SDSU Extension

Latest Recommendations

A prescribed burning taking place in a field.

Prescribed Fire

SDSU Extension works collaboratively with state and federal partners to educate landowners about the use of fire as a grassland management tool.

Accessible bathroom with a step-in shower and low-clearance sink.

Home Modification Planning Guides

The guides on this page are about housing for people who have disabilities.

Hand tapping a button on a tablet computer to apply for a credit freeze.

Why and How to Freeze Your Credit

A credit or security freeze prevents creditors from accessing your credit file and prevents others from opening an account in your name. Consumers can freeze and unfreeze their credit records for free by working with the three nationwide reporting companies.

Ranch family examining a red calving record book near a herd of cattle.

Calving Records 101

Complete and well-maintained calving records provide valuable information that can be used to improve and evaluate operations. Learn some expert tips for getting your records off to a great start this calving season.

Three people smile for the camera with bison and rolling hills in the background

Bringing happy, healthy bison back to the Great Plains

There are approximately 400,000 bison across North America, down from 30 to 60 million prior to the 1860s. South Dakota has the largest bison population in the U.S. with nearly 40,000, and Martin hopes to see it keep rising.

Two pastures side-by-side. The left has minimal snow capture due to reduced plant residue. The right has ample snow capture throughout due to increased plant residue.

Winter Pasture Report: What’s your plan for spring?

Widespread drought conditions persist across the upper Great Plains into the beginning of 2025. During drought conditions, it is extremely important for producers to regularly assess precipitation and forage resources so they can manage livestock accordingly.

Our Impact

As the outreach arm of our state’s land grant, South Dakota State University, SDSU Extension is able to provide farmers, ranchers, agri-business people, communities, families and youth with the research-based information they need to succeed.