Nebraska Extension Educator - Holt & Boyd Counties - LaDonna Werth
Nebraska Extension Educator - Holt & Boyd Counties - Amy Timmerman
Nebraska Extension Educator - Holt, Boyd, Garfield, Loup, & Wheeler Counties - Bethany Johnston
Nebraska Extension Educator - Brown, Rock, & Keya Paha Counties - Brittany Spieker
Nebraska 4-H Assistant - Holt & Boyd Counties - Debra Walnofer
February 1: DUE: Holt County 4-H Council High School Senior Scholarship Applications, https://go.unl.edu/holt_county_4-h_scholarships
February 2: Online Calving College, 7:30pm-8:45pm, Register by Jan. 12: https://cvent.me/GOYAra, More info: go.unl.edu/calving_college
February 3: DUE: 4-H Special Garden Project, TO ORDER SEEDS: Complete the form https://go.unl.edu/holtboydspecialgardenseeds by 12:00noon
February 3: DUE: 4-H Special Agronomy Project, TO ORDER SEEDS: Complete the form https://go.unl.edu/holtboydspecialagronomyseeds by 12:00noon
February 5: Recertification Commercial/Noncommercial Pesticide Training, 8:30am-5:00pm, Norfolk, NE
February 9: In-Person Calving College, 7:30pm-8:45pm, Valentine, NE. Register by Jan. 12: https://cvent.me/GOYAra, More info: go.unl.edu/calving_college
February 10: Recertification Commercial/Noncommercial Pesticide Training, 8:30am-5:00pm, Madison County Extension, Norfolk, NE
February 11: In-Person Calving College, 7:30pm-8:45pm, Valentine, NE. Register by Jan. 12: https://cvent.me/GOYAra, More info: go.unl.edu/calving_college
February 13: Private Pesticide Training, 9:30am, Boyd County Courthouse, Butte, NE
February 16: Agricultural Land Management Quarterly, 12:00pm-1:00pm, Zoom: https://unl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gPeh4XJlTYyrdAIAsRZM7A, jjansen4@unl.edu
February 19: Private Pesticide Training, 1:00pm, Pierce County Courthouse Extension Meeting Room, Pierce, NE
February 19: Private Pesticide Training, 6:00pm, Pierce County Courthouse Extension Meeting Room, Pierce, NE
February 20: Private Pesticide Training, 9:30am, Holt County Annex Meeting Room, O’Neill, NE
February 21: Buffalo County Shooting Sports 4-H Club Air Gun Invite, 7:00am, Buffalo County Extension, Kearney, NE, Contact: Contact: Jason Oman, (308) 870-0911, jasonoman@hotmail.com
February 23: Face-To-Face YQCA Training, 7:00-8:30pm, Holt County Courthouse Annex Meeting Room, O’Neill, NE
February 25: Private Pesticide Training, 1:30pm, New Community Building, Bassett, NE
February 28: Holt County Market Beef and Second Year Bucket Calf Weigh-In, 9:00-11:00am, Atkinson Sale Barn, Atkinson, NE
February 28 - March 16: Holt County Market Beef and Second Year Bucket Calf Weigh-On-Your-Own Days
February 28: 2026 Nebraska State Three-Position CMP Championships, 7:00am MST, Burkholder Building, Alliance, NE, Contact: Bryant Quick, (308) 760-8713, bryantquick1@gmail.com
February 28: Pierce County Shooting Sports 4-H Club 36th Annual BB Gun; Air Rifle and Air Pistol Shoot, 8:15am CST, Pierce County Fairgrounds Pavillion, Pierce, NE, Contact: Jen or David Thomsen, (402) 329-4504, djgunsnroses@hotmail.com
Help Children Develop A Sense Of Responsibility
Children need to develop a sense of responsibility to be prepared for adult living. Teaching responsibility can begin when they are young and is one of the best values for children to possess.
Cooperating with and helping others can be an important way for children to learn responsibility. Parents can help children develop and improve their cooperative attitudes by giving them tasks that are challenging, satisfying and appropriate for their level of development. Children benefit when they feel that they are doing a real job and making a contribution to the family.
Regular family meetings are also valuable learning experiences, teaching children about decision making and cooperation. These meetings give family members an opportunity to discuss and work on issues, and to plan events or outings together.
Here are some tips that can help children learn to assume responsibility:
- Give children clear and positive instructions for doing the task and plenty of time to complete it.
- Avoid doing things for your children that they can do for themselves. Children must learn from their experiences through trial and error, and by taking the time to figure it out. Let children assume responsibility and accept their standards.
- Ask children instead of ordering. Demanding or forcing children to do tasks is not the way to help them develop responsibility. Children will be willing to help out when they feel they are needed and are made to feel they can do the job.
LaDonna Werth
Extension Educator
Phone: 402-336-2760
E-mail: lwerth2@unl.edu
- Use consequences. It is important that parents explain what the consequences will be for breaking a limit, which will help children develop a sense of accountability for their actions.
- Be a good role model. Children are learning by watching and imitating what they see their parents do. Parents need to model appropriate behaviors, such as keeping promises, sharing, cooperating, helping, taking care of their belongings and being responsible.
Nina Chen, Ph.D., CFLE, former Human Development Specialist, Jackson County, University of Missouri Extension
Resources:
Hamilton, A. 2006. Teaching Children Self-Control and Self-Responsibility: Parenting 101. University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension.
Tucker, B. 1998. Building Responsibility. University of Arizona Cooperative Extension
How Agri-Tech Is Reshaping Labor Demand in Nebraska Agriculture
Introduction
Nebraska agriculture has long depended on a mix of family labor, hired workers, and custom operators. In recent years, more producers have added advanced technology to that mix to boost efficiency, manage risk, and cope with labor shortages (USDA, 2022). Automation, precision systems, robotics, and data platforms are not just changing how tasks are done; they are also changing the types of skills farms need on the payroll. Understanding these shifts in labor demand is increasingly important for farm managers, Extension educators, rural communities, and workforce planners (Sand, 2023; USDA, 2022).
Technology Adoption in Nebraska Agriculture
Nebraska farmers are embracing a growing range of digital tools. UNL Extension reports that Nebraska producers are among the national leaders in adopting precision agriculture technologies, including GPS guidance, yield monitoring, variable‑rate input application, and digital irrigation management (Irmak, 2019; Schimmelpfennig, 2016; UNL Extension, 2024a). Recent UNL work on digital agriculture notes rapidly expanding use of sensors, drones, robotics, and cloud‑based systems across both crop and livestock sectors (Balboa, et.al , 2024; Strategic Discussions for Nebraska, 2023). Broadband connectivity, documented in FCC broadband deployment reports, has improved substantially in rural Nebraska, supporting remote monitoring, farm management software, and data sharing (FCC, 2023; USDA NASS, 2023).
Amy Timmerman
Extension Educator
Phone: 402-336-2760
E-mail: atimmerman2@unl.edu
In livestock operations, technologies such as electronic ID tags, automated feeding systems, remote water monitoring, and precision livestock tools are spreading quickly. Research by Bewley and others on precision dairy management and automation, as well as work on precision livestock farming adoption, documents how these systems change both labor needs and management tasks (Bewley, 2015; Bewley & Dolecheck, 2018; Brummer et al., 2021; Boyle et al., 2022).
Labor Substitutions and Changing Job Roles
Automation frequently substitutes for repetitive manual labor. Robotic milking systems, automated or semi-autonomous tractors, sensor-driven irrigation systems, and automated feeding equipment can significantly reduce time spent on routine tasks (Bewley, 2015; King et al., 2020; Irmak, 2019). Rather than simply eliminating workers, however, these technologies shift labor demand toward higher‑skill roles focused on oversight, troubleshooting, and decision‑making. Employees are increasingly expected to manage data, interface with software, and coordinate with vendors, instead of performing traditional manual labor. This creates demand for workers with blended skills in agriculture, mechanics, and information technology (USDA, 2022; Nebraska Community College Consortium, 2023).
Precision Agriculture and Data Driven Decision Making
Precision agriculture tools generate large volumes of data about soils, crop performance, input use, and environmental conditions. Workers now need to operate complex machinery, move information across platforms, and use software to translate that information into day-to-day decisions on planting, fertility, irrigation, feeding, and animal health (Schimmelpfennig, 2016; Thompson et al., 2019; Balboa et. al, 2024). This raises demand for skills such as:
- Interpreting yield maps and variable‑rate prescriptions.
- Managing telematics from tractors, combines, and other equipment.
- Using GIS-based planning and mapping systems.
- Calibrating, repairing, and monitoring sensor networks.
- Integrating agronomic and animal‑science recommendations with digital decision aids.
Extension publications from UNL, Iowa State University, and other land‑grant institutions emphasize that successful precision ag use hinges on management capacity and data literacy, not just equipment ownership (Thompson et al., 2019; Schimmelpfennig, 2016; NFBI, 2018). Many Nebraska producers report that hiring employees comfortable with digital tools is now one of their greatest challenges (Strategic Discussions for Nebraska, 2023; Nebraska Community College Consortium, 2023).
Labor Sector Differences in Labor Effects
Row‑Crop Operations
Row‑crop operations, especially irrigated farms, have some of the highest precision ag adoption rates in the United States. Autosteer, telematics, yield monitors, and irrigation scheduling tools can reduce the need for seasonal labor, particularly for steering, in‑field monitoring, and pivot checks (Irmak, 2019; NF96‑305; Schimmelpfennig, 2016). At the same time, they increase demand for operators who can manage complex consoles, interpret data, and coordinate with agronomic advisors and service providers.
Cattle Ranches and Cow‑Calf Operations
Cow‑calf operations lag in technology adoption due to the nature of their operations and the cost of the technology relative to the gain in performance. Remote water monitoring, GPS-based grazing tools, virtual fencing, and RFID systems are reducing repetitive chores such as checking tanks or locating animals across large pastures (Boyle et al., 2022; Strategic Discussions for Nebraska, 2023). Even so, stockmanship, animal health knowledge, and range experience remain central, so technology tends to augment rather than replace labor in these systems (Brummer et al., 2021; USDA, 2022). It is likely, however, with the ever-growing expansion of information technology, management systems, and AI innovations, this will change in unforeseen ways.
Feedlots and Dairies
Feedlots and dairies often realize some of the most direct labor-saving benefits from automation. Automated feeding systems, hydraulic cattle‑handling facilities, and robotic milkers can significantly reduce manual tasks such as feeding, pushing up feed, or milking (Bewley, 2015; Bewley & Dolecheck, 2018). However, these technologies also create strong demand for employees who can operate and update software, recognize and diagnose technical malfunctions, and coordinate system maintenance with vendors and technicians (USDA, 2022; King et al., 2020).
Efficiency vs Labor Scarcity: What Drives Adoption?
National USDA analyses and producer surveys highlight labor scarcity as a major driver of technology adoption, especially for physically demanding tasks with irregular hours (USDA, 2022). UNL Extension outreach and producer panels similarly report that many Nebraska operations struggle to find and retain enough workers, particularly during peak seasons, and use technology to reduce dependence on hard-to-fill positions (Strategic Discussions for Nebraska, 2023; Balboa et al, 2024). For younger producers and multi‑generation farms, motivation also includes improving work-life balance, increasing efficiency, enhancing records for lenders and regulators, and reducing risk through improved decision accuracy (Sand, 2023; USDA NASS, 2023).
For smaller and medium-sized operations, access to cost-share programs, custom service providers, and strong dealer support often determines whether adoption is practical. Extension resources from UNL, Kansas State, and Iowa State document how cost‑sharing, shared ownership, and custom hiring can lower financial and managerial barriers to adopting advanced technologies (Thompson et al., 2019; Schimmelpfennig, 2016).
Economic Considerations for Producers
While agricultural technology can save labor and boost efficiency, it typically involves substantial upfront investment and ongoing costs. Producers must weigh equipment purchases and installation, subscription and software fees, training or hiring needs, and potential downtime from connectivity or mechanical issues (Dolecheck & Bewley, 2018; USDA, 2022). Research on precision agriculture by USDA ERS and land‑grant economists shows that returns depend heavily on management quality, farm or ranch scale, and the degree to which data are integrated into agronomic and livestock decisions (Schimmelpfennig, 2016; Thompson et al., 2019). This means investments that make sense for a large, well-staffed operation may not be profitable for a smaller farm without adequate technical support.
Long-Term Workforce Implications
As technology adoption expands, Nebraska’s agricultural workforce is undergoing structural change. Demand is rising for workers who can manage software, analyze production and financial data, and maintain complex mechanical electronic systems, and those technical skills often command higher wages in rural labor markets (USDA, 2022; Nebraska Community College Consortium, 2023). At the same time, demand for some types of low‑skill manual labor is declining in sectors where automation can perform routine or physically intensive tasks (Bewley, 2015; King et al., 2020).
In response, Extension programs, community colleges, and high school agriculture departments are expanding ag‑technology training and creating clearer pathways into roles such as precision agriculture technicians, livestock data managers, and integrated farm systems operators (Nebraska Community College Consortium, 2023; Strategic Discussions for Nebraska, 2023). UNL’s partnerships with USDA on precision agriculture infrastructure and digital tools are also likely to create new career paths in data management, remote sensing, and cyber-secure farm operations (UNL Research, 2024; USDA‑ARS & UNL, 2024).
Conclusion
Ag‑tech adoption is reshaping the labor landscape in Nebraska agriculture. Automation and digital tools are reducing the need for some types of manual labor while increasing demand for workers with technical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and digital literacy. Although adoption patterns differ across row‑crop farms, cow‑calf ranches, feedlots, and dairies, the overall trajectory points toward a more knowledge-intensive agricultural workforce that blends traditional production expertise with advanced technological competence.
Source: Shannon Sand – Associate Extension Educator (CropWatch – January 14, 2026)
Below Breed Average Bulls May be Better!
The use of genetic selection tools by cattle breeders has resulted in significant changes within the majority of major breeds over the last 30 years. With a few exceptions, the overwhelming genetic trend has been for more milk, higher weaning weight, and bigger mature weight. Without question, the use of Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) has enabled this change. While we have achieved our goals of more, have we achieved our goals of better? The late Dr. Bob Taylor from Colorado State University said it well, “Profitable cattle are usually productive, but productive cattle are not always profitable.”
Weaning Weight Questions
Four different benchmark data sets for commercial cow-calf producers from the states of Minnesota, North Dakota, Kansas, as well as Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma have shown little to no change in average weaning weights or calf weaning rates in terms of the percentage of calves weaned per cow exposed over the last 15 years. This has to prompt the question why? How can it be that there has been such significant genetic change in several breeds that should increase weaning weights, but records from several commercial cow-calf data sets would indicate that there has been relatively no change?
In 2014, Dr. David Lalman from Oklahoma State University made a presentation at the Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle meeting titled “Matching Cows to Forage Resources in a World of Mixed Messages.” In that presentation, Dr. Lalman made the case that the genetic potential of many cattle today is not supported by the forage resources available, so the animals never fully express their genetic potential. He presented data that shows the cost of maintaining larger cows with higher milk potential exceeds the value produced by small increases in calf weaning weights.
Bethany Johnston
Extension Educator
Phone: 402-336-2760
E-mail: bjohnston3@unl.edu
In 1988, Dr. Rick Bourdon, wrote a paper titled “Bovine Nirvana – From the Perspective of a Modeler and Purebred Breeder” where he presented the case that genetic selection should be toward the optimum for what a set of resources or environment could support. Dr. Bourdon stated, “To breed for optimum means to have a target insight beyond which you don’t want to go. If your goal is to maintain an optimum level for any trait, the evidence of your accomplishment is not visible change, but lack of it.”
Replacement Heifer Considerations
Cow-calf producers have EPDs and index tools to make genetic selection decisions related to traits that impact levels of productivity and longevity. Producers selecting sires from which to develop replacement heifers may want to evaluate where their cow herd is compared to what they believe optimum to be. Producers can work with beef cattle genetic specialists and breed association representatives to help them identify what EPD levels for milk, weaning weight and mature weight best meet their target. What a producer identifies as optimum in terms of milk production, weaning weight and mature size can vary significantly from one operation to another depending upon resources available and management. When optimum is identified, sires can be selected to produce daughters whose maintenance energy, longevity, level of milk production and mature weight will move the cow herd toward identified goals given available resources.
Identifying and selecting optimum genetics for milk production and mature weight is a genetics selection approach that may require a change in focus for many cow-calf producers. It may mean selecting sires at a bull sale that are at or below breed average to move the cow herd genetically toward a desired level for certain traits. Selecting a bull that is “below breed average” is a paradigm shift for many cow-calf producers. Identifying a window of optimum given a set of resources and then selecting cattle that hit the optimum target is the goal under this method of cattle breeding. Success in selecting for optimum means that for many producers they will be selecting sires whose EPDs for milk production and mature weight will decrease the average in their herd. Simultaneously, they should be using EPDs to select for traits that will maintain or improve fertility and longevity. Genetic selection and breeding programs should focus on increased profit, and in many cases this may mean selection for decreased mature weight and milk production to move future replacements for the cowherd towards optimum.
Source: Aaron Berger - Nebraska Extension Educator (UNL Beef – February 1, 2026)
Build a Championship Snack Board for Super Bowl Sunday
Super Bowl Sunday is arguably one of the biggest snack days of the year. Chips, dips, wings, sliders—you name it. While food is part of the fun, it’s easy to feel stuffed or sluggish before halftime even starts.
One way to enjoy game-day foods while keeping your choices balanced is to build a championship snack board—one that’s both fun and satisfying, and leaves you feeling good long after the final whistle.
When I build a snack board, I use a simple formula that takes the guesswork out of planning:
- 1 board – Any cutting board, serving tray, or large platter works.
- 2 ounces of cheese per person – Sliced or cubed, choose one or two varieties.
- 3 ounces of meat per person – Options like turkey, chicken, or ham work great.
- 4–5 accompaniments – Mix fruits, vegetables, nuts, or whole-grain crackers.
- Optional favorites – Small portions of chips, dips, or other treats, placed alongside healthier choices.
Start by placing cheese and meat on the board first, spacing the items to leave room for accompaniments. Next, fill in the open spaces with fruits, vegetables, nuts, or other sides.
Use small bowls or custard cups for dips and spreads to help manage portion sizes and maintain food safety. Favorite game-day foods can still be included. Serving them in smaller bowls alongside fruits, vegetables, and proteins keeps the board balanced and makes all options easy to grab.
Hydration is also important on game day. With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to drink water. Keep water or other non-alcoholic drinks nearby, especially if alcohol is being served.
The goal isn’t perfection. No single snack or day determines your health. A balanced snack board simply helps you enjoy the game, the food, and the company without feeling uncomfortable afterward.
This Super Bowl weekend, try building a snack board that supports both fun and well-being. Small, thoughtful choices can make a big difference.
News Release
“Calving College” Coming to Atkinson on Feb. 11
Following an overwhelmingly positive response last year, Nebraska Extension is pleased to bring back the “Calving College” series for 2026. This program offers practical, research-based guidance for farmers, ranchers, and veterinary professionals working to ensure a successful calving season.
Local ranchers can join two ways. The first way is to sign up for 3 webinars that include the hands-on workshop (cost is $80, sign up online). The second option is to only attend the hands-on workshop in Atkinson on Feb. 11 (cost is $20 at the door).
The hands-on, in-person workshop will be held at the West Holt FFA Ag Room, 1000 N. Main St in Atkinson, starting at 6 pm CT on February 11. Led by veterinarians, Dr. Becky Funk and Dr. Lindsay Waechter-Mead, participants can practice their skills using a life-sized cow and calf model. Participants can “see” inside the model cow, as the vets can place the calf with a leg back, backwards, etc, giving tips as participants pull the calf. This unique opportunity will provide practical experience in a supportive environment, ensuring participants leave with confidence and competence. If producers decide to only attend this workshop in Atkinson, walk-ins are welcome, and you will be charged $20 at the door.
Webinar participants will receive a notebook of Nebraska Extension resources and access to the recorded webinars to view at your convenience. A computer and internet connection will be needed to participate in the webinar series. The calving webinars will take place January 19, January 26, and February 2, 2026, from 7:30–8:45 p.m. CT, and will be complemented by hands-on, in-person workshops. For $80, you can attend the webinars and a hands-on workshop.
For more information about the Calving College webinar series and workshop, please contact Dr. Lindsay Waechter-Meat at 308-633-0158 or lindsay.waechter-mead@unl.edu, or sign up for the webinars online at https://go.unl.edu/calving.
News Release
Nebraska Extension Launches Six-Part Webinar Series on Controlling Invasive Weeds and Pests in Pastures
Nebraska Extension will offer a six-part webinar series in February 2026 designed to equip ranchers, landowners, and natural resource professionals with the latest research and management strategies for tackling invasive weeds, woody encroachment, and pasture pests.
“Controlling Invasive Weeds & Pests in Pastures” will be held over three weeks, with webinars taking place on Mondays and Thursdays - Feb. 9, 12, 16, 19, 23 and 26 - from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. MT (7:30 to 8:45 p.m. CT).
The series brings together Nebraska Extension specialists and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture to address several of the most pressing challenges in pasture and rangeland management.
Topics & Speakers include:
- Understanding regulations regarding pesticide application in pastures and noxious weed laws in Nebraska - Nebraska Department of Agriculture.
- Learn common invasive broadleaf weeds, herbicide options and the critical aspect of timing for control. Dr. Nevin Lawrence will discuss research results and how these apply to land managers.
- Woody encroachment on pastures is clear to see. Presenters Ben Beckman and Bethany Johnston will cover when control methods work best on cedars and troublesome shrubs.
- Invasive winter annuals like cheatgrass can wreck native range. Dr. Mitch Stephenson will discuss recent research in the Panhandle that is providing data on the effectiveness of herbicide options.
- What is that? New weeds to watch for will be the topic Gary Stone discusses early detection, and rapid response is key to control problem plants.
- Grasshopper populations can cause significant forage losses on pastures. Dave Boxler will discuss when treatment is warranted and restrictions for insecticide applications.
Registration is $75 per person and includes a mailed packet of key reference materials: the 2025 UNL Guide to Weed Management, Weeds of the Great Plains, and a booklet of NebGuides and Extension Circulars focused on invasive species. Webinars will be recorded.
Registration closes Jan. 26 to ensure participants receive their materials before the first webinar.
Those interested may register at https://go.unl.edu/PasturePests .
For more information, contact your local Nebraska Extension office or visit extension.unl.edu.
News Release
Workshops Aim to Boost Crop Yields by Improving Manure Management
LINCOLN, NE - Turning manure nutrients into improved crop yields while protecting water and soil quality will be the focus of seven Nebraska Extension workshops scheduled across the state in February and March.
“Our workshops focus on choosing the best possible field for manure application and therefore are useful for any crop farmer utilizing manure, even though they have traditionally been attended by livestock producers,” said Leslie Johnson, Nebraska Extension’s Animal Manure Management Extension Educator. “The workshops will still meet the educational requirements for permitted livestock operations laid out by the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment’s Title 130.”
The day-long sessions, held from 9:00am to 4:00pm local time, provide DWEE Land Application Training certification. Participants must attend the full program, which includes lunch, to earn certification. Sessions will cover regulatory updates and strategies for using manure effectively on cropland. While certification is available, anyone may attend, including crop farmers and smaller livestock operators seeking practical guidance for their operations.
Hands-on activities will help participants evaluate which fields are best suited for manure application. Each session will present a scenario in which attendees assess potential fields and determine whether manure use would be beneficial or if certain limitations make the site less desirable. Participants will then rank fields by priority based on factors such as nutrient value, transportation cost, soil health, water quality, neighbor proximity, and odor concerns. Regulations and record-keeping requirements for manure storage and application will also be covered.
Workshop dates and locations:
· Gothenburg – Feb. 9
· Ainsworth – Feb. 24
· Broken Bow – Feb. 25
· Bridgeport – Feb. 27
· Norfolk – March 4
· West Point – March 5
· Aurora – March 17
Because seating is limited and meals are provided, advance registration is required at least one week before each event. Additional sessions may be added if demand is high. Registration is available at water.unl.edu/lat.
The cost is $100 per operation requiring certification - typically larger livestock facilities - or $25 per person for attendees not seeking certification, including smaller livestock producers, crop farmers, NRCS staff, and landlords.
The workshops are sponsored by Nebraska Extension’s Animal Manure Management Team, which works to help livestock and crop producers maximize the agronomic and environmental benefits of manure. For more information, visit manure.unl.edu or contact Leslie Johnson at 402-584-3818 or ljohnson13@nebraska.edu.