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.
CoBank Knowledge Exchange’s Jeff Johnston shares the group’s positive perspective on expanding data centers into rural areas and weighs the risks and rewards for those communities.
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Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses how January’s WASDE report could impact ARC and PLC payments and updates on disaster relief programs as farmers navigate a challenging market environment.
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Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.
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The Pennsylvania Farm Show continues through Saturday, wrapping up another successful year of celebrating agriculture in the Commonwealth.
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Shaun Haney joined us to discuss Canada’s new trade agreement with China, the potential impact on farmers and exporters, and what it could mean for U.S.–Canada trade relations going forward.
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National Corn Growers Association Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses corn supply pressures, market fundamentals, policy considerations, and producer outlook for the year ahead.
January 16, 2026 01:13 PM
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