By Scout Nelson
Field pea production continues gaining interest across Nebraska as producers explore alternative crop opportunities and new management practices. Upcoming field pea plot tours will give farmers, agronomists, and industry professionals an opportunity to review current research and discuss crop performance in western Nebraska.
Nicolas Cafaro La Menza, Cropping Systems Specialist, and Dipak Santra, Alternative Crops Breeding Specialist, will share information from field pea studies conducted with support from the Nebraska Dry Pea and Lentil Commission and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture. The tours will focus on field pea production systems, agronomic management, and future opportunities for Nebraska growers.
The first field pea plot tour will begin Wednesday, May 13, at 5 p.m. Central time at the dryland farm of the West Central Research Extension and Education Center near North Platte. The research site includes 20 acres of field peas featuring both spring and winter variety trials. Agronomic studies examining planting dates, plant populations, and planting depth will also be available for review. Researchers are also evaluating peas grown in both corn and wheat residue systems.
Participants will walk through the plots and discuss the challenges and opportunities connected to field pea expansion across Nebraska. Organizers encourage attendees to share observations and production experiences during the event. There will be no formal presentations.
Pea breeders and developers from Washington State, including Kurt Braunwart, Patrick Dailey, and Jackson Meyer, will attend the tours to discuss genetics, production methods, and market opportunities with Nebraska producers and agricultural industry representatives.
The evening agenda includes the field tour at 5 p.m. followed by pizza, networking, and discussion at 6:30 p.m. at WCREEC. Registration is not required, and all producers, agronomists, and industry partners are welcome to attend.
Additional field pea plot visits will take place Thursday, May 14, at the Henry Stumpf International Wheat Center, 76025 Rd 329, near Grant. A second tour will be held at 1 p.m. (MT) at Ronald Rushman Farm, 4627 Road 135, near Gurley. These tours continue efforts to support field pea research and production development across Nebraska agriculture.
Photo Credit: istock-pixeldigits
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Wheat