2020 June ENREC Update

Update on research, education and engagement at the Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center during Covid-19.... Like everyone, the Covid-19 situation has really changed the way we are operating on a day-to-day basis at the center. Here are some updates on how ENREC has been managing through the pandemic. Agriculture is essential to Nebraskans and ENREC is central for providing critical ag research at the University of Nebraska. As you might expect, like farmers, we still have crops and livestock to care for and projects that require attention. So during this time of uncertainty, we have a small group of personnel on site performing the essential duties required to keep plants and animals cared for and to keep vital research on track. It is important to note that the University of Nebraska is committed to the health, safety and well-being of our employees and communities. Social distancing and illness prevention measures are practiced as these essential operations continue. And we are playing an important role in helping communities. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln has been producing hand sanitizer at Nebraska Innovation Campus for healthcare facilities and essential businesses across the state. The Nebraska Forest Service Fire Shop at ENREC has been hauling ethanol to Innovation Campus and distributing the final product across the state. And for those of you who have been gardening, you might be interested to know that plants and trees sold during the recent Nebraska Statewide Arboretum Spring Affair sale were cared for and housed at ENREC. We also have employees that have been working remotely, finding creative solutions to do what we do best. While we can’t have face to face programs right now, we’ve adapted programs into virtual opportunities, such as our recent annual field scout training, providing timely education and continuing ed credits. And Saunders County Extension staff are staying in touch with youth through virtual 4-H programs and meetings. They’ve been working hard to adjust plans to bring summer workshops online. They are also staying on top of developments to determine how the fair and future programs will play out this year. Nebraska Extension is providing resources and information to help Nebraskans deal with the many different challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Go to https://disaster.unl.edu/ and click on the Covid-19 resources link. You will find some great information on family, food, mental wellness, ag, business, health and more. We are forging ahead at the Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center – whether it is through essential research operations; creative, virtual engagement; or reaching out to communities in their time of need. As the University of Nebraska continues to monitor conditions, ENREC will adapt and be ready for any opportunities the future presents. Stay healthy, see you soon and GO BIG RED!