Pasture and Forage Planning for Spring

By Scout Nelson

Understanding lease agreements and planning spring forages are important parts of pasture and forage management in Nebraska. Many land rental agreements are still based on verbal or handshake arrangements. While these agreements are common, it is important to understand how and when they end.

For cropland, the Nebraska Supreme Court defines the lease year as beginning on March 1. If a year-to-year verbal cropland lease is ending, notice must be given six months in advance. This means that notice must be provided by Sept. 1. Written notice sent by registered mail is strongly recommended to ensure proof of delivery and reduce misunderstandings.

Pasture leases are generally simpler. These leases usually follow the grazing season and last five to six months. Most pasture leases end automatically once grazing concludes, unless different terms are outlined in an agreement. Even though verbal agreements are common, written leases provide clarity and protect all parties involved.

Sample lease agreements and educational resources are available through the Ag Lease 101 Document Library at https://aglease101.org/. This resource offers examples and guidance for building clear and fair lease agreements.

Spring annual forage planning should also begin early in the year. Early planning allows time to assess feed needs and secure seed early, which may reduce costs. Cool-season annual forages are typically planted from mid to late March through early April, once soil temperatures reach 42 to 45 degrees.

Oats are the most planted spring annual forage in Nebraska. Spring triticale and spring barley are also strong options and provide similar yield and forage quality. These crops can be planted alone or mixed, depending on seed cost and forage goals. Grazing usually begins in late May and can continue into early July. Hay harvest often occurs in late June.

Italian ryegrass may be added for extended grazing, while field peas can improve forage quality and provide nitrogen benefits. Herbicide history should always be reviewed, as residual products may limit forage establishment.

Additional pasture and forage updates are available through Pasture and Forage Minute at https://cropwatch.unl.edu/pasture-forage-minute.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-jacqueline-nix