Nebraska Ag Briefing
Practical updates, official resources, and plain-language guidance selected for Nebraska producers. Updated September 9, 2026.
Nebraska corn maturity and winter-wheat planting are behind normal pace. Here are the statewide numbers and the practical questions producers should review.
Read the AgriStax analysisFor the week ending September 6, corn maturity reached 14% versus the 25% five-year average, while 61% of subsoil moisture was short or very short.
Read the guideThe SHAPE project offers participating farms a personalized report and extensive testing valued by the project at about $1,200 per field. Fields must be at least 10 acres; enrollment closes when Nebraska's allocation fills.
Open official sourceThe workshops run 9 a.m.–noon on September 23 in Ord and September 24 in Curtis. Registration is required through the Nebraska Rural Response Hotline at 800-464-0258.
Open official sourceFSA says its Application Fast Track cut processing by about eight calendar days for qualifying low-risk direct-loan applicants during the pilot.
Open official sourceUNL's field training covered representative sampling, sample handling, laboratory interpretation, and the federal assessment protocol used to document soil health.
Open official sourceThe latest U.S. Drought Monitor reports better soil moisture and streamflow after recent rain, while long-term abnormal dryness and moderate drought remain.
Open official sourceEligible 2023 and 2024 crop losses may include indemnified, shallow, uninsured, and quality losses. Applications go through the producer's FSA county office.
Open official sourceAn AgriStax analysis of rising production costs, Nebraska land values, cash rent, and the farm-level questions behind any new commitment.
Read the guideA practical checklist for sorting opportunities by acres, history, location, commitment, costs, and compatibility.
Read the guideUSDA data show farm real estate value rose 3.5% from 2025. Statewide cropland cash rent increased 0.4% to $227 per acre.
Open official sourceTotal 2025 farm and ranch expenses rose 6%. Livestock expenses increased 33% to $11.6 billion, according to USDA NASS data.
Open official sourceEight partnerships are being recruited. Project support includes redcedar-removal labor, biochar application, and soil testing.
Open official sourceAgriStax summaries are informational. Confirm current terms, deadlines, and eligibility with the linked agency or program administrator before acting.