Nebraska Extension in Morrill County

Local Interest

PANHANDLE PERSPECTIVES: Dry beans – perfect staple for any pantry

By Tammie Ostdiek Extension Educator – Food, Nutrition and Health

Check out food.unl.edu for more everyday food and fitness tips.

Dry beans are always a good companion to beef, pork, chicken, or fish, but they are also a great protein source on their own. And now more than ever dry beans are the perfect staple for any pantry.

Dry beans, the mature form of legumes, include great northern beans, pinto beans, black beans, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, black-eyed peas, split peas, and lentils.

Here are some of the reasons to serve beans every week.

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PANHANDLE PERSPECTIVES: Landowner attitudes about water quality in North Platte Valley

A large majority of people who responded to a recent survey rated water quality in the North Platte Valley of western Nebraska as good or excellent.

Still, most of the survey respondents also said they are somewhat or very concerned about water quality, although usually by a smaller majority.

There was usually a gap between agricultural and residential residents on rating water quality; the level of concern water quality; water quality’s effects on quality of life; and potential sources of water contaminants.

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Musk thistle – invasive plant of western Nebraska

Musk thistle is a non-native biennial forb but can behave occasionally as an annual. It reproduces/spreads from seed. Musk thistle is a prolific seed producer. Each thistle plant can produce 10,000 up to 120,000 seeds. Germination of seed and emergence of seedlings can occur anytime and are correlated with light and moisture. Optimum germination will take place in moist soil with 59° to 68°F soil temperature in the light and 68° to 86°F in the dark. Approximately one third of the seeds produced are viable. Viability of the seed varies. Water, wind, livestock, wildlife, vehicles and humans disperse seed.
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Seven tips for successfully baking as a family

Looking for a family activity that provides opportunities to share traditions, recipes and fun? Try baking together using these helpful tips from the Home Baking Association:
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PANHANDLE PERSPECTIVES: Will feeding silage to lactating cows give my calves scours?

Many cow-calf producers in Nebraska have become accustomed to using distillers grains as a source of both protein and energy to help meet the nutritional needs of lactating cows from calving until green grass is available. Due to the ongoing distillers shortage, many producers are considering including corn silage in the ration to help alleviate some of the energy shortfall in their hay resources. However, concerns have been expressed that silage in the diet will result in diarrhea or scours in their calves.
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Coping in changing times

By Dr. Saundra Frerichs, Nebraska Extension 4-H Youth Development

How can someone like me cope with something so unexpected? As I searched for this answer, I read recommendations for different groups of people: individuals living alone, families, children with special needs, empty nesters, and seniors. I found suggestions that can help all of us cope. 

Create a routine.

Consistency and structure may be calming during times of stress.  This is true whether we are creating a work and learning schedule for the whole family, or creating routines for ourselves when we are home alone.  Use routine to create reasonable expectations for yourself and others.

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Extension program connects Nebraskans with fresh produce

Extension program connects Nebraskans with fresh produce

August 14, 2024
The Growing Together Nebraska project is establishing community gardens in communities statewide. In 2023, the program delivered fresh produce to nearly 20,000 Nebraskans through 51 food pantries and emergency food distribution sites in 13 counties.

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Necessary Steps to take for Owners of Private Drinking Water Wells Impacted by Flooding

Necessary Steps to take for Owners of Private Drinking Water Wells Impacted by Flooding

August 2, 2024
Floodwater from the recent heavy rains, runoff, and even snowmelt may potentially carry multiple pollutants with it.

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Summer camp brings cattle, history, and STEM to campers

Summer camp brings cattle, history, and STEM to campers

August 2, 2024
A metal fence separated a few boys from a bunch of cattle as they looked at each other. Nodding their heads, the boys agreed it would be nice to take one of the cattle back home with them. The boys were part of the Summer Youth Empowerment Camp, which brought more than 30 children to visit the UNL Panhandle Feedlot and the UNL Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff on July 24.

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North Platte native donates tree to Tree Lane Road

North Platte native donates tree to Tree Lane Road

July 12, 2024
When visiting North Platte, the Golden Spike Tower or the Buffalo Bill State Historic Park might be at the top of the list. Karlie Gerlach | WCREEC Communications Specialist

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