Continued below-average precipitation reduces groundwater levels, report shows

Lincoln, Neb. —Groundwater levels have declined in most of Nebraska following multiple years of below-average precipitation, University of Nebraska–Lincoln scientists found in a new statewide analysis. About three-quarters of the 4,787 observation wells across the state experienced groundwater level declines during 2021-22.

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Drone’s-eye view earns cover of prestigious journal

Lincoln, Neb. —Welcome to the snapshot of a Husker-made image that recently drew eyes and earned exposure beyond the confines of campus. Looking to learn (in <1,000 words) how our photographers and artists create the iconic? Picture this…

It could pass for shag carpeting well past whatever passed for its prime. Or a patch of grass, maybe, in need of a cut and some overseeding.

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Helzer discusses building resilient land with cattle

Lincoln, Neb. —On almost any given day, a person can drive by grazing land owned by The Nature Conservancy in Nebraska and see an artist in residence.

The conservancy’s science director, Chris Helzer, told National Science Foundation Research Traineeship students recently that the environmental group uses cows as “habitat artists” to build resilience in grasslands.

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Huskers take 4th at national soil judging contest

Lincoln, Neb. —The University of Nebraska–Lincoln Soil Judging Team took fourth place at the National Collegiate Soil Judging Contest, held March 26–31 near Woodward, Oklahoma. The Soil Science Society of America sponsors the competition annually and Oklahoma State University was the 2023 host.

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Nebraska researchers identify genes that help corn adapt to new environments

Lincoln, Neb. —Corn plays a key role in Nebraska’s economy and identity. Yet, this was not always the case.

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Agronomy and Horticulture is growing the future of ag

Lincoln, Neb. —Agriculture is the heart and soul of Nebraska. The state’s leading industry, its impact goes far beyond the plate — providing Nebraskans with jobs, contributing to the state’s economy, and touching the lives of its citizens every day.

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Study confirms nitrate can draw uranium into groundwater

Lincoln, Neb. —Eight years ago, the data was sound but only suggestive, the evidence strong but circumstantial.

Now, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Karrie Weber and colleagues have experimentally confirmed that nitrate, a compound common in fertilizers and animal waste, can help transport naturally occurring uranium from the underground to groundwater.

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Peterson to serve as interim Ag Econ department head; Brooks to serve as interim associate head

Lincoln, Neb. —Wes Peterson will serve as the interim head of the Department of Agricultural Economics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His appointment is effective April 1.

Peterson succeeds Larry Van Tassell, who is stepping away as department head after more than a decade in the position. Van Tassell will continue to serve as a faculty member in the department.

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Loy to lead Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Center

Lincoln, Neb. —Dustin Loy has been selected as the next director of the Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His appointment was effective beginning March 1.

Loy succeeds Bruce Brodersen, who spent more than 30 years on the UNL faculty and has led the center since 2019.

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