More Weather Stations Improve Farm Decisions

By Scout Nelson

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln has added 21 new weather stations to the Nebraska Mesonet network this year, thanks to $1.48 million in funding from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, USDA Farm Service Agency, and local Natural Resources Districts. The expansion brings the total number of stations to 94, with a future reaching 200 across the state.

“To properly cover the state, you need a relatively dense network,” said Ruben Behnke, manager of the Nebraska Mesonet. “Otherwise, you're providing data that's not appropriate to people who are trying to put water on their crops. Even more financially important is applying for financial disaster relief through the Farm Service Agency for drought, flood, hail or other disasters.”

Farmers are the primary users of the Mesonet, relying on its data to decide when to irrigate, plant, spray, and harvest. Each station collects information on temperature, precipitation, humidity, solar radiation, wind speed, and soil moisture, offering vital insights for crop management and water conservation.

Government agencies, including the USDA, Army Corps of Engineers, and Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, use Mesonet data to predict weather events and assess disaster claims. The new funding also supports improved monitoring across the Upper Missouri River Basin, enhancing models for flood forecasting and drought management.

“During an active wildfire, real-time weather data is essential for firefighter safety and for making tactical decisions,” said John Erixson, Nebraska State Forester. He explained that the Nebraska Forest Service depends on Mesonet data to guide fire response efforts and to determine optimal times for replanting trees after wildfires.

Future upgrades may include cameras for early wildfire detection, enhancing both community safety and resource management.

As the network continues to expand, Behnke and his team emphasize the importance of consistent funding to sustain operations. Larkin Powell, director of the School of Natural Resources, reaffirmed this commitment, stating, “Our Nebraska Mesonet team has met the challenge of adding stations in key gaps throughout the state. I have prioritized the Mesonet’s need for continued operational funding as we work with our partners.”

The expansion represents a significant step toward improving Nebraska’s resilience through science-based weather observation and agricultural innovation.

Photo  Credit:gettyimages-tlillico