&nbsp;Lincoln, Neb. —&nbsp;The University of Nebraska has announced two new leadership appointments at the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis.Kelly Bruns, current director of the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center in North Platte, has been named interim dean of NCTA and Interim director of partnership engagement in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Joining him in leadership is Jennifer McConville, who has been reappointed as NCTA associate dean of academic innovation, learner success, and career pathways. 

McConville will also hold an interim courtesy appointment in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where she will work to leverage partnership opportunities between NCTA and CASNR.“These appointments represent a key step in realizing a shared vision for agricultural workforce education in Nebraska,” said Mike Boehm, University of Nebraska vice president and Harlan Vice Chancellor for UNL’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “Dr. Bruns is a trusted leader with a deep understanding of Nebraska’s ag ecosystem. Dr. McConville brings vision, experience, and energy to expanding innovative, student-centered experiential learning. 

Together, and in greater partnership with CASNR and Nebraska’s Community Colleges, they are well-positioned to grow NCTA and support student success in ways that advance Nebraska’s ag workforce needs.”As interim dean, Bruns will lead efforts to enhance academic programs, build strong partnerships, and recruit students to meet the evolving needs of Nebraska’s agricultural workforce. He will collaborate with high schools, alumni, communities, and industry stakeholders to ensure that the education offered at NCTA reflects the latest developments in agriculture and natural resources.“It is an honor to serve NCTA and Nebraska’s agricultural industry in this role,” said Bruns. “In Nebraska, where one in four jobs is tied to agriculture, preparing students for careers in this sector is both a responsibility and a privilege.”Bruns will also guide NCTA through a period of transition and innovation as it aligns more closely with CASNR. 

This alignment will expand access to IANR’s statewide living laboratory, create dual-enrollment opportunities, and open new doors for students at both institutions to benefit from education pathway programs that leverage the strengths of each institution.In her expanded role, McConville will work closely with CASNR leadership to ensure that NCTA students can access CASNR coursework and experiences—and vice versa. This collaboration will empower students from both institutions to develop the technical, academic, and industry-ready skills needed to succeed in agriculture’s future.“This is an exciting moment for NCTA and CASNR,” said McConville. “By building stronger academic bridges and offering hands-on learning opportunities, we’re creating a more accessible and relevant educational experience for students across the state. I’m proud to help lead that effort.”

The leadership transition comes as Dean Larry Gossen prepares to retire in June 2025. Since 2020, Gossen has led NCTA through a period campus revitalization and commitment to workforce development. Under his leadership, the college completed major infrastructure repairs, deepened community ties, and expanded continuing education—highlighted by the launch of a USDA-funded meat processing curriculum and a $6 million gift to renovate NCTA’s historic barn into a student success and activity center.Bruns has served as director of WCREEC since 2016 and is nationally recognized for his expertise in beef cattle management. He taught for 20 years at the college level before joining UNL in 2014. 

Interim leadership for WCREEC will be announced soon.These leadership appointments support a broader strategic realignment between NCTA and CASNR announced in late 2024. The partnership aims to create seamless academic pathways and strengthen Nebraska’s leadership in technical, digital, and precision agriculture.“Agriculture is the lifeblood of Nebraska,” said NU President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “This realignment ensures we continue delivering cutting-edge, student-focused education that equips tomorrow’s workforce with the tools to lead and thrive in our state’s vital ag industry.”A national search for NCTA’s next permanent dean will begin later in 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746702198110.png" alt=" Kelly Bruns and Jennifer McConville will lead the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture through a new chapter of growth and collaboration. Bruns has been named interim dean of NCTA and interim director of partnership engagement in IANR. McConville has been reappointed as associate dean and will also serve in a new interim role with UNL’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources." />
 <figcaption> Kelly Bruns and Jennifer McConville will lead the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture through a new chapter of growth and collaboration. Bruns has been named interim dean of NCTA and interim director of partnership engagement in IANR. McConville has been reappointed as associate dean and will also serve in a new interim role with UNL’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Lincoln, Neb. —&nbsp;The University of Nebraska has announced two new leadership appointments at the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis.Kelly Bruns, current director of the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center in North Platte, has been named interim dean of NCTA and Interim director of partnership engagement in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Joining him in leadership is Jennifer McConville, who has been reappointed as NCTA associate dean of academic innovation, learner success, and career pathways. McConville will also hold an interim courtesy appointment in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where she will work to leverage partnership opportunities between NCTA and CASNR.“These appointments represent a key step in realizing a shared vision for agricultural workforce education in Nebraska,” said Mike Boehm, University of Nebraska vice president and Harlan Vice Chancellor for UNL’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “Dr. Bruns is a trusted leader with a deep understanding of Nebraska’s ag ecosystem. Dr. McConville brings vision, experience, and energy to expanding innovative, student-centered experiential learning. Together, and in greater partnership with CASNR and Nebraska’s Community Colleges, they are well-positioned to grow NCTA and support student success in ways that advance Nebraska’s ag workforce needs.”As interim dean, Bruns will lead efforts to enhance academic programs, build strong partnerships, and recruit students to meet the evolving needs of Nebraska’s agricultural workforce. He will collaborate with high schools, alumni, communities, and industry stakeholders to ensure that the education offered at NCTA reflects the latest developments in agriculture and natural resources.“It is an honor to serve NCTA and Nebraska’s agricultural industry in this role,” said Bruns. “In Nebraska, where one in four jobs is tied to agriculture, preparing students for careers in this sector is both a responsibility and a privilege.”Bruns will also guide NCTA through a period of transition and innovation as it aligns more closely with CASNR. This alignment will expand access to IANR’s statewide living laboratory, create dual-enrollment opportunities, and open new doors for students at both institutions to benefit from education pathway programs that leverage the strengths of each institution.In her expanded role, McConville will work closely with CASNR leadership to ensure that NCTA students can access CASNR coursework and experiences—and vice versa. This collaboration will empower students from both institutions to develop the technical, academic, and industry-ready skills needed to succeed in agriculture’s future.“This is an exciting moment for NCTA and CASNR,” said McConville. “By building stronger academic bridges and offering hands-on learning opportunities, we’re creating a more accessible and relevant educational experience for students across the state. I’m proud to help lead that effort.”The leadership transition comes as Dean Larry Gossen prepares to retire in June 2025. Since 2020, Gossen has led NCTA through a period campus revitalization and commitment to workforce development. Under his leadership, the college completed major infrastructure repairs, deepened community ties, and expanded continuing education—highlighted by the launch of a USDA-funded meat processing curriculum and a $6 million gift to renovate NCTA’s historic barn into a student success and activity center.Bruns has served as director of WCREEC since 2016 and is nationally recognized for his expertise in beef cattle management. He taught for 20 years at the college level before joining UNL in 2014. Interim leadership for WCREEC will be announced soon.These leadership appointments support a broader strategic realignment between NCTA and CASNR announced in late 2024. The partnership aims to create seamless academic pathways and strengthen Nebraska’s leadership in technical, digital, and precision agriculture.“Agriculture is the lifeblood of Nebraska,” said NU President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “This realignment ensures we continue delivering cutting-edge, student-focused education that equips tomorrow’s workforce with the tools to lead and thrive in our state’s vital ag industry.”A national search for NCTA’s next permanent dean will begin later in 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kelly Bruns Named Interim Dean, Jennifer McConville Reappointed Associate Dean at NCTA

LINCOLN, Neb. – Despite a $2 billion decline from 2022, Nebraska’s agricultural exports totaled $7.9 billion in 2023, marking the third-highest export year on record. That’s according to a Nebraska Farm Bureau’s annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nefb.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/NEAgriculture-InternationalTrade_2023_Proof2.pdf">Agriculture and International Trade Report.</a>

The report, prepared by economist Jay Rempe of Rolling Prairie Economics, provides a comprehensive look at how global markets are driving and challenging the economic future of&nbsp;Nebraska’s farm and ranch families. According to the report, trade remains a foundational pillar of&nbsp;Nebraska’s agriculture-driven economy.

“Our state ranks fifth in the nation for agricultural exports, and we lead the country in beef exports. Yet, the story behind the numbers is about the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;farm families whose livelihoods depend on access to global markets,” said Mark McHargue, president of&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Farm Bureau. “When trade thrives,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;thrives. That’s why it’s critical that we push for new trade agreements and work to eliminate barriers that unfairly limit our access to overseas markets.”

The report, released annually since 2017, examines the most recent data provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), sourced from the year 2023 and includes county-level estimates showing the importance of trade at the grassroots level. Cuming and Platte Counties led the state in total agricultural export value, each exceeding $200 million, while Phelps County topped the list for per-farm export value at an estimated $474,832. Counties like Kearney, Fillmore, and Boone also ranked among the highest per-farm export values, a reflection of the size, productivity, and diversity of their farming operations.

“Trade translates directly to income for farm and ranch families,” said Rempe. “Whether it’s corn from Dawson County, soybeans from York County, or beef from the Sandhills, the ability to sell these products overseas can make the difference between a good year and a tough one for many&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;producers.”

According to the report, soybeans, corn, and beef remained solidly entrenched as&nbsp;Nebraska’s top agricultural exports, accounting for nearly two-thirds of total exports.&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;ranked first in the nation for beef exports at $1.59 billion. The state ranked third in corn exports and seventh in soybeans. Exports of pork and soybean meal were among the few that increased in value, rising 3% and 12%, respectively.

While commodity prices and increased global competition from countries like Brazil contributed to export declines,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;producers remain competitive and resilient. However, trade uncertainty and tariffs continue to pose significant challenges.

“Now is the time for policymakers to take action,” said McHargue. “We must actively seek new trade agreements, explore untapped markets, and remove regulatory and other trade obstacles that unfairly impact&nbsp;Nebraska’s agricultural sector. Expanding trade is not just smart economics, it’s critical for our state’s future.”

LINCOLN, Neb. – Despite a $2 billion decline from 2022, Nebraska’s agricultural exports totaled $7.9 billion in 2023, marking the third-highest export year on record. That’s according to a Nebraska Farm Bureau’s annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nefb.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/NEAgriculture-InternationalTrade_2023_Proof2.pdf">Agriculture and International Trade Report.</a>The report, prepared by economist Jay Rempe of Rolling Prairie Economics, provides a comprehensive look at how global markets are driving and challenging the economic future of&nbsp;Nebraska’s farm and ranch families. According to the report, trade remains a foundational pillar of&nbsp;Nebraska’s agriculture-driven economy.“Our state ranks fifth in the nation for agricultural exports, and we lead the country in beef exports. Yet, the story behind the numbers is about the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;farm families whose livelihoods depend on access to global markets,” said Mark McHargue, president of&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Farm Bureau. “When trade thrives,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;thrives. That’s why it’s critical that we push for new trade agreements and work to eliminate barriers that unfairly limit our access to overseas markets.”The report, released annually since 2017, examines the most recent data provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), sourced from the year 2023 and includes county-level estimates showing the importance of trade at the grassroots level. Cuming and Platte Counties led the state in total agricultural export value, each exceeding $200 million, while Phelps County topped the list for per-farm export value at an estimated $474,832. Counties like Kearney, Fillmore, and Boone also ranked among the highest per-farm export values, a reflection of the size, productivity, and diversity of their farming operations.“Trade translates directly to income for farm and ranch families,” said Rempe. “Whether it’s corn from Dawson County, soybeans from York County, or beef from the Sandhills, the ability to sell these products overseas can make the difference between a good year and a tough one for many&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;producers.”According to the report, soybeans, corn, and beef remained solidly entrenched as&nbsp;Nebraska’s top agricultural exports, accounting for nearly two-thirds of total exports.&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;ranked first in the nation for beef exports at $1.59 billion. The state ranked third in corn exports and seventh in soybeans. Exports of pork and soybean meal were among the few that increased in value, rising 3% and 12%, respectively.While commodity prices and increased global competition from countries like Brazil contributed to export declines,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;producers remain competitive and resilient. However, trade uncertainty and tariffs continue to pose significant challenges.“Now is the time for policymakers to take action,” said McHargue. “We must actively seek new trade agreements, explore untapped markets, and remove regulatory and other trade obstacles that unfairly impact&nbsp;Nebraska’s agricultural sector. Expanding trade is not just smart economics, it’s critical for our state’s future.”

Nebraska Farm Bureau Report Reveals $7.9 Billion Impact of Agricultural Trade on State’s Economy

Columbus, Neb. –&nbsp;Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants to remind large equipment and drone operators to look up and look out for powerlines.

When a large piece of equipment with tall or large attachments gets too close or touches a power line, electricity can arc from the line to the equipment. This can leave the equipment damaged and result in the operator experiencing serious or even fatal injuries.

“Spring planting season is a busy time for large equipment use, and we continue to emphasize the importance of being aware of power lines when operating ag equipment,” says NPPD Operations Program Manager Trevor Roth. “We also want to remind non-ag workers to look up and look out for power lines. Operators using large excavation equipment or any equipment with tall hoists or booms should ensure they have the proper clearance from power lines.”

If a vehicle or piece of equipment is in contact with a power line, call 911 or your local power provider and remain inside the vehicle until help can arrive and de-energize the line. When a power line touches a vehicle, it can electrify the vehicle and ground in the surrounding area. If a fire forces you to exit the vehicle, jump away, land on two feet, and shuffle as far away from the area as possible.

“In addition to large equipment, we want to encourage drone operators to be attentive to power lines. Drones are being implemented in many different industries, including for spraying crops. If operators aren’t aware of power lines, they could damage both their equipment and the line,” added Roth.

NPPD encourages farmers to review the following safety precautions before entering the fields to begin harvest operations. For more safety information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety">NPPD.com</a>.

<h2></h2>Columbus, Neb. –&nbsp;Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants to remind large equipment and drone operators to look up and look out for powerlines.When a large piece of equipment with tall or large attachments gets too close or touches a power line, electricity can arc from the line to the equipment. This can leave the equipment damaged and result in the operator experiencing serious or even fatal injuries.“Spring planting season is a busy time for large equipment use, and we continue to emphasize the importance of being aware of power lines when operating ag equipment,” says NPPD Operations Program Manager Trevor Roth. “We also want to remind non-ag workers to look up and look out for power lines. Operators using large excavation equipment or any equipment with tall hoists or booms should ensure they have the proper clearance from power lines.”If a vehicle or piece of equipment is in contact with a power line, call 911 or your local power provider and remain inside the vehicle until help can arrive and de-energize the line. When a power line touches a vehicle, it can electrify the vehicle and ground in the surrounding area. If a fire forces you to exit the vehicle, jump away, land on two feet, and shuffle as far away from the area as possible.“In addition to large equipment, we want to encourage drone operators to be attentive to power lines. Drones are being implemented in many different industries, including for spraying crops. If operators aren’t aware of power lines, they could damage both their equipment and the line,” added Roth.NPPD encourages farmers to review the following safety precautions before entering the fields to begin harvest operations. For more safety information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety">NPPD.com</a>.<ul>
 <li>Review all work activities and practices around powerlines daily and remind all workers to take precautions.</li><li>Know the location of power lines, and when setting up the equipment, be at least 20 feet away from them. Contact your local public power provider if this distance cannot be achieved.</li><li>Use caution when raising booms, arms, augers or the bed of a grain truck or wagon. It can be difficult to estimate distance, and sometimes a powerline is closer than it looks. For large equipment, use a spotter to ensure the equipment stays a safe distance from the line.</li><li>Always adjust portable augers or elevators to their lowest possible level – under 14 feet – before transporting them. Variables like wind, uneven ground or shifting weight can cause unexpected results.</li>
 </ul>

Look up, look out for power lines when operating equipment

LINCOLN, NEB. – Despite a $2 billion decline from 2022, Nebraska’s agricultural exports totaled $7.9 billion in 2023, marking the third-highest export year on record. That’s according to a Nebraska Farm Bureau’s annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nefb.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/NEAgriculture-InternationalTrade_2023_Proof2.pdf" target="_blank">Agriculture and International Trade Report</a>&nbsp;released today.

The report, prepared by economist Jay Rempe of Rolling Prairie Economics, provides a comprehensive look at how global markets are driving and challenging the economic future of Nebraska’s farm and ranch families. According to the report, trade remains a foundational pillar of Nebraska’s agriculture-driven economy.

“Our state ranks fifth in the nation for agricultural exports, and we lead the country in beef exports. Yet, the story behind the numbers is about the Nebraska farm families whose livelihoods depend on access to global markets,” said Mark McHargue, president of Nebraska Farm Bureau. “When trade thrives, Nebraska thrives. That’s why it’s critical that we push for new trade agreements and work to eliminate barriers that unfairly limit our access to overseas markets.”

“Trade translates directly to income for farm and ranch families,” said Rempe. “Whether it's corn from Dawson County, soybeans from York County, or beef from the Sandhills, the ability to sell these products overseas can make the difference between a good year and a tough one for many Nebraska producers.”

According to the report, soybeans, corn, and beef remained solidly entrenched as Nebraska’s top agricultural exports, accounting for nearly two-thirds of total exports. Nebraska ranked first in the nation for beef exports at $1.59 billion. The state ranked third in corn exports and seventh in soybeans. Exports of pork and soybean meal were among the few that increased in value, rising 3% and 12%, respectively.

While commodity prices and increased global competition from countries like Brazil contributed to export declines, Nebraska producers remain competitive and resilient. However, trade uncertainty and tariffs continue to pose significant challenges.

LINCOLN, NEB. – Despite a $2 billion decline from 2022, Nebraska’s agricultural exports totaled $7.9 billion in 2023, marking the third-highest export year on record. That’s according to a Nebraska Farm Bureau’s annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nefb.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/NEAgriculture-InternationalTrade_2023_Proof2.pdf" target="_blank">Agriculture and International Trade Report</a>&nbsp;released today.The report, prepared by economist Jay Rempe of Rolling Prairie Economics, provides a comprehensive look at how global markets are driving and challenging the economic future of Nebraska’s farm and ranch families. According to the report, trade remains a foundational pillar of Nebraska’s agriculture-driven economy.“Our state ranks fifth in the nation for agricultural exports, and we lead the country in beef exports. Yet, the story behind the numbers is about the Nebraska farm families whose livelihoods depend on access to global markets,” said Mark McHargue, president of Nebraska Farm Bureau. “When trade thrives, Nebraska thrives. That’s why it’s critical that we push for new trade agreements and work to eliminate barriers that unfairly limit our access to overseas markets.”The report, released annually since 2017, examines the most recent data provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), sourced from the year 2023 and includes county-level estimates showing the importance of trade at the grassroots level. Cuming and Platte Counties led the state in total agricultural export value, each exceeding $200 million, while Phelps County topped the list for per-farm export value at an estimated $474,832. Counties like Kearney, Fillmore, and Boone also ranked among the highest per-farm export values, a reflection of the size, productivity, and diversity of their farming operations.“Trade translates directly to income for farm and ranch families,” said Rempe. “Whether it's corn from Dawson County, soybeans from York County, or beef from the Sandhills, the ability to sell these products overseas can make the difference between a good year and a tough one for many Nebraska producers.”According to the report, soybeans, corn, and beef remained solidly entrenched as Nebraska’s top agricultural exports, accounting for nearly two-thirds of total exports. Nebraska ranked first in the nation for beef exports at $1.59 billion. The state ranked third in corn exports and seventh in soybeans. Exports of pork and soybean meal were among the few that increased in value, rising 3% and 12%, respectively.While commodity prices and increased global competition from countries like Brazil contributed to export declines, Nebraska producers remain competitive and resilient. However, trade uncertainty and tariffs continue to pose significant challenges.

KEARNEY, Neb. – The&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Passport is back and better than ever for its 5th year! Starting May 1, this fan-favorite program from the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Council returns with new features, more stops, and even more delicious reasons to hit the road. The 2025 Beef Passport, available now at&nbsp;<a href="https://nebeef.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=8be6a9c5e0fca79ef5361f44b&amp;id=da9528e0b4&amp;e=4b2fbf0171" target="_blank">www.GoodLifeGreatSteaks.org</a>, includes nearly 60 locations across the state – from small-town cafés and sizzling steakhouses to independent meat processors, and butcher shops.

“We’re excited to celebrate the fifth year of the Beef Passport,” said Adam Wegner, director of marketing for the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Council. “Every year, the program grows – both in popularity and in the diversity of participating locations. Since the initial launch of the program in 2021, there have been over 10,000 beef meals enjoyed by passport users from over 600 communities across the state.”

Participants can access the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Passport for free on their mobile device or print a paper version directly from the website. New in 2025, collecting check-ins is now as easy as scanning a QR code when visiting a participating location creating a simpler, streamlined user experience.

With each check-in, passport users earn points that can be redeemed for prizes through the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Council. Every visit also enters participants into the grand prize drawing for one of two fresh beef bundles provided by the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Council and the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Association of Meat Processors (NAMP).

“Launching our fifth year of the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Passport is really special,” said Wegner. “It has become more than just a fun summer activity – it’s something people look forward to each year. Folks tell us they love discovering new places they wouldn’t have otherwise visited, and it’s a great reminder of just how strong and vibrant&nbsp;Nebraska’s beef industry really is.”

The 2025&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Passport runs from May 1 through September 30.

Western Nebraska Restaurants participating include:

KEARNEY, Neb. – The&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Passport is back and better than ever for its 5th year! Starting May 1, this fan-favorite program from the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Council returns with new features, more stops, and even more delicious reasons to hit the road. The 2025 Beef Passport, available now at&nbsp;<a href="https://nebeef.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=8be6a9c5e0fca79ef5361f44b&amp;id=da9528e0b4&amp;e=4b2fbf0171" target="_blank">www.GoodLifeGreatSteaks.org</a>, includes nearly 60 locations across the state – from small-town cafés and sizzling steakhouses to independent meat processors, and butcher shops.“We’re excited to celebrate the fifth year of the Beef Passport,” said Adam Wegner, director of marketing for the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Council. “Every year, the program grows – both in popularity and in the diversity of participating locations. Since the initial launch of the program in 2021, there have been over 10,000 beef meals enjoyed by passport users from over 600 communities across the state.”Participants can access the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Passport for free on their mobile device or print a paper version directly from the website. New in 2025, collecting check-ins is now as easy as scanning a QR code when visiting a participating location creating a simpler, streamlined user experience.With each check-in, passport users earn points that can be redeemed for prizes through the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Council. Every visit also enters participants into the grand prize drawing for one of two fresh beef bundles provided by the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Council and the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Association of Meat Processors (NAMP).“Launching our fifth year of the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Passport is really special,” said Wegner. “It has become more than just a fun summer activity – it’s something people look forward to each year. Folks tell us they love discovering new places they wouldn’t have otherwise visited, and it’s a great reminder of just how strong and vibrant&nbsp;Nebraska’s beef industry really is.”The 2025&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Beef Passport runs from May 1 through September 30.Western Nebraska Restaurants participating include:Highway 2 Depot – MullenTaste of Texas – McCookThree 21 Tavern – LexingtonFront Street Steakhouse – OgallalaJulie’s Hay Town Grill – Hay SpringsPapa Moon – ScottsbluffCapones – North PlatteMeat Shops:Main Street Meats – OgallalaMarky’s Meat Market – Gering

Nebraska Beef Passport Celebrates 5-Year Milestone With New Stops and Added Features

North Platte, Neb. — Backyard poultry producers and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of flock health, nutrition, housing, and economics during a two-day seminar hosted by Nebraska Extension.

The seminar will be held May 2 in Kearney at the Buffalo County Extension Office, 1400 E. 34th Street, and May 3 in North Platte at the West Central Research, Extension, and Education Center, 402 West State Farm Road. Both events run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the North Platte seminar will also be available online via webinar.

PODCAST with Extension Educator Randy Saner (Sponsored by North Platte Kubota)

The seminar will feature presentations from poultry and agricultural experts:

The goal of the seminar is to equip attendees with knowledge and tools to improve disease management and sustainable practices for backyard poultry operations.

The $25 registration fee includes a meal for in-person attendees and access for webinar participants.

North Platte, Neb. — Backyard poultry producers and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of flock health, nutrition, housing, and economics during a two-day seminar hosted by Nebraska Extension.The seminar will be held May 2 in Kearney at the Buffalo County Extension Office, 1400 E. 34th Street, and May 3 in North Platte at the West Central Research, Extension, and Education Center, 402 West State Farm Road. Both events run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the North Platte seminar will also be available online via webinar.PODCAST with Extension Educator Randy Saner (Sponsored by North Platte Kubota)<div><iframe title="Backyard Poultry Seminar Set for May 3 in North Platte" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=aipyf-1883191-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The seminar will feature presentations from poultry and agricultural experts:<ul>
 <li>Common Poultry Diseases/Keeping Poultry Healthy – Dr. Don Reynolds, Professor and Extension Poultry Specialist
</li><li>Nutrition Management/Grading &amp; Selling Eggs – Shelia Purdum, Extension Poultry Specialist
</li><li>Housing/Feeding Your Backyard Flock – Brett Kreifels, Urban Program Coordinator and 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator
</li><li>Budgeting &amp; Pricing: The Economics of Egg Production – Shannon Sand, Agricultural Economics Extension Educator
</li><li>Maintaining Backyard Flock/Mitigating Disease – Barb Batie, poultry producer from Lexington, Neb.
</li>
 </ul>The goal of the seminar is to equip attendees with knowledge and tools to improve disease management and sustainable practices for backyard poultry operations.Registration is required by April 28.<ul>
 <li>To attend the Kearney seminar, call 308-236-1235.
</li><li>To attend the North Platte seminar or webinar, call the Lincoln Logan McPherson Extension Office at 308-532-2683.
</li>
 </ul>The $25 registration fee includes a meal for in-person attendees and access for webinar participants.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744899803857.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Backyard Poultry Seminar Set for May 3 in North Platte (PODCAST)

As spring temperatures rise across Nebraska, now’s the time to plan your first alfalfa cutting. Getting that first cut right is more important than many realize—it sets the pace for the entire season.

Waiting too long to harvest can lead to lower forage quality and delayed regrowth. That pushes your second cutting later into the summer, when heat and drought stress can limit yield. It can also throw off your third or even fourth cuttings, shortening the season and reducing total tons per acre.

On the flip side, cutting too early—before late bud stage—can hurt stand vigor and root reserves, especially in younger fields.

A good rule of thumb? Aim for 750 growing degree days from green-up and target the late bud to early bloom stage. Depending on the quality you are shooting for, this typically falls between late-May and early-June. Check field conditions closely, including weevil activity and stand health, and plan around weather windows to avoid rain damage.

Poor timing in May can cost you in July and August. Start planning now. Sharpen blades, check and service equipment, and communicate with custom harvesters early. A timely first cut sets the tone for the rest of your hay season.

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 </figure>By&nbsp;Ben BeckmanAs spring temperatures rise across Nebraska, now’s the time to plan your first alfalfa cutting. Getting that first cut right is more important than many realize—it sets the pace for the entire season.Waiting too long to harvest can lead to lower forage quality and delayed regrowth. That pushes your second cutting later into the summer, when heat and drought stress can limit yield. It can also throw off your third or even fourth cuttings, shortening the season and reducing total tons per acre.On the flip side, cutting too early—before late bud stage—can hurt stand vigor and root reserves, especially in younger fields.A good rule of thumb? Aim for 750 growing degree days from green-up and target the late bud to early bloom stage. Depending on the quality you are shooting for, this typically falls between late-May and early-June. Check field conditions closely, including weevil activity and stand health, and plan around weather windows to avoid rain damage.Poor timing in May can cost you in July and August. Start planning now. Sharpen blades, check and service equipment, and communicate with custom harvesters early. A timely first cut sets the tone for the rest of your hay season.

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