Webinar: Pasture and Range Weeds
When severe drought, such as occurred in 2012, is followed by favorable environmental conditions the next year, it can lead to an explosion of weedy species in pastures and rangelands.
Extension Range and Forage Specialist Jerry Volesky presented a webinar on this topic and discussed some of the different weed responses that were observed along with when, and if, control measures should be applied.
View the Pasture and Range Weeds webinar.
Water Conservation Materials Help Nebraskans Become Water Wise
Many Nebraska communities have instituted water restrictions again this summer after one of the worst droughts in the state's history in 2012. Even where restrictions haven't been imposed, Nebraskans are being encouraged to conserve water whenever possible as drought conditions persist in many parts of the state.
Visit the 2013 Public Water Supply Restrictions page to get the latest list of communities that have issued mandatory or voluntary water use restrictions. The page will be updated regularly throughout the summer.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln experts also have gathered ready-to-use information to help people conserve water, including three newly revised "Make Every Drop Count" publications, new "Water Wise" NebGuides, concise water-wise news articles, water-wise audio recordings, and a 100-Gallon Challenge.
Recycle Graywater to Conserve Water
Conserving water becomes all the more important when supplies are low due to drought.
Graywater — water saved from baths, showers, lavatories and laundering — can be used for irrigating lawns and gardens if treatment regulations to eliminate contaminants are followed.
Watch this video produced by UNL Extension Educators Sharon Skipton and Jan Hygnstrom to learn more about graywater irrigation systems.
Facing Family Finances During Drought
Families can help reduce the natural stress that comes with reduced income by encouraging open discussion about family finance issues. Bring your family together to discuss your values and attitudes toward money. Do your expenditures reflect your priorities? Which priorities need to be met in the short-term and which can be delayed slightly? Read More