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First Solar-Powered Center Pivot System Launched in Nebraska

By Kellan Heavican

A farm in South-Central Nebraska is the site of one of the nation’s first solar-powered center pivot systems.

Valley Irrigation and Farmers National Company recently partnered on the project, which provides power to a 7-tower, corner arm machine to help offset energy consumption to irrigate the field.

Matt Gunderson is with Farmers National Company and says it helps producers become more sustainable and increase return on investment. “We create some on farm generation not only to power a farm, but how do we tie it back into the grid system to support the electricity needs that are out there? And, long the way with it, sell that electricity back for some excess needs and create some investment opportunities and income generation for producers.”

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R3 Corn Growth Stage Explained: Why Late-Season Tissue Sampling Matters

Video: R3 Corn Growth Stage Explained: Why Late-Season Tissue Sampling Matters

Corn pollination may be behind us, but the work isn't over.

In this field update from the Nutrien Innovation Farm in Champaign, Illinois, agronomist Tim Sickman discusses why growers should stay engaged with field scouting during the R3 (milk) stage of corn development. While favorable weather, strong pollination, and early grain fill are encouraging signs, important questions about crop nutrition and yield potential still remain.

Tim explains: What the R3 corn growth stage looks like

Why successful pollination isn't the finish line

The importance of late-season field scouting

How tissue sampling can identify nutrient deficiencies

The role of sulfur, zinc, potassium, and other nutrients during grain fill

Using tissue analysis to improve future fertility management plans

As corn moves through grain fill, understanding nutrient availability and plant health can provide valuable insights for maximizing yield potential and planning for next season.