The 2026 Water and Integrated Cropping Systems (WICS) Conference was held March 3 in the Great Plains Room at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln East Campus Union, bringing together researchers, educators, Extension professionals and stakeholders under the theme, “Tying Things Together.” Participants were challenged to reflect on an essential questions: “Are we doing things that the stakeholders of UNL see value in?” and, “Can we increase critical thinking?”
The collective response was clear: “Yes, we can.”
The theme reflected the core mission of WICS: integrating research, teaching and Extension to address complex agricultural challenges across Nebraska’s diverse landscapes. The conference served as a collaborative forum to strengthen connections, share insights and identify areas of alignment that support producers, communities and the state’s agricultural future.
Presentations covered a broad range of topics, including the impact of the Wheat Stem Sawfly, advancements in the TAPS program, applications of artificial intelligence in agriculture, teaching and experiential learning opportunities, crop modeling innovations and the Master Irrigator program. Each session included a question-and-answer period, fostering meaningful dialogue and deeper understanding across disciplines.
Discussions emphasized the importance of identifying what is truly needed across research, education and outreach to fully support agricultural systems, Nebraska farmers and stakeholders statewide and beyond. By strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and focusing on shared initiatives, WICS continues to advance solutions that are practical, innovative and impactful.
The 2026 conference reaffirmed WICS’ commitment to tying together expertise and perspectives to build a stronger, more resilient agricultural future.
