Omaha, United States (Local)
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Ben Beckman's coverage primarily focuses on agriculture and farming, with a particular emphasis on local topics relevant to Nebraska. He often cites data and provides industry-specific insights related to crop management, livestock care, and environmental factors affecting agricultural practices.
Given Ben's focus on agriculture in the local context of Nebraska, potential sources for outreach might include agronomists, agricultural researchers or scientists specializing in crop residues utilization, forage quality assessment, soil sampling techniques specific to the region. Additionally, experts in cattle herd management or specialists in winter water needs of livestock may also be valuable contributors to his articles.
Considering Ben’s predominant focus on Agriculture & Farming themes within a localized scope of Norfolk and Nebraska specifically rather than national trends or global issues such as climate change or public health would be more suitable for reaching out effectively.
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Putting up good quality hay from summer annual grasses like sorghum-sudan hybrids, pearl millet, and forage sorghums can be tricky. Here are some tips to help make sure these hays are of good quality and dry, so it won’t heat or mold.
While it is a relatively drought-tolerant forage, alfalfa does not have specific growth stages when it is less sensitive to water stress. If water is not available, the plant will slow or stop growing and go dormant. Then, when water becomes available, growth resumes. Dormant plants may be harvested or grazed with relative safety but may not be worth the time or cost.
Tall white flowers in your hay meadow may be pretty to look at, but beware — they could be water hemlock, one of the most toxic plants to livestock in Nebraska.
By: Ben Beckman, Cheryl Dunn
Pastures and rangelands are the backbone of Nebraska's beef industry, providing essential forage for livestock. However, the presence of weeds can significantly diminish both the quality and quantity of forage available, impacting herd health and productivity. Invasive species, in particular, pose a formidable challenge, requiring proactive management strategies to mitigate their spread and detrimental effects. This article aims to explore effective methods for controlling weeds in pastures and rangelands, focusing on new invasive species to look out for.
Land prices and rental rates are among the highest expenses a producer must face annually. Every summer, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Center of Agricultural Profitability (CAP) releases the Nebraska Farm Real Estate Market survey. Those wanting to check it out themselves may find a pdf version at
Silage harvest for fully irrigated full-season corn usually begins 45 days or 800 GDD’s after the tassel / silking growth stage. However, growing conditions and the season length of the plant itself can make predictions based on the calendar fuzzy at best.
Silage season is just around the corner but even before anything is cut, proper preparation now can improve chances of a successful harvest. Improper silage storage and fermentation can result in losses up to 20% before feeding.
Late summer always seems like a time when weeds can become quite noticeable in pastures. While they may be an eyesore, control methods now are limited. Proper ID may help with making the right management call.
With any forage crops, the risks associated with utilizing them as supplemental forage, especially as our environmental conditions begin to change, are important to understand and manage for. This becomes critical as we move into fall.
While the first frost of the year isn't here yet, how we manage pastures in the fall can affect plant health through the winter and ultimately production next spring. Are you giving your pastures proper care this fall?
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