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Washington, D.C., July 22, 2026 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is taking steps to speed up progress in plant science by calling on universities and stakeholders to help build new AI tools that can translate the huge amount of germplasm data the agency collects.

Yucca, also called small soapweed, is a common weed in western and central Nebraska rangelands. They are especially noticeable when flowering in June. In some areas, high plant density can significantly reduce grass production; so, yucca may need to be managed to reclaim grazing lands.

When it gets hot, alfalfa plants grow more slowly and moisture stress becomes common, even in moist soil. Maintaining high-quality hay is very difficult due to the high temperatures, especially when the heat does not subside at night. High night-time temperatures cause rapid respiration rates in alfalfa, burning off nutrients that plants accumulated during the day. This often produces alfalfa hay with fine stems that contain high protein, more fiber and lower feed value than expected.

Washington, D.C., July 28, 2026 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is putting farmers first and supporting government accountability by providing clear guidance around wetland determinations, which helps inform agricultural producers’ decisions for their operations. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) published an interim final rule that ensures most determinations made since 1990 are considered certified, and producers can rely on the determinations to work farmland.

From my Window Do you ever wonder how people that are supposedly intelligent, that are elected to represent us in high offices, and who always seem to receive plenty of press regarding theirremarks,cansometimescome up with some very unintelligent advice. Take for instance the current situation regarding high meat prices, a problem facing many grocery shoppers today.

Chartreuse is not usually the first color that comes to mind when describing tree leaves. This bright yellow-green color may be eye-catching, but it can also be a sign that something is wrong. If your trees are looking more chartreuse than dark green this summer, chlorosis may be the culprit.

There will be no church service at Lakeview Church on Sunday, August 9, as it was decided to attend Cowboy Church at the Valentine Fairgrounds, where Brad Veurink will be the speaker. Cowboy Church will start at 9:00 a.m.

As summer winds down, many families begin preparing for the return to school. While the new school year can bring excitement, it can also create stress for both children and adults as routines, schedules, and expectations change.

It can feel like something straight out of a science fiction movie this time of year. Giant wasps seem to be flying around the yard, and armies of creepy crawlers are marching into homes. While these insects may look intimidating, the good news is they are usually more nuisance than danger.

The new school year is almost here! Help your child stay healthy, safe, and ready to learn by following these simple safety tips. • Remind young children that markers, crayons, glue, glitter, and other school supplies belong on paper—not in their mouths.