Photo courtesy Nebraska Today) The research team hopes to speed the development of new corn varieties that can tolerate changes in extreme weather conditions and management practices as Nebraska farmers adapt to growing water restrictions and ever higher fertilizer prices.

USDA representatives join UNL experts in this webinar to provide an in-depth analysis of the CRP, including eligibility requirements, enrollment procedures and program guidelines. In this webinar, USDA experts highlight what the Conservation Reserve Program is, how it works, and reviews answers to frequently asked questions about the program to give producers a better understanding of their eligibility status and enrollment requirements.

Historical crop progress data for Nebraska is available at USDA. As of April 9, oat planting in Nebraska was well behind last year's pace while winter wheat condition dropped slightly.

Though the farm finance and ag law clinics are offered monthly at sites across Nebraska, remote sessions are another option — call the number below to arrange a one-on-one meeting via phone or virtual platform. Nebraskans can attend one of the three dates scheduled for free, in-person farm and ag law clinics in April or call to arrange a virtual/phone appointment.

Laura Thompson, director of the Nebraska On-Farm Research Network, makes a presentation at the Commodity Classic in Orlando, describing the benefits to producers from sensor-supported field management. The UNL presentations were in collaboration with NASA. (Photo by Nate Thompson) Faculty members Laura Thompson and Laila Puntel discussed how innovative research at UNL, in partnership with Nebraska producers, is increasing ag production efficiency and profitability, and decreasing its environment impacts.

Stapleton farmer Jon Walz's on-farm research in 2021-22 focused on testing two nitrogen efficiency technologies. Because of this research, Walz was able reduce his nitrogen applications without losing yield, and increase profit. (Photo courtesy Nebraska On-Farm Research Network) Studies are getting underway for the 2023 growing season, but there's still time and availability for Nebraska farmers who are interested in conducting on-farm research this year.

The final results of a three-year study on interseeding cover crops in early-season corn and soybean include observations on yield, soil quality and net return.

Early spring is a good time to evaluate alfalfa stands to assess reseeding needs, and begin control measures on winter annual weeds like pennycress, downy brome and cheatgrass to get the best quality out of your first cutting of alfalfa. This week — Tips on controlling winter annual weeds for optimum first cutting hay quality, evaluating alfalfa stands with a hay square, and grazing rye, winter wheat and triticale during a cool start to spring,

Roll out the red carpet! You’ve seen the red carpet rolled out for any number of award shows—the Oscars, the Grammy’s, or the CMT awards. Do communities ever roll out the red carpet?

Recently Marilyn Schlake and I went to Hastings and provided Red Carpet Service training for the Hastings Chamber of Commerce and Adams County Tourism. We held two sessions and had a wide cross section of what we call "front line employees." The attendees ranged from business owners, to waiters and waitresses, to hotel front desk employees.

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.

Micah Scholl is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 11. Micah volunteers with the Pawnee County 4-H program and was nominated by Mary Moser, Nebraska Extension Educator in Pawnee County.

"Micah is very passionate and is very willing to share his experiences with the youth in our county, so his enthusiasm is contagious," said Moser.

Micah is passionate about showing swine and wants to help every Pawnee County 4-H member learn to show swine with competency and confidence. He started by hosting a clinic to teach youth how to select, train, feed, and show their project animals. He then volunteered at the county swine show. Micah is stepping up to serve as the county fair swine superintendent this year. He plans to offer more clinics to help exhibitors in this new role. 

"The youth that he has helped definitely feel pride when they can exhibit their animal at a higher level and not only does the judge comment but members of the community notice the time and effort put into the project," said Moser. "Changes would not have been made without Micah’s help."

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Micah Scholl. I am 26 years old. I Grew up in Lincoln, Nebraska but currently reside in Pawnee City, Nebraska, where I am currently working on becoming a licensed electrician through an apprenticeship program and own and Operate Ignite Genetics. In my "free time," I enjoy going to every stock show I can and meeting new people.

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

Helping others achieve stuff that they never have before or never imagined

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

Well, first, I hope the memories are not over, but right now, the one that's at the top is successfully getting somebody on the dirt at the NSF and for them to have their name recognized for their hard work in front of people.

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

By hopefully whoever I deal with, giving them confidence in whatever they do.

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.

Sally B Bryner is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 1. Sally volunteers with the Box Butte County 4-H program and was nominated by Melissa Mracek, Nebraska Extension Educator in Box Butte County.

Even though she has a busy work schedule, Sally supports the Box Butte 4-H program whenever possible. She often lends a hand at the Fort Robinson Horse Camp. Sally has taught at the local babysitting workshops, and she always makes sure to provide items for the local fundraiser. 

Sally is most well-known, however, for leading the county horse program. She serves as the county fair horse superintendent. In this role, Sally is responsible for purchasing show awards, managing the program, preparing the exhibitor packets, and overseeing the condition of the arena. As the 4-H Horse Club leader, she holds weekly practices throughout the summer to help members learn riding basics and gain horsemanship knowledge. Sally is a certified examiner for the Nebraska 4-H Horsemanship Advancement Level program and leads county-wide horsemanship and riding workshop. 

"Sally is an awesome horse instructor," said Melissa. "She understands the youth and works with them to help them achieve their goals and not only become excellent riders but also knowledgeable horse owners."

Sally encourages local members to grow their project experiences. She is a cheerleader for the Futurity program, through which youth spend four years training a young horse. She ensures these youth are celebrated at the county fair every year. Thanks to her support and guidance, several of Sally’s club members have gone on to compete in statewide rodeo competitions and horse shows.

"My husband attended her practices as a youth. When he went to college, he had the confidence and abilities to participate in the equine riding classes at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, as well as was recruited to be a member of the Equestrian team," shared Mracek. "Currently, we own horses, and I do believe that had it not been for Sally’s classes, it would have taken a lot of encouragement and training for that to happen otherwise."

Tell us about yourself.

I am a 20+ year 4-H volunteer, as I started volunteering the following year after I was no longer of 4-H age. I especially enjoy volunteering for the horse project, as that has been my passion since I was a young girl. I participated in the 4-H horse project for my full ten years in 4-H.

I also enjoy showing horses myself when I am able to find the time to do so. I have always enjoyed my time as a volunteer in Box Butte County, where I have resided most of my life, growing up in Alliance and returning after obtaining my education. I currently reside outside of Hemingford on a small "hobby" farm. I also work full-time as Nurse Practitioner at a local Rural Health Clinic in Alliance.

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

Helping youth learn about their project and seeing that growth as the summer months progress.

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

One of my favorite memories as a 4-H volunteer would be watching youth not only grow in their projects but into young adults and enjoying it so much they also return as 4-H volunteers!

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

I have tried to keep youth engaged in their projects. I also try to help them learn new things about their project. I love teaching and pushing youth to set goals and try my best to help them achieve those goals.

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.

Nancy Lashley is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 3. Nancy volunteers with the Logan County 4-H program and was nominated by Caitlyn Jacobson, Nebraska Extension Educator in Lincoln, Logan, and McPherson Counties.

Nancy, as well as her husband Bart, has been a pillar in the Logan County 4-H community for over 30 years. Their involvement began when their children were members, and now, they maintain their involvement through various volunteer roles. Nancy has been integral in establishing and maintaining the county shooting sports program. Currently, she is serving as the 4-H Council president. She has even assisted in recruiting volunteers to support the program. As a mentor for new 4-H families, Nancy takes time to build relationships, establish open lines of communication, and ensure everyone is informed about 4-H events.

"Her creativity allows her to support families in finding more economic ways of doing a project," wrote Caitlyn. "This has allowed more families to get involved and complete projects they otherwise would not have."

Nancy goes above and beyond to support youth. As a retired teacher, she understands how to engage youth and create excitement. She uses this in her volunteer role to help connect youth with projects and activities that fit their interests and organize workshops and showmanship clinics. Nancy takes extra steps to ensure environments are inclusive and appropriate for youth with unique needs. 

"I have witnessed her coach youth through their frustrations and offer alternative solutions," wrote Caitlyn. "She also celebrates the small and big victories with them."

Tell us about yourself.

I have been involved with 4-H for almost 60 years. First as a member, then as a leader. My main focus as a member was in home environment. When my kids were in 4-H, we branched out into the livestock- horse, sheep, dog, cat, and companion animals. Currently, I help with Shooting Sports and serve on the Logan County 4-H Council.

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

Helping kids.

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

The year my daughter won the overall small animal (dog, cat, chickens, rabbits & companion animals) trophy for her salamander.

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

I’ve led many sewing workshops and hope that my love of sewing has rubbed off on some of them.

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.

Judy Rath is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 2. Judy volunteers with the Thomas County 4-H program and was nominated by Tayler Rath.

Judy has served as the Thomas County 4-H Achievers Club leader for over ten years. In a rural community, Judy grew a small gathering into a successful club by organizing weekly meetings focused on various projects, such as STEM, animal science, woodworking, and welding. Judy also established a local FIRST LEGO League robotics team, the Central Sandhills MechTechs, that has won two regional tournaments and advanced to the state championships several times.

"What began as a small gathering in rural cattle country flourished into a successful program enabling youth to grow their knowledge, learn new skills they might have otherwise never known (as the nearest equivalent opportunity would have been hours away), and inspire them to reach for the stars," wrote Tayler. "Because of the dedication of Judith and her empowering belief in the youth of the community, dozens of kids aspiring to become our future ranchers, farmers, scientists, engineers, or anything they set their minds to, were able to pursue their dreams."

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Omaha, NE, and moved to Thedford, NE, when my sons were ages 2 and 3. I was a Stay at Home Mom/Rancher's Wife. I homeschooled my two sons throughout their school careers. My oldest needed challenging subjects in the school atmosphere, and my youngest had several medical needs. Homeschooling was a blessing to our family. As my sons came of age, they joined the local 4-H club, where they were able to find new friends and socialize with youth their age. After the first few years, we found ourselves without a 4-H Club Leader, so I volunteered.

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

When I volunteer, I rely on my knowledge and experiences and how I can share those with others. With 4-H, volunteering gave me the chance to share all that I know and provide the youth in our small community with opportunities outside of the basics of public school. In teaching and sharing various subjects such as robotics, STEM, art, and animal husbandry, just to name a few, I gave our 4-Hers the chance to find their own path. In learning various different subjects and getting a hands-on experience, we provide 4-Hers with the chance to see what they like to do, to see what things touch their heart and soul, what they can do to have that positive effect on others, not only their peers but others that they may come in contact with.

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

My favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer was seeing all of the kids come together as a group, encouraging one another, whether it be at static exhibits for fair, robotics competition, or livestock showmanship, having a positive impact on one another that they will remember for the rest of their lives.

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

To find your spark, youth must have opportunities in various subjects so that they can find their true path, their purpose, that place where their heart goes to and a smile lights up their face. We have the ability to provide those opportunities with our experience and knowledge.

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.

The Ray and Betty Vrbka family is receiving the Multi-Generation Family of Volunteers Award. The family, including four generations who volunteer with the Polk County 4-H program, was nominated by Colleen Pallas, Nebraska Extension Assistant in Polk County.

"The Late Ray and Betty Vrbka family has been an integral part of the Polk County 4-H program since I started 30 years ago," wrote Pallas. "But their service to Polk County started way before then!"

Ray was a Polk County 4-H member growing up showing dairy cattle in the 1930s. Betty started leading the Rainbow 4-H Club in 1961 and continued serving as the club leader for over ten years. Into the late 2000s, she also led workshops teaching local youth how to make her famous cinnamon twists, Kolaches and Kuchens.

The Late Susan Ott, their daughter, served as the Young Shelby Pioneers 4-H Club leader for many years, a 4-H Council member for nine years, and the Ag Engineering fair superintendent for over 25 years.

Angie King, another daughter, served on the 4-H Council for ten years and is the current 4-H Snack Shack manager. Angie also volunteers as a 4-H superintendent for Ag Engineering and Horticulture, serving over 25 years.

Ray and Betty’s grandchildren continue to be active and volunteer for the Polk County 4-H program serving as fair superintendents and workshop leaders. Stacy Ott Stewart is now a club leader, fair superintendent, and 4-H Council member. Chase King, Ashley King Robbins, Helen King Bender, Haley King Teten, and Cecelia King have helped lead workshops, sharing their skills and talents learned through their 4-H projects. The King kids continue to serve as fair superintendents and volunteer whenever asked.

Ray and Betty Vrbka now have great-grandchildren in the Polk County 4-H program. McKenna and Alexa Stewart volunteer to help with the 4-H Snack Shack and help with the Clover Kids program.

"Volunteering to serve in the Polk County 4-H program is a deep-rooted part of the Vrbka legacy," wrote Pallas. "The Polk County 4-H program is so thankful for all that this family has done throughout the years for our 4-H program."

Tell us about yourselves.

Angie King: I am a second-generation 4-H member. I have been volunteering as a superintendent for 25 years. My kids Chase, Ashley, Helen, Haley, and Cecelia all were members of 4-H in Polk County, where my parents and I were members. My kids have volunteered or currently volunteering at the fair. We are proud bakers, crafters, photographers, hog farmers, and sewers. I am looking forward to seeing my grandchildren be a part of 4-H in the near future.

Stacy Stewart: My brothers and I were raised as Polk County 4-H members in the Young Shelby Pioneers 4-H Club. Our mom Susan Ott was our leader. We showed sheep, pigs, and lots of other exhibits. I continue to live in Polk County and am currently on the Polk County 4-H Council and am the leader of the Blossomfield 4-H Club that my 3 girls are members of. My girls' favorite projects are Quilts of Valor.

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

Angie King: I look forward to helping the kids. 4-H is based on giving others skills to become better people, and we are lucky to share our talents and knowledge to others. Not many people are able to share with others, but 4-H has given us the opportunity to help others while improving our community.

Stacy Stewart: I love seeing the excitement in the youth of our county.

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

Angie King: Many memories consist of working with my sister and kids on check-in day. As the superintendent of Ag Engineering, we are able to help kids check-in projects and then convince them to speak with the judge. Watching scared kids face their fears and talk about their projects is fun for us. Watching a kid be scared and turn into a kid that is proud of their project is always one of my favorites.

Stacy Stewart: My favorite memory is serving alongside my mom during the fair experience.

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

Angie King: Our family showed hogs at the fair also. We were able to help kids gain skills and techniques to improve their showmanship. We were able to watch the excitement of working together and the community being built while teaching each other to become better people.

Stacey Stewart: I have loved helping youth learn new concepts and making projects to take to the fair.

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.

Chase Prentice is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 3. Chase volunteers with the Lincoln County 4-H program and was nominated by Caitlyn Jacobson, Nebraska Extension Educator in Lincoln, Logan, and McPherson Counties.

As a club leader and certified shooting sports instructor, Chase prioritizes positive youth development. He encourages youth to try new projects and explore different subject areas. Chase creates an environment where youth can thrive. He ensures everyone has an opportunity to participate, actively engages youth in conversations, and coaches them throughout their learning experiences. As a result, he has built strong and meaningful relationships with his club members. 

"He has also built strong relationships with his club members in the short year he has been involved in Lincoln. Co. 4-H," wrote Jacobson. "His growth mindset mentality will continue to set him up to be a fantastic leader for many years."

Tell us about yourself.

I have been working as a volunteer in youth development for several years. When my wife and I volunteered to help with our local 4-H, we found out that they wanted to restart the Shooting Sports program. I volunteered to get trained as an Archey Instructor and became a part of the team that is helping to rebuild the Shooting Sports program for our area. I find it to be an exciting role because of my interests in youth development, archery, and community development. I am excited to see where the Shooting Sports program is headed for our county and for the chance to get to be a part of its development.

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

I look forward to seeing club members become confident in new skills as well as the growth and development club members get in skills they already possess. I also enjoy using my training and knowledge to instruct club members to help them develop skills so that they can be confident in their own abilities.

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

The first time teaching as an Archery Instructor for 4-H. It was great to see my training pay off in instructing shooters not only the proper safety techniques and protocols but also letting them have a great time learning by doing using archery equipment in a safe and respectful manner. Seeing the joy on club members' faces as they were shooting their bows is something I strive for, not just teaching club members skills but also giving them an environment in which they could have fun learning in.

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

Being a Shooting Instructor for 4-H has given me the opportunity to instruct youth in proper shooting techniques, which has given several club members the confidence to try out a new shooting discipline that they would not have had the opportunity to before. A few of the club members who were a little hesitant to try different disciplines in our shooting sports program have quickly enjoyed developing those new skills once they tried it out.

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.

Michael Bracht is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 8. Michael volunteers with the Burt County 4-H program and was nominated by Stacey Keys, Nebraska Extension Assistant in Burt County.

As a member, Michael discovered his spark through the 4-H robotics program, which led him to pursue a mechanical engineering degree. Though he started college in 2019, he still makes time to come home and share his passion with Burt County 4-H members. Every year, Michael mentors the Mindstormers FIRST LEGO League team. He helps them with their challenge and supports them during competitions. Michael also helps with robotics and rocketry workshops throughout the summer. He is always finding creative ways to teach youth how to program and build robots.

Tell us about yourself.

I am a senior attending Iowa State University studying mechanical engineering. Since I was a freshman in high school, I have mentored a 4-H First Lego League robotics club. As a mentor, I teach several members how to build and program robots, as well as lead 4-H robotics and rocket camps. I volunteer as an assistant for the judge of the technology exhibits and do STEM (Science, technology, engineering, and math) demonstrations at the county fair.

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

Watching the innovation of the 4-H and robot club members as they solve problems related to the robot or other technology projects

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

Attending State First Lego League competition with the club.

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

I have helped youth find their spark by introducing them to STEM fields, especially rockets and robots. This includes showing new members how to set up a rocket to launch safely, program robots to complete a task as well as create effective documentation for their project.

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.

Sherlyn Damme is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 11. Sherlyn volunteers with the Otoe County 4-H program and was nominated by Cheryl Goff, Nebraska Extension Office Manager in Otoe County.

"Sherlyn is well known by most Otoe County 4-Her's, and they know they can count on her to help them grow and thrive," shared Goff. "Every county needs a Sherlyn to keep the 4-H program alive and strong."

Sherlyn started the Otoe County 4-H shooting sports program four years ago and has since seen membership more than double! She is now working with other volunteers to start shotgun and archery clubs. Sherlyn is an active 4-H Council member and attends all Ag Society meetings as the council representative. This year, she was invaluable in helping update the county fairbook and awards program. Last year, Sherlyn was instrumental in developing the Exploration Area at the Otoe County Fair. Sherlyn can be found leading an activity at the Clover Kid Camp every year. While helping her own children participate in events, Sherlyn also volunteers her time in the 4-H Exhibit Hall at the Nebraska State Fair.

"She doesn't ask for any credit but deserves so much for her continued time and effort to make our 4-H program strong and resilient," wrote Goff.

Tell us about yourself.

Married to my husband, Lynn. We have two boys, Cody - age 18, and Ryan - age 15. We live and farm in the country near Lorton, NE. I taught Physical Education, coached for 10 years, and then substitute taught for 17 years. My favorite hobbies when I have time include gardening, crafts/woodworking, and photography. I also enjoy watching my kids and their peers in all the activities they participate in.

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

As a volunteer, I simply look forward to helping others and making a positive impact in 4-H. I have been blessed to work alongside other amazing volunteers and professional staff that make up the 4-H community.

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

As a shooting sports leader, I get to watch the excitement a 4-H member has when they find success, especially after struggling and being frustrated. There is something about their expressions and enthusiasm that is unforgettable. Those moments are why I do what I do.

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

I think I have helped youth find their spark by being an active listener, by being encouraging, and by helping provide new local 4-H opportunities for youth.