Registration Open for 2025 Nebraska Ranch Practicum

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 2025 Nebraska Ranch Practicum offered by Nebraska Extension.

The practicum will be held during eight sessions over the course of three seasons 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.

The practicum will be held June 3 and 4, July 10, September 3 and 4, and November 6, 2025; and January 6 and 7, 2026. 

Classroom activities will open and close the practicum in North Platte at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center 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 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.  

“The Nebraska Ranch Practicum advantage is in the approach, where beef production is viewed as an integrated continuous ongoing system,” said Troy Walz, Nebraska Extension educator. “This approach gives participants the training and understanding to consider the use of resources, management, and economics in the context of their personal preferences and goals for their ranch.”

To register, submit a completed application and registration fee by May 5. Applications will not be accepted after that date. 

Enrollment is limited to 35 participants. Applicants will be notified of their status no later than May 19. Refunds will be issued if space is not available.