Nebraska Scientists Combat Woody Encroachment in The Great Plains

University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) representative Dr. Dirac Twidwell joins us with the latest on woody encroachment conservation efforts in the Great Plains.

LINCOLN, Neb. (RFD-TV) — The Great Plains grasslands are shrinking as invasive trees continue to threaten ecosystems that sustain agriculture across the region. Researchers at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln are working to address the growing problem of woody encroachment.

Dr. Dirac Twidwell with the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture says the issue has become increasingly urgent for Nebraska as native grasslands disappear, impacting both wildlife and working lands. His team has developed strategies to help landowners push back — including data-driven tools and management practices designed to identify and stop tree expansion before it spreads.

Twidwell also highlighted ongoing collaboration with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), where these tools are being applied to help producers manage land more effectively. As efforts expand, researchers are focused on scaling up prevention and restoration efforts to protect what remains of the Great Plains grasslands.

Related Stories
Campustown Showdown Founder Christian Calliham shared a sneak peek, explaining how the upcoming Iowa stock show evolved from its sister event, the Aggieville Showdown in Kansas.
California rewards low-carbon ethanol, not higher blending volumes.
Shells from restaurants are collected, cleaned, and returned to the water, where they can support new growth.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins joined us to discuss fertilizer markets, domestic supply efforts, trade priorities, and ongoing policy work aimed at stabilizing costs for U.S. farmers.
Louisiana State University Professor Shelly Pate Kerns says a late freeze forced widespread replanting of some crops across the state.
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses the DOJ investigation into U.S. beef packers, concerns about cattle pricing, and ongoing trade and animal health issues affecting producers.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The massive Morill wildfire left Nebraska ranchers facing major losses, as relief funds and federal aid step in to support recovery efforts.
Led by Sen. Rand Paul, lawmakers aim to prevent a November federal hemp ban, advocating for state control as farmers face planting uncertainties.
U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss rising input costs, fertilizer transparency efforts, and the role of trade in supporting farmer profitability.
Strong demand for U.S. beef in Mexico is boosting exports, with buyers seeking both variety meats and high-quality cuts like Prime and Choice ribeye.
Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss rising input costs, proposed fertilizer legislation, and potential support for farmers navigating tight margins.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to discuss the latest crop progress report and how market uncertainty and input costs are shaping planting decisions this spring.
Agriculture Shows
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Farm Traveler is for people who want to connect with their food and those who grow it. Thanks to direct-to-consumer businesses, agritourism, and social media, it’s now easier than ever to learn how our food is made and support local farmers. Here on the Farm Traveler, we want to connect you with businesses offering direct-to-consumer products you can try at home, agritourism sites you can visit with your family, and exciting new technologies that are changing how your food is being grown.
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.