A corn hybrid test plot is being planted this spring in Custer County, Nebraska, offering farmers a chance to see how different genetics perform under local conditions — all while the busy spring work of cattle and crops continues.
South of Ansley, farmer Tim Krause is hosting a Seitec research plot on one of his fields as planting season begins across central Nebraska. Like many operations in the region, Krause balances both crop production and a cattle operation, making spring a constant juggling act.
“It’s a pretty easy balance for this year because the cattle are paying the bills, so they’re always coming first,” Krause said.
Daily routines often start with livestock chores before shifting to fieldwork later in the day.
“Chores in the morning, usually crawl in the planting tractor after dinner, and then try to get some cows worked somewhere in between times,” he said.
The research plot itself covers about four acres and will compare several different corn hybrids planted in short strips using a specialized research planter. The goal is to evaluate how each variety performs under local growing conditions.
“This will be our second time doing this research plot with Seitec on this particular farm,” Krause said. “In this strip they’ll plant several different varieties in a short distance.”
Krause said the opportunity to host the plot came through a family connection. His cousin works as an area sales agronomist with Seitec based out of the McCook area.
“My cousin actually is an area sales agronomist with Seitec out of the McCook area, so that’s how we got associated with them,” he said.
When harvest arrives, the plot will be measured and analyzed using specialized equipment to track the performance of each hybrid.
“It’s pretty in-depth computerized stuff when they’re harvesting the research plot,” Krause said. “It’s a neat time of year to be here to see it.”
For now, though, the focus remains on getting both crops planted and cattle managed as spring work continues across central Nebraska.