The 2019 Nebraska Ranch Practicum gives ranchers cutting edge research in range livestock production from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.  Natural resources, livestock management, and economic reality are integrated throughout the Practicum.

During the three-season UNL Extension class, participants have the opportunity to expand their knowledge with an overview of ranching practices from new angles.  Throughout the program, participants will cover 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.

Classroom activities will open and close the Practicum in North Platte with the remainder of the classes conducted at UNL’s Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory, a working ranch with education and research facilities, near Whitman.  The 12,800 acre ranch provides hands-on experience to ranchers.  Practicum dates are June 6 and 7, July 11, September 4 and 5, and November 7, 2019, and January 8 and 9, 2020 for the eight-session class.  Scheduling of the sessions from June to January is designed to cover the production cycle of both livestock and forage resources. 

The 2019 Nebraska Ranch Practicum can count for college or continuing education credit.  Participants looking to earn credits should make arrangements during the initial session.  

The registration fee for this eight-session Practicum is $675.  To participate in the 2019 Nebraska Ranch Practicum, please submit a completed application and registration fee by May 1, 2019.  No applications will be accepted after May 1.  Fees for a spouse are an additional $350.  All educational materials, noon meals and breaks are included.  Participants are responsible for travel and lodging expenses. 

Enrollment is limited to 35, and applicants will be notified of their status no later than May 21.  Deposits will be refunded if space is not available. 

For applications or additional information, contact Troy Walz at 308-872-6831, e-mail troy.walz@unl.edu or visit the Practicum website at http://nebraskaranchpracticum.unl.edu/