News

Drought conditions are challenging producers to be creative as they consider options for maintaining the cowherd through the summer, given limited pasture availability. Several research studies conducted at the University of Nebraskahaveshownthatcowscan be managed effectively utilizing a limit-fed ration.

Compost is often called garden gold, and for good reason. Adding compost to garden soil improves more than just plant growth. Compost increases organic matter in the soil, improves water-holding capacity in sandy soils, helps drainage in heavy clay soils, and provides valuable nutrients for plants. Best of all, composting is a great way to recycle kitchen and yard waste instead of sending it to the landfill.

Lincoln, NE~ May 22, 2026 — Have you wondered how virtual fencing might work on your operation, but want to see it in action before making a decision? A twoday bus tour on June 16–17 will give cattle producers the opportunity to evaluate virtual fencing systems in real-world settings.

Lincoln, NE ~ May 21, 2026 As drought conditions continue to affect much of Nebraska, beef producers are being forced to make difficult decisions about herd and forage management. To support producers navigating these challenges, Nebraska Extension will host a free webinar on Thursday, June 11, from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. MST; 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. CST.

322 N. Macomb 402-376-1400 M-F • 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m Available Daily Cards • Board Games • Pool • Men’s coffee at 9:30 a.m.

Happy birthday to Betty Sokol, who celebrated her 80th birthday on May 19. Cards can be sent to her at 30246 266th Avenue, Crookton NE 69212. Betty is a Lakeview treasure and still working at Spring Creek School. What an example! She was honored with a birthday supper by daughter Cindy, with family joining them, as well as Robin McMurtrey and Sara Tinant.

• The overall RMI dropped below growth neutral for the fourth straight month. • More than half, or 56.6%, of bank CEOs reported that weak grain prices were the top factor constraining farming financial conditions in their area.

For decades, the beating heart of the Nebraska Sandhills could be found on the lower floor of a split-level home in Hyannis, where Sharon M. Wheelock tirelessly pieced together the Grant County News. With the recent passing of Wheelock on May 20, 2026, the community mourns not only the loss of a devoted mother and friend but also the loss of a fierce champion for rural journalism who became the defining voice of “Sandhills Cattle Country.”

Times were different, laws were written for and by white men, but the 1862 Homestead Act was an oddity. In the middle of a grueling Civil War where the North had just lost several significant battles.

Lincoln, NE, May 14, 2026 - May is National Historic Preservation Month in Nebraska. “It is important to celebrate the role of history in our lives, especially this year during the celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Governor Jim Pillen as he signed a proclamation declaring National Preservation Month in Nebraska.