By Scout Nelson
Nebraska dry bean producers will have the opportunity to learn about the latest production practices, research findings, and market updates during the 2026 Dry Edible Bean Webinar Series. The free educational program is designed for growers, agricultural professionals, and anyone interested in improving dry bean production across Nebraska.
Nebraska Extension specialists and educators from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center (PREEC) are leading the webinar series, which begins on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The program brings together university experts who will share current research and practical recommendations covering weed management, insect control, irrigation, breeding, technology, and agricultural economics.
The webinars take place every Wednesday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. MT. Each session focuses on an important topic affecting dry bean production.
The schedule includes July 22, 2026, “Does Group 15 Herbicide Choice and Timing Matter?” presented by Nevin Lawrence, integrated weed management specialist.
On July 29, 2026, Pin-Chu Lai, extension entomologist, discusses “Thrips in Dry Bean: Insecticide Efficacy, Variety Variations, and More.”
The August 5, 2026, webinar features Wei-Zhen Liang, biological systems engineering research assistant professor, presenting “Edge AI Camera System for Weed, Disease, and Defoliation in Agriculture.”
During August 12, 2026, John Thomas and Gary Stone, water and cropping systems extension educators, provide an On-Farm Research Update.
On August 19, 2026, Xin Qiao, an irrigation management specialist, explains irrigation management practices for dry beans.
The August 26, 2026, session features Carlos Urrea, a dry bean breeding specialist, who discusses dry bean breeding activities in Nebraska.
The final webinar on September 23, 2026, highlights Ag Economy Insights for Producers, presented by Jessica Groskopf, agricultural economist.
The webinars are offered free of charge, but participants must register in advance to receive the webinar link. Recorded presentations become available the following day for those unable to attend live.
PREEC also hosts a Dry Bean Open House on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in Scottsbluff. Visitors can enjoy a meal, tour research plots, explore educational displays and information booths, and meet university specialists and researchers to learn about current dry bean projects.
Participants are encouraged to register for the open house by calling 308-632-1230 to help organizers plan the meal count.
Photo Credit: vecteezy-bergamont
Categories: Nebraska, Crops