Fire Danger Map

This year, the Nebraska Forest Service partnered with the National Weather Service to address technological gaps in the fire danger map. Over the last few years, the NFS heard from many fire chiefs that the map was a valuable asset for issuing burn permits. However, as technology advanced so did the issue of compatibility.

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Celebrate Arbor Day

When J. Sterling Morton founded Arbor Day back in 1872, his idea was simple—set aside a special day for tree planting. And today, that idea is more important than ever.

Among the pioneers moving into the Nebraska Territory in 1854 was J. Sterling Morton from Detroit. He and his wife were lovers of nature, and the home they established in Nebraska was quickly planted with trees, shrubs and flowers.

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Historic eastern cottonwood in Burt County
Cottonwood's Roots Trace Back to Earliest Days of Burt County

It is not often you find living relics of Nebraska’s settlement days. We renovate main streets and preserve historic buildings, sure. But we are not always able to find things that have stood the test of time—in this case over 160 years. However, one eastern cottonwood south of Decatur proved to be that and much more—thanks largely to the detailed records of one of Burt County’s earliest families.

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Picture of volunteers and NFS staff planting at the 2017 Horning Farm Field Day
Less weeds, more WOW at Horning Farm

Here's a snapshot from a garden design demonstration put on as part of Horning Farm Field Day last September near Plattsmouth, Nebraska. This event, hosted by the Nebraska Forest Service at its easternmost research forest, was a chance for the public and green industry professionals to learn the latest in tree and landscape news.

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Photo of Balsam Fir
Finding the right Christmas tree for your home

It's that time of year! We asked asked former Rural Forestry Program Leader John DuPlissis for his advice on finding the perfect tree for your holiday celebrations!

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Accomplishments at Horning State Farm Demonstration Forest

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Spider Mite Outbreak in Juniper and Cedar
A closeup view of the spider mite's web.There are several factors that can cause an increase in mite populations. Before treatment, keep in mind that mites can build resistance to some products.


By: Jennifer Morris, Forest Health Specialist
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Chiggers and Trombiculosis
Trombiculosis is a rash or infestation caused by trombiculid mites, more commonly known as chiggers. We all have suffered from this malady at some time. Be informed and aware of how you can avoid future bouts of trombiculosis. Read Chiggers and Trombiculosis
Bradford Pear Damage

By: Jennifer Morris, Forest Health Specialist

Bradford pears (Pyrus calleryana ‘Bradford’) have shown bark cracking and bark sloughing in the last few years. Mower injury and stress fractures from heavy snow loads or high wind events may lead to bark cracking and sloughing, but it is more likely that most of the damage has been caused by temperature fluctuations that we have experienced in the fall, winter and spring over the course of several years. 

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