NORFOLK, Neb. (KTIV) -
The lack of water and heat has Nebraska farmers looking for answers. Many have been heading to drought forums to find solutions.
One in Norfolk was so crowded, organizers had to move it to a bigger facility. In all, more than 100. Minds parched for ways to beat the relentless heat.
"Anything past this is going to be very desperate," said Nebraska Farmer Lynn Spatz.
Spatz is a corn and soybean grower. She says the high temps might mean a harvest of only 65% of her crops. Worse if rain doesn't show up soon.
"If it does not, there is not going to be anything left," said Spatz.
Statewide Nebraska is burning up. Nearly everyone is experiencing a moderate to severe drought. Crops are suffering. The USDA says 43% of Nebraska's corn is in good to excellent condition. That's down from 79%, this time last year. Numbers are worse for soybeans, 34% good to excellent, compared to 77%, last year.
Weather reports show no break anytime soon, which ag officials say is putting farmers on edge.
"We're not used to being in this kind of situation and so everybody's got questions. What they can do, what they can't do," said Twig Marston with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Northeast Research & Extension Center.
To answer those questions, Marston helped organize drought discussions. For the last few days, experts have been traveling the northeast corner of the state, informing growers of disaster aid programs, and safety tips.
Beef producers are getting in on it too. Marston says they're at risk because hot weather stresses crops, building up nitrate levels in feed. It's toxic to cattle.
"The biggest recommendation we have is, if you make feed, test it," said Marston.
Good info. for Spatz, who also has a cow herd. But, what she really wants, she can't get at a meeting.
"We'd love to have some rain. I've been praying everyday," she said.
If you live in Nebraska and want to check out one of these meetings, there are a few more Thursday. Starting at 10 AM, experts will be in O'Neill. Then Clarkson at 7 PM. For more details, contact your local UNL extension office.
