Nebraska Launches Nation’s First Methane-Powered Tractors for Ag Students
LINCOLN, Neb. – The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is revolutionizing agricultural education with the arrival of two state-of-the-art New Holland T6.180 methane-powered tractors, marking a milestone in sustainable farming technology. Donated by CNH Industrial through the University of Nebraska Foundation, these tractors are the first 100% methane-powered production models in the world and valued at nearly $287,240 each.
The tractors will be deployed at the university’s Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC) near Mead, where students and faculty will gain hands-on experience with clean energy machinery designed to reduce emissions and increase farm profitability.
Andy Dozler, CNH manufacturing engineering manager and a Nebraska alumnus, facilitated the donation, emphasizing the university’s role in preparing next-generation farmers for alternative power solutions. “The goal was to place this advanced equipment in the hands of students for real-world use,” Dozler said.
The bright blue tractors can run on methane from biodigesters that convert plant waste and livestock manure into fuel, but initially will operate on compressed natural gas at the university. This new technology highlights Nebraska’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and innovation in farm equipment.
Doug Zalesky, director of ENREEC, described the tractors as “an incredible addition” to their research efforts, benefiting students, producers, and the public alike.
Nebraska Basketball Rewards Coaching Staff After Best Season Ever
LINCOLN, Neb. – Following a record-breaking 28-7 basketball season, Nebraska’s head coach Fred Hoiberg announced contract extensions for key assistants and general manager, placing full trust in the staff that propelled the Cornhuskers to their first-ever NCAA Tournament victory and a Sweet 16 appearance.
Hoiberg, named Associated Press national coach of the year, elevated Nate Loenser to associate head coach and signed him to a two-year contract extension through the 2028-29 season, with an annual salary of $525,000. Loenser oversees defense coordination.
Ernie Zeigler, responsible for offense and game planning, received a one-year extension through 2027-28 at $420,000. Pat Monaghan, focused on player development and recruiting, was extended through 2027-28 with a salary of $350,000. Additionally, general manager Luca Virgilio secured a contract through 2027-28 at $350,000. Virgilio manages roster and retention, key to sustaining team success.
Hoiberg praised the staff’s vital contributions to building a winning culture unseen in Nebraska basketball’s history. “The work they pour into our players is evident in their development,” Hoiberg said, underlining efforts that helped Nebraska climb to No. 14 in the final AP Top 25 rankings.
What’s Next for Nebraska Athletics
Softball fans are invited this Sunday at Bowlin Stadium in Lincoln for a free NCAA selection-show watch party starting at 5 p.m., where the No. 2 Nebraska softball team will discover its NCAA Tournament opponents live. Nebraska will open Big Ten Tournament play at Maryland’s College Park stadium on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the agriculture community and sustainability advocates nationwide will watch Nebraska’s adoption of methane-powered farming technology closely, as it signals a potential shift toward cleaner energy use in American agriculture.
This impactful mix of sports excellence and cutting-edge research cements Nebraska’s role as a national leader in both arenas, offering a glimpse at how innovation and athletics can drive community pride and environmental progress.
