LINCOLN, NEB. (March 19, 2026) — The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Department of Agricultural Economics has awarded Nebraska Farmer magazine, a Farm Progress publication, the prestigious 2026 Outstanding Service Award. The honor was presented during the department's annual Student, Alumni, and Service Recognition Banquet on March 10, 2026, in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Left to right: Curt Arens, Nebraska Farmer senior editor; Elizabeth Hodges, Farm Progress staff writer; and Brad Lubben, Nebraska Extension policy specialist. Photo Credit: Ryan Evans, UNL Ag Econ Department

The award recognizes Nebraska Farmer’s long-standing commitment to supporting Nebraska’s agricultural community. Since its founding in 1859, the magazine has been a trusted resource for tens of thousands of farm households across the state, providing critical insights into agribusiness, agricultural production and policy. The publication has also maintained a close partnership with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Nebraska Extension, leveraging faculty and Extension specialists' expertise to deliver timely, impactful content.

A Legacy of Collaboration

Nebraska Farmer’s collaboration with the Department of Agricultural Economics spans decades. The magazine regularly features contributions from department experts, including Brad Lubben, Nebraska Extension policy specialist, who has authored the monthly "Policy Report" column for over 20 years. Additionally, faculty members contribute to the "Tough Decisions" column, addressing critical topics that resonate with Nebraska’s farmers.

Looking Ahead to Husker Harvest Days

The award comes as Nebraska Farmer prepares for its prominent role in the upcoming Husker Harvest Days, scheduled for Sept. 15-17, 2026, in Grand Island, Nebraska. Known as the world’s largest totally irrigated working farm show, Husker Harvest Days was founded in 1978 by Nebraska Farmer, in partnership with the Agricultural Institute of Nebraska and volunteers in Grand Island and Hall County. The show serves as a platform for the magazine to connect directly with its audience and highlight the latest advancements in agriculture. To learn more about the annual event focused on crops, cattle and community, visit www.HuskerHarvestDays.com.

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About Farm Progress 

As part of Informa Markets, Farm Progress is the largest, most diversified agriculture information business in North America. Through a robust network of live events, digital products, data, marketing services, broadcasting and local and national publications, Farm Progress enables the nation's most economically significant farmers, growers and ranchers to connect and do business. It serves 80% of the 2 million farms and ranches in the U.S., and an estimated 85% of the nation's annual agricultural gross domestic product. Visit our website at www.FarmProgress.com.  

About Husker Harvest Days

Husker Harvest Days, the world's largest totally irrigated working farm show, takes place annually in Grand Island, Nebraska. This premier Western Corn Belt agricultural event showcases cutting-edge innovations for both crop and livestock producers, featuring the popular BEEF Showcase and extensive live field demonstrations. The three-day event connects agricultural professionals with hundreds of exhibitors while supporting the community through local partnerships. For more information, visit www.HuskerHarvestDays.com.

Media Contacts:   

Curt Arens, Senior Editor, Nebraska Farmer

P: 605-660-3522 E: curt.arens@farmprogress.com 

Mike Wilson, Sr. Executive Editor, Farm Progress

P: 217-620-6218 E: mike.wilson@farmprogress.com