UNL report guides growers on efficient late-season water use.
As crops near maturity, efficient irrigation management remains important for protecting yields and maintaining crop health.
Gary Stone, Nebraska Extension educator, and Xin Qiao, irrigation and water management specialist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research and Extension Center, developed the final 2026 crop water use estimates to help growers in the Nebraska Panhandle and northeast Colorado make informed late-season irrigation decisions. The September,2-8,2026 estimates offer growers practical guidance on crop water requirements, allowing them to adjust irrigation schedules based on current field conditions.
Crop water use varies according to factors such as evapotranspiration (ET), crop growth stage, temperature, soil conditions, wind, and precipitation. Because these conditions differ across locations, water requirements can vary significantly between fields and regions.
Using regional data and calculations, the report provides crop-specific water use estimates for the Nebraska Panhandle and northeast Colorado. These estimates help growers apply water more efficiently, avoid over-irrigation, and improve overall water resource management.
The report also highlights the value of irrigation planning tools, including crop growth stage information, growing degree day data, evapotranspiration resources, and irrigation management guidance. Together, these resources support better decision-making and encourage more efficient and sustainable agricultural practices as the growing season comes to an end.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-songbird