SDSU Extension

COVID-19

SDSU Extension, under the guidance of South Dakota State University, continues to serve South Dakotans while balancing the safety of our staff and the public.

Learn more

Flood

There is potential again this year for flood damage to homes, businesses and agriculture operations.

Learn more

Farm Stress

A healthy response to farm stressors involves paying attention and determining coping strategies that are useful.

Learn more

Agriculture

Both livestock and crops are essential to South Dakota's agricultural industry.

red barn with a white shed in front of it and trees in the background

4-H

4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization, involving young people in urban, suburban and rural communities. 4-H fosters an innovative, “learn by doing” approach with proven results.

fruit and vegetable garden with raised beds

Garden & Yard

Flowers, vegetables, trees, and lawns - learn how to improve your landscape, control weeds and insects and bring the bounty of your garden to your family’s dinner table.

a variety of bright colored fruits and vegetables arranged on a table

Food

Linking nutrition education, physical activity and food preparation is a great way to help families and children learn how to eat healthier and improve wellness.

a dad and mom with three children and a yellow lab walking through short grass

Family

Our programs are designed to improve the quality of life for individuals and families, and the communities in which they live, work, and play.

Deadwood, South Dakota buildings with Black Hills in the background

Community

Resources to support communities, organizations, leaders and businesses.

Sign Up for SDSU Extension Newsletters

Don't miss out on the latest news, have it delivered to you.

Bigger Cattle. Warmer Weather. What Can Go Wrong?

The disruptions in the beef processing sector caused by COVID-19 continue to interfere with the orderly marketing of finished cattle. While we all hope that the situation is resolved quickly, the reality is that because the shipment of so many harvest-ready cattle has been delayed, there will be increased numbers of heavier cattle on feed for the foreseeable future.

Beef Cattle, Animal Health, Climate, Farm Business Management

man holding a small pile of soil in his hands

Recommended Soil Sampling Methods and Instructions

Proper collection of soil samples is extremely important as the accuracy of the soil test depends on the quality of the soil sample provided to the lab.

Soil Fertility, Soil Health

Preservation

SDSU Extension provides established and trusted research-based food preservation information.

Canning, Freezing Food, Dehydrating Food

various white charts and bar graphs on a blue background

Financial Measures for South Dakota Farms

Farm and ranch businesses have a sizeable investment in equipment, buildings, land, and livestock. These investments require their owners and managers to remain knowledgeable about the financial condition of their business. The information to calculate measures of financial performance can be found in their farm record books or accounting system.

Crop Management, Farm Business Management, Markets/Prices