Nebraska CropWatch

The Nebraska CropWatch Podcast provides the latest research-based information from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln on crop production, pest management, and related agricultural information for Nebraska farmers and agribusinesses. CropWatch Podcasts feature researchers, extension educators, and other experts. For more information on these topics, visit www.cropwatch.unl.edu , where new articles are published weekly during the cropping season.
The Nebraska CropWatch Podcast provides the latest research-based information from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln on crop production, pest management, and related agricultural information for Nebraska farmers and agribusinesses. CropWatch Podcasts feature researchers, extension educators, and other experts. For more information on these topics, visit www.cropwatch.unl.edu , where new articles are published weekly during the cropping season.
Episodes
Episodes



Feb 21, 2026
Feb 21, 2026
12 min



Feb 16, 2026
Feb 16, 2026
7 min
In this episode of the CropWatch Podcast, Eric Hunt discusses the critical fire danger across Nebraska due to high winds, low humidity, and drought conditions. He emphasizes the need for caution and outlines the upcoming weather changes, including potential snowfall later in the week. The conversation highlights the importance of being aware of fire risks and preparing for changing weather conditions.



Feb 12, 2026
Episode 231. False spring early next week
Feb 12, 2026
Feb 12, 2026
19 min
In this episode of the CropWatch Podcast, host Eric Hunt discusses critical issues surrounding groundwater and nitrate risk, providing insights from recent research. He also offers a detailed weather forecast for Nebraska, highlighting significant temperature trends, potential storm systems, and the implications of a possible cold snap. The conversation further delves into the current drought conditions affecting the state, emphasizing the need for precipitation to mitigate deficits. The episode concludes with a summary of the week's weather patterns and their impact on agriculture.
Takeaways
The link between management practices and nitrate mobility is crucial.High nitrogen application rates can lead to groundwater contamination.Temperatures are expected to be significantly above average next week.A weak frontal passage may affect temperatures mid-week.Potential for a cold snap could impact sensitive vegetation.Drought conditions are worsening across Nebraska.Precipitation deficits are significant in many areas of the state.The upcoming storm systems may bring much-needed moisture.Snowfall later in the month could be beneficial for soil moisture.The weather patterns indicate a possibility of colder temperatures returning.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Overview of Groundwater Concerns02:18 Weather Forecast and Temperature Trends06:26 Upcoming Storm Systems and Temperature Fluctuations10:39 Potential Cold Snap and Its Implications14:01 Drought Conditions and Precipitation Deficits



Feb 6, 2026
Feb 6, 2026
30 min
Discussion of global temperatures, ongoing drought concerns, recent cold, and the outlook for the next few weeks through the spring.



Jan 30, 2026
Episode 229. Dry and milder week ahead
Jan 30, 2026
Jan 30, 2026
16 min
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Upcoming Events
01:21Current Weather Conditions
04:45Drought Conditions in Nebraska
08:27Weather Forecast for the Week Ahead
14:24Long-Term Weather Outlook



Jan 20, 2026



Jan 9, 2026
Episode 227. Winter starting to show back up
Jan 9, 2026
Jan 9, 2026
19 min
00:00 Introduction to CropWatch Podcast 202601:45 Northeast Nebraska Crops Update02:43 Impact of Recent Rainfall05:37 Climate Change and Weather Patterns10:50 Upcoming Weather Forecast and Temperature Changes14:34 Drought Conditions and Agricultural Implications
Keywords
CropWatch Podcast, Nebraska agriculture, weather updates, climate change, drought conditions, rainfall impact, soybean disease, grain storage, nitrogen reduction, weather forecast



Dec 19, 2025
Dec 19, 2025
52 min
In this conversation, Eric Hunt speaks with Hannah Birgé and Jacob Fritton from the Nature Conservancy about the intersection of agriculture and conservation. They discuss their backgrounds, the changes in farming practices over generations, and the economic challenges farmers face. The conversation dives into the Nature Conservancy's approach to working with farmers, the concept of regenerative agriculture, and the importance of soil health. They also touch on technological advancements in farming, the utilization of data, and the idea of stackable enterprises for income diversification. The discussion concludes with reflections on the hope and concerns surrounding modern agriculture and the importance of collaboration and listening in extension work.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Nature Conservancy Team03:59 Backgrounds and Experiences of the Guests08:03 The Nature Conservancy's Role in Agriculture11:55 Economic Hurdles in Conservation Practices16:59 Understanding Regenerative Agriculture20:51 Balancing Agriculture and Conservation25:35 The Technological Evolution of Farming27:25 Data-Driven Decisions in Agriculture30:31 Stackable Enterprises: Diversifying Income in Agriculture35:40 The Role of Global Supply Chains in Agriculture41:28 Challenges and Opportunities in Modern Agriculture






