Nebraska Extension Educator - Holt/Boyd Counties - LaDonna Werth
Nebraska Extension Educator - Holt/Boyd Counties - Amy Timmerman
Nebraska Extension Educator - Brown/Rock/Keya Paha Counties - Brittany Spieker
Nebraska Extension Educator - Holt/Boyd/Garfield/Loup/Wheeler Counties - Bethany Johnston
Nebraska 4-H Assistant - Holt/Boyd Counties - Debra Walnofer
May 18: Holt County 4-H Shooting Sports .22 Rifle Practice, 2:00-6:00pm, Holt County Fairgrounds, Chambers, NE
May 18: Holt County 4-H Shooting Sports BB Gun Practice, 2:00-5:00pm, Holt County Fairgrounds, Chambers, NE
May 18: Holt County 4-H Shooting Sports Muzzleloader Practice, 2:00-6:00pm, Holt County Fairgrounds, Chambers, NE
May 18: Holt County 4-H Shooting Sports Shotgun Practice, 2:00-6:00pm, Holt County Fairgrounds, Chambers, NE
May 18: Holt County 4-H Shooting Sports Archery Practice, 2:00-4:00pm, Holt County Fairgrounds, Chambers, NE
May 26: CLOSED: Holt and Boyd County Extension Offices for Memorial Day
May 28: DUE: Register for ServSafe Food Handlers Training, https://web.cvent.com/event/b20778cb-248b-410b-8421-a0bf92761e23/summary
May 28: Pressure Canner Dial Gauge Testing - 9:00-11:30am - Holt County Extension Office, O’Neill OR 1:30-4:00pm - Supervisors Room, Boyd County Courthouse, Butte
June 1: DUE: State 4-H Horse Expo Online Entries and Horse I.D.s submitted to extension office https://4h.unl.edu/statewide-events-opportunities/horse-program/horse-expo/show-entry/
June 3: Face-to-Face YQCA Training, 9am, Holt County Annex, O’Neill, NE, https://yqcaprogram.org/login/index.php
June 4: ServSafe Food Handlers Training, 8:30am-12:30pm, Holt County Annex Meeting Room
June 5: Workshop to Address the Spread of Cedar Trees and Control Options, 1:00–4:30pm, Holt County Courthouse Annex, O’Neill, NE
June 7: Holt County 4-H Shooting Sports Invitational, 8:00am, Holt County Fair Grounds, Chambers Nebraska
June 11: Tractor and Equipment Safety Training, AKRS Equipment Solutions, Inc, register at go.unmc.edu/tractor-safety-training
June 13: 4-H Rabbit Tattooing, 9:00am-4:30pm, Holt County Extension Office, O’Neill, NE
June 15: DUE: ALL Other Clover Kid, 4-H and FFA Animal ID Sheets, Holt County Extension Office, O’Neill, NE
June 15: DUE: Nebraska 4-H Enrollment Deadline
Tips To Help Children in a World That Is Critical of Body Size
- Create an environment where children learn to feel good about themselves.
- Help children recognize what they are good at and make opportunities for them to develop these skills and talents.
- Introduce children to different hobbies, sports, neighborhood and community activities, and the arts.
- Encourage children to pursue what they enjoy and what makes them feel good about themselves.
- Help children learn how to deal with teasing and bullying.
- Teach children strategies to avoid reacting to unkind words and actions.
- Role play with children and practice how they can use the strategies.
- Talk about calmly walking away from peer provocations.
- Help children develop positive I-messages: "I'm going to ignore these words because I know they are not true. I'm a good kid, I'm good at swimming, social studies, and writing letters to my cousins, and I have a best friend, Alicia, who likes me just the way I am."
LaDonna Werth
Extension Educator
Phone: 402-336-2760
E-mail: lwerth2@unl.edu
- Set and maintain limits on the amount of time that children spend watching television and movies, and playing video and computer games.
- Limit screen time, outside of homework, to 2 hours or less per day.
- Work together to select television shows and movies that everyone likes and that portray what is important to you.
- Make watching television and movies a special activity, not a routine activity.
- Keep the television turned off during meals and when no one is watching it.
- Maintain television-free bedrooms.
- Keep track of the visual media that children see.
- Limit the number of fashion, glamour, and muscle building magazines that come into your home.
- When children see images of female and male bodies that are unusually thin or overly muscular, talk about how media images are created with special techniques.
- Explain that different kinds of bodies have different strengths.
- Help children recognize that taking care of their bodies allows them to do what they like to do.
- Give children the experiences needed to enjoy healthy foods and beverages.
- Plant a garden and teach children about where fruits and vegetables really come from.
- Teach children the basics of food preparation.
- Involve children with menu planning.
- Avoid soda and sugary beverages.
- Munch on fruits and vegetables between meals instead of fatty, sugary, and salty snacks.
- Show children what a healthy lifestyle looks like.
- Purchase mostly healthy foods and beverages.
- Eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet.
- Plan regular meals and snacks.
- Enjoy physical activity and active play every day.
- Avoid dieting and withholding food for punishment.
- Eat when hungry and stop eating when full.
- Make mealtimes pleasant and relaxed.
Sources:
Sara Gable, Ph.D., state specialist & associate professor, Human Development & Family Studies, Human Environmental Sciences Extension, University of Missouri
Melinda Hemmelgarn, M.S., R.D., former nutritional sciences specialist, College of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Missouri
Vera Massey, nutrition and health education specialist, Central Missouri Region, University of Missouri Extension
Ten Ways to Cut Nitrogen Fertilizer Expenses
Nitrogen (N) fertilizer remains one of the biggest expenses for Nebraska farmers, especially for growing corn. In 2025, the situation has become more complex as some growers face a tightening supply of urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) due to delayed imports, increased exports and disruptions at production facilities. As a result, UAN availability is constrained for some farmers during the key side-dress window. In this challenging environment, it is more important than ever for farmers to use nitrogen wisely and make every pound count. Here are some strategies to help you stretch your nitrogen dollars and protect yield.
1. Stick to the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship
A cornerstone of effective nitrogen management is the 4Rs framework: applying fertilizer at the Right Rate, at the Right Time, using the Right Source, and in the Right Place. Each element plays a critical role in maximizing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and minimizing environmental losses - especially under supply and cost pressures.
Right Rate: To determine an accurate N rate for your field, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) provides a digital Nitrogen Calculator. This tool allows growers to reassess and adjust N needs in real time based on current conditions, optimizing both yield potential and cost savings.
Right Time: Nitrogen should be applied when the crop can use it most efficiently. A common strategy is to apply about 30% of the N at or before planting, then split the remainder into one to three applications between V6 and tasseling. This coincides with rapid
Amy Timmerman
Extension Educator
Phone: 402-336-2760
E-mail: atimmerman2@unl.edu
corn growth and peak N uptake, particularly between the V6 and V12 stages.
Right Source: With UAN in short supply, farmers may consider alternatives such as urea or anhydrous ammonia. Urea is readily available but must be incorporated into the soil shortly after application - ideally with 0.5-inch of rainfall or irrigation - to prevent volatilization losses. Anhydrous ammonia is effective and economical but requires specific equipment and adherence to safety protocols.Right Source: With UAN in short supply, farmers may consider alternatives such as urea or anhydrous ammonia. Urea is readily available but must be incorporated into the soil shortly after application - ideally with 0.5-inch of rainfall or irrigation - to prevent volatilization losses. Anhydrous ammonia is effective and economical but requires specific equipment and adherence to safety protocols.
Right Place: Regardless of the N source, applying nitrogen where roots can access it — via injection or incorporation - reduces the risk of loss and improves plant uptake. Aligning application with soil test data also prevents over-application and maximizes return on investment.
2. Use Precision Agriculture Tools
Precision agriculture offers powerful ways to use less N more efficiently. Soil and yield mapping help identify variability across fields, while crop canopy sensors can assess nitrogen demand in real-time. Variable rate technology (VRT), informed by imagery or sensor data, enables zone-specific application. These tools are especially valuable when N supply is limited, as they help prioritize nitrogen where it's needed most.
3. Split Nitrogen Applications Strategically
Split nitrogen applications remain one of the most effective strategies to reduce risk during times of supply uncertainty. Farmers can start with a modest base rate at pre-plant or early vegetative stages using available nitrogen sources such as anhydrous ammonia, urea or manure. The remaining nitrogen can then be applied in-season, ideally timed to match peak crop demand - typically between the V6 and V12 growth stages, when corn takes up the most nitrogen. If UAN is not available for side-dress, consider using ammonia or surface-applied urea with a stabilizer, based on your equipment setup and timing constraints.
4. Consider Cover Crops for N Availability
Cover crops planted during the previous winter, such as cereal rye or clover, can provide valuable benefits by reducing off-season nitrogen losses. These crops scavenge residual soil nitrogen, lowering the risk of nitrate leaching and improving soil health. As they decompose, they gradually release nitrogen back into the system, enhancing nutrient availability for the following crop. In years when synthetic nitrogen supplies are limited or costly, cover crops can help reduce reliance on in-season fertilizer by contributing organic nitrogen to support early crop growth.
5. Adopt Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizers (EEFs)
Enhanced efficiency fertilizers (EEFs) such as urease inhibitors, nitrification inhibitors and polymer-coated urea can help retain applied nitrogen in the soil and reduce losses to the atmosphere or groundwater. This can be particularly useful when switching from UAN to urea in surface applications. Although these products have a higher upfront cost, they can reduce the need for additional applications and improve NUE, especially during weather or supply uncertainties. Applying suboptimal N rates - 10 to 20% below UNL recommendations - along with EEFs provides a practical approach to maintain yields while improving efficiency and profitability.
6. Utilize Manure and Organic Amendments
Manure and organic amendments are valuable nitrogen sources, especially during synthetic fertilizer shortages. Manure can supply a portion - or even all - of the season’s nitrogen requirement when applied based on crop needs and tested for nutrient content. Coordinating manure applications with crop demand and soil nutrient levels can reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers while improving soil health. Find more in NebGuide G1335, “Determining Crop Available Nutrients from Manure”.
7. Test Your Soil, Crops and Irrigation Water
Soil and crop evaluation can help you know exactly how much nitrogen - among other nutrients - is available and, if needed, critical for making informed mid-season decisions. The pre-side-dress nitrate test (PSNT) can help determine whether additional nitrogen is needed. Remote sensing of crop canopy reflectance helps to quantify the need for in-season N. These diagnostic tools are especially important when fertilizer must be conserved or rationed due to supply issues. Testing N input from irrigation water can help save N fertilizer and other nutrients, such as sulfur. Combining the irrigation water test with the amount of irrigation will deliver the amount of N credit from irrigation.
8. Account for Residual Nitrogen and Soil Mineralization
Farmers should also consider the contributions of residual nitrogen and mineralization when calculating in-season needs. Residual nitrate from the previous crop or fall fertilizer applications can significantly reduce the need for additional N. Similarly, organic matter in the soil continues to mineralize nitrogen throughout the season, providing a background supply that should be accounted for before applying fertilizer.
9. Minimize Nitrogen Losses
Minimizing nitrogen loss is essential under any condition, especially when fertilizer is expensive or scarce. Incorporating fertilizers into the soil can reduce volatilization or runoff. Avoiding applications ahead of heavy rainfall reduces leaching. The use of nitrification inhibitors with ammonia or urea can slow the conversion of ammonium to nitrate, reducing the risk of N leaching.
10. Work with UNL Extension and Decision Tools
Finally, UNL offers a wide range of tools and expertise to support producers. Based on field-specific data, the UNL Nitrogen Calculator can help determine the economically optimal nitrogen rate (EONR). Local extension personnel for your county can assist with nitrogen planning, rate adjustments and source substitutions based on current conditions and product availability.
Takeaway for 2025
The current UAN shortage is tough, but it is also an opportunity to fine-tune your nitrogen management by using science-based nitrogen strategies. Producers can protect yields and reduce costs by using precision applications, soil testing, cover crops, EEFs and manure, even under supply pressure. A proactive, adaptive approach to nitrogen management will help Nebraska growers maintain profitability and sustainability during this challenging season. For more help, reach out to your local Nebraska Extension office or use the many decision tools available from UNL.
Source: Javed Iqbal - Extension Nutrient Management and Water Quality Specialist, Nicolás Cafaro La Menza – Cropping Systems Specialist, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Guillermo Balboa - Nutrient Management and Digital Agriculture, Richard Ferguson - Extension Soil Fertility Specialist, Carolina Córdova - Department of Agronomy and Horticulture Assistant Professor and Statewide Soil Health Specialist, Bijesh Maharjan - Extension Soil and Nutrient Management Specialist (CropWatch – May 8, 2025)
How Much Zinc Should Be in My Free Choice Mineral?
Zinc (Zn) is involved in nearly every biological process, including immune function, growth, and reproduction. The wide-ranging function of Zn makes it important for overall cowherd productivity, but along with copper, is one of the most observed trace mineral deficiencies. In this article, practical considerations for Zn nutrition will be discussed, including deficiency, forage Zn content, and meeting the cow’s Zn requirement.
Important considerations for Zn supplementation in the cowherd:
Cow/calf (30 ppm required in diet on DM basis)
- Target 2000-3000 ppm in 4 oz intake mineral
- Inclusion dependent on forage Zn content and level of insurance desired
- NE forages typically have inadequate Zn content to meet requirement
- Forage maturity may affect Zn availability for absorption
- Zinc is poorly stored, so constant access should be given to free choice mineral
Bethany Johnston
Extension Educator
Phone: 402-336-2760
E-mail: bjohnston3@unl.edu
Zinc and the Cowherd
Marginal zinc deficiency can cause nonspecific and difficult to detect issues such as reduced calf growth, poor reproductive outcomes, and suppressed immune function. The best way to ensure that marginal zinc deficiency does not affect cowherd performance is proper supplementation. In pasture and hay samples sent to a commercial lab by Nebraska by producers, 80% of samples were less than the required 30 ppm, and 50% of samples fell between 15 and 25 ppm. It is estimated only 50% of the forages’ Zn is available to the animal, making supplementation crucial. In a grazing scenario with fair to good quality forages, a loose mineral designed for 4 oz of daily intake should provide roughly 50% of the Zn requirement, equating to roughly 2000-3000 ppm.
Factors Affecting Zinc Supplementation
If cows are consuming poorer quality forages with greater maturity, the higher end of the range should be targeted, around 3000 ppm. In mid- to late-gestation when cows are on residue fields or dormant grasses, Zn supplementation is especially important. For the fetal calf, Zn status at birth is largely determined by Zn acquired through placental transfer. Once born, the calf will only acquire a small amount of Zn from the milk it consumes, so until the calf begins consuming enough loose mineral to meet its requirements, Zn stores obtained in gestation are its primary supply. Therefore, diligence in checking and maintaining adequate levels of free choice mineral should be practiced with the future calf in mind.
Beyond fetal development, consistent Zn supplementation is also critical due to cattle’s limited ability to store Zn. Because cattle regulate Zn absorption and excretion tightly, they do not store it efficiently. Liver Zn concentration is not particularly responsive to differences in Zn supplementation. Even when cattle receive different Zn supplementation levels, liver Zn concentrations may not vary significantly due to tight homeostatic regulation. In this, assessing Zn status of cattle is difficult, and reliable biomarkers have not yet been discovered in research.
Conclusion
While research in growing and finishing cattle indicates supplementing above the requirement may benefit lean tissue growth, the mature cow is not exhibiting the same extent of protein synthesis that is underscoring the benefit of additional Zn. Therefore, the current requirement of 30 ppm still represents the target for the cowherd. Future discussions will address Zn recommendations for feedlot cattle based on stressors, implants, and beta-agonists. Ultimately, ensuring adequate and consistent Zn supplementation is essential for maintaining optimal cowherd health, reproduction, and performance.
For a more comprehensive review of mineral and vitamin supplementation strategies for the cowherd, visit: Formulation Considerations for Mineral and Vitamin Supplements for Beef Cows.
Source: Brock Ortner, Nebraska Extension Livestock System Educator, Mary Drewnoski, Nebraska Extension Beef Systems Specialist (BeefWatch – May 1, 2025)
News Release
Keep Your Home-Canned Foods Safe
If you’re planning to preserve your garden harvest this year, now is the time to make sure your pressure canner is in top working order.
Nebraska Extension is hitting the road with its Pressure Canner Testing Roadshow, offering free dial-gauge pressure canner testing at several locations across north central Nebraska. Home canners are encouraged to stop by, meet Extension Educator Brittany Spieker, and ensure their equipment is safe to use.
“Pressure canners with dial gauges should be tested at least once a year,” said Spieker, who serves as the Food, Nutrition, and Health Extension Educator for the region. “Even what seems like a small inaccuracy in the gauge can lead to unsafe or poor-quality food. This quick test can protect your health and your hard work.”
TESTING SCHEDULE:
| Date | Time | Location | City |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, May 28 | 9:00-11:30am | Holt County Extension Office | O’Neill |
| 1:30-4:00pm | Supervisors Room, Boyd County Courthouse | Butte | |
| Thursday, May 29 | 8:30am-12:00pm | BKR Extension Office | Ainsworth |
| 1:00-4:30pm | BKR Extension Office | Ainsworth | |
| Friday, May 30 | 9:00am-12:00pm | Cherry County Extension Office | Valentine |
Canners may be dropped off in advance at the location where testing is scheduled or brought in during the listed hours.
During this quick test, Spieker will:
- Check the dial gauge using a professionally calibrated master gauge to ensure it reads accurately.
- Inspect the sealing ring for cracks, brittleness, or improper fit.
- Examine the vent pipe, air vent, and the overpressure plug to ensure they are clean and clear, ensuring proper function.
- Assess the overall condition of the lid and canner body for wear or damage.
Can’t make it to the roadshow? No problem - pressure canners can be tested any time of year. Just contact your local Extension Office to schedule an appointment ahead of time.
For more information about the Pressure Canner Testing Roadshow or to arrange a canner drop-off, call your local county Extension office.
Have questions about canning? Reach out to Brittany by calling (402-387-2213) or emailing (bspieker2@unl.edu).
NEWS RELEASE
WORKSHOP TO ADDRESS THE SPREAD OF CEDAR TREES AND CONTROL OPTIONS
Cedar trees are rapidly spreading across Nebraska’s grasslands, threatening valuable forage for grazing animals and habitat for wildlife. In some areas, grass production has dropped by as much as 75% over the past three decades due to cedar tree encroachment. The best time to control your cedar trees is now!
To help landowners and producers tackle this issue, a hands-on workshop will be held on Thursday, June 5, from 1:00 to 4:30pm CT at the Holt County Annex Building, located at 128 N 6th Street, O’Neill.
Gain insight from real-life examples of various cedar control projects, including before/after photos, cost of the projects, cost-share options, and how producers are maintaining cedar-free pastures to maximize grass. Understanding how cedar trees spread, and grow will help producers decide the best control options to use. Learn how to keep your prescribed burn contained to the unit - as slope, tree height, piles, weather, crew/equipment can be mitigated to ensure a safe and controlled burn. A member from the Prescribed Burn Association will share firsthand experiences and practical advice from their prescribed burns.
Walk-ins are welcome, but registrations are appreciated. Call the Holt County Extension Office at 402-336-2760 or email Bethany at mailto:bjohnston3@unl.edu.
Thanks to these partners: Nebraska Extension, Pheasant Forever, the Nature Conservancy, Sandhills Task Force, Nebraska Game & Parks, US Fish and Wildlife, and NRCS
