By Scout Nelson
Information shared by Gary Stone, Nebraska Extension Water and Crops Educator, along with Dr. Xin Qiao, Nebraska Extension Water Irrigation Specialist, and Brock Ortner, Nebraska Extension Livestock Systems Educator, highlights crop water needs during dry conditions. With drought affecting many areas and uncertainty around irrigation water supplies, producers continue to look for reliable information to plan for the growing season.
Crop water requirements depend on several factors, including soil moisture, rainfall, temperature, wind, elevation, and crop growth stage. These conditions influence how much water each crop needs throughout the season. Different crops require water at different times, and understanding these needs helps farmers manage irrigation more effectively.
Grain crops need the most water during pollination and grain filling stages. Dry beans require steady water throughout the growing season because of their shallow root systems. Sugarbeets need water early in their growth due to smaller roots, but they can handle some stress later as roots grow deeper and stronger.
To support irrigation planning, farmers can use tools such as the ACREE app. This mobile tool helps schedule irrigation without the need for soil moisture sensors, making it easier for producers to manage water use efficiently.
Farmers growing forage crops for grazing or harvest also need to be aware of potential risks to livestock. Certain crops, including corn, sorghum, millet, brassicas, and small grains, may accumulate nitrates. Warm-season crops may also carry a higher risk of prussic acid toxicity. These risks can increase during stressful conditions such as drought, frost, or high nitrogen use.
Testing forage is an important step to ensure livestock safety. Proper testing helps farmers detect harmful levels of nitrates or prussic acid before feeding.
This guidance supports farmers in making informed decisions about water use, crop management, and livestock safety. It highlights the importance of careful planning during challenging growing conditions to protect both crop production and animal health.
For more information, contact Gary Stone at 308-632-1230, gstone2@unl.edu, Dr. Xin Qiao at 308-632-1246, xin.qiao@unl.edu, or Brock Ortner at 308-327-2312, bortner2@nebraska.edu.
Photo Credit: istock-laughingmango
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Livestock, Sustainable Agriculture