By Scout Nelson
Nebraska livestock producers are encouraged to carefully evaluate pasture conditions, rental agreements, and forage supplies as the 2026 grazing season continues. Current pasture rental rates, changing forage production, and hay inventories all play an important role in making sound management decisions for the months ahead.
Shannon Sand, Agricultural Economics Extension Educator, and Ben Beckman, Extension Educator, shared practical guidance to help producers make informed decisions about pasture leases, grazing management, and forage planning throughout the season. Their recommendations focus on improving risk management, protecting forage resources, and maintaining livestock productivity.
The final 2026 Nebraska Cash Rental Rates Survey shows that average monthly pasture rental rates increased by 2% to 8% compared to last year. The North reporting district, including much of the Sandhills, recorded the highest average rental rate at $82.10 per cow-calf pair per month.
Northeast and Central Nebraska followed, while the Northwest district reported the state's lowest average rate. Rental prices continue to vary depending on pasture quality, fencing, water availability, grazing management responsibilities, cattle size, and local demand.
Producers are encouraged to use written pasture lease agreements. A clear lease should identify stocking rates, grazing periods, payment schedules, and plans for handling unexpected situations such as drought.
Recent rainfall has improved the appearance of many native pastures across Nebraska, but green fields do not always mean strong forage production.
Early-season clipping data showed that cool-season grasses remained well below normal production levels in some areas. Although warm-season grasses may respond to summer rainfall, future growth depends on continued moisture and healthy plants.
Producers are advised to inspect pastures directly instead of judging forage conditions from roadsides. Plant height, leaf growth, remaining forage, bare soil, and grazing patterns all provide valuable information when estimating available forage.
Mid-summer is also an ideal time to review total forage supplies. Producers should compare expected hay production with winter feeding needs and consider planting summer annuals or fall forages if shortages are expected.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Hay & Forage, Livestock, Weather