By Scout Nelson
The 2026 Bean Growers Day provides dry bean growers with an opportunity to learn about current research and management practices. The free event will take place on Aug. 25, 2026, at the Henry J. Stumpf International Wheat Center near Grant, Nebraska. The program covers insect management, irrigation, on-farm research, weed control, crop varieties, and industry updates.
A major focus is pest management. Western bean cutworms are common in many dry bean fields this year. Nebraska Extension specialists provide information on how growers can scout fields and identify signs of this pest. Researchers also share updates on thrips, which survive winters in Nebraska and are found across the state. Current research is also examining better management thresholds for thrips.
On-farm research is another important part of the program. Nebraska Extension Educator John Thomas discusses five studies being conducted with growers. The research includes black-eyed pea varieties and plant populations, as well as biological products being tested on Great Northern and pinto beans.
“We have five studies altogether this year and with several growers,” Thomas said. “We're looking at everything from varieties of black-eyed peas, which is a type of bean, to populations of black-eyed peas. We're also looking at some biological products on both Great Northerns and pinto beans.”
The event also covers irrigation management under limited water conditions. Participants learn about the 2026 irrigation season and new tools that may help growers manage water more effectively.
Other sessions focus on the dry bean industry, black-eyed pea variety plots, and weed management in the Nebraska Panhandle. These topics give growers practical information they can use when making production decisions.
The event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. MT, with lunch provided. Registration is requested, call 308-352-4340 to register. Certified Crop Adviser credits are available. Lunch is sponsored by Jacks Bean, Kelley Bean, Trinidad Benham and the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission.
Photo Credit: getty-images-elhenyo
Categories: Nebraska, Crops