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.
Agricultural, Farm & Ranch Resources
Early Childhood
Meet Our Office Staff
Jackie Steffen
Early Childhood Extension Educator serving Cedar, Knox, Antelope, Boon, Nance, Dakota, Dixon, Wayne, and Pierce Counties.
jsteffen2@unl.edu
Ben Beckman
Beef Specialist serving Cedar, Knox, Pierce, Madison, and Antelope Counties.
ben.beckman@unl.edu
Megan Hanefeldt
4-H Youth Development Extension Educator serving Cedar and Knox Counties.
megan.hanefeldt@unl.edu
(402) 288-5611
2025 Nebraska Extension Drought Prep Program for Cattle Producers
Nebraska Extension Specialists and Farm Service Agency Staff discuss current drought conditions, the outlook for the spring and summer and drought disaster programs that farmers and ranchers can utilize to help mitigate drought impacts this year. Visit https://youtu.be/y3aOqQcmRKo?si=CIdF1PeiYUp-jJo4
0:00 Dr. Eric Hunt Current Conditions and Outlook
18:15 Dr. Mitch Stephenson Rangeland Response to Drought
39:00 Dr. Jerry Volesky Annual Forage Options During Drought
55:50 Dr. Karla Wilke Feeding Production Cows in Confinement
1:20:40 Laura Baker USDA Farm Service Agency Disaster Programs to Assist with Drought
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. Nebraska Extension in Cedar County has water test kits provided from the Central District Health Department. 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
Spring Turn-Out
Spring feels like it’s finally here and, pastures are greening up. As we let animals out to summer pasture, deciding which pastures should be first and when to pull the trigger are important questions to consider to ensure that our grazing doesn’t cause unwanted harm.
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Planning First Cutting Alfalfa
As spring rolls into full swing across Nebraska, it's time to think ahead—specifically, to the first alfalfa cutting of the season. That first harvest is more than just a kickoff to the hay season. It sets the tone for yield, forage quality, and your entire harvest schedule for the rest of the year.
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