By Natalie Jones
Ranchers and cattle producers interested in learning about the latest cutting-edge research in range livestock production from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln are encouraged to register for the 2026 Nebraska Ranch Practicum offered by Nebraska Extension. Master 'Ranch Ready' principles designed for immediate use on your ranch.
The practicum will be held during eight sessions over the course of three seasons in order to cover the production cycle of livestock and forage resources. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of topics, including the effective use of decision support tools to evaluate management and marketing alternatives, plant identification, range condition and grazing strategies, wildlife management, evaluation of cow body condition scores, and beef cattle production systems. Ranch ready principles will be taught that can be applied to participant’s ranching operations.
The practicum will be held June 2 and 3, July 1, September 9 and 10, and November 5, 2026; and January 6 and 7, 2027. Classroom activities will open and close the practicum in North Platte with the remainder of the classes conducted at the University of Nebraska's Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory, a working ranch with education and research facilities, near Whitman.
The practicum can count for college or continuing education credit.
The registration fee is $750. The fee for a spouse is an additional $400. Registration covers educational materials, noon meals and breaks. Participants are responsible for travel and lodging expenses. The practicum can count for college or continuing education credit.
Source : unl.edu