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SDSU Extension

Latest Recommendations

Canada thistle growing in a pasture.

Noxious and Pasture Weed Plot Data Report

Data books to use as a reference to select appropriate herbicide(s) for noxious and pasture weed

Mother and toddler doing a learning activity on a tablet computer.

Embracing Technology to Teach Early Literacy Skills

Research suggests that learning happens when children can use multiple senses, such as sight, sound, and touch. With technology, parents, caregivers, and educators can nurture reading skills in new, exciting ways!

Person carving a pumpkin on an outdoor picnic bench.

Pumpkin Carving Preservation

Pumpkin carvers can use several techniques to slow or prevent the spread of pathogens and help their jack-o’-lanterns last longer. Learn some expert tips for getting the most out of your pumpkin carvings this fall.

Several Hosta shoots ready for division.

Dividing Perennials in the Fall

Dividing overcrowded perennial plants in your landscape can help ensure a long and healthy plant life. Learn which plants benefit from fall division and view a step-by-step guide for getting started!

Installing weather stripping around a window.

Save Money by Winterizing Your Home

Fall is the perfect time to begin preparing your home for colder winter temperatures and the higher energy costs that come with them. Learn some expert tips for preparing your home today!

A bowl of freeze dried strawberries.

Freeze Drying Foods

This publication describes the freeze-drying process to help food entrepreneurs understand the process, highlighting food safety risks and relevant South Dakota regulations.

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.

    216,854

    Individuals Reached

    $5,909,271.50

    Value of Volunteer Hours

    114,099

    Adult and Youth Educational Contacts

Explore Our Impacts

Further Reading

sun rising over South Dakota field

South Dakota Pest Management Guides

The South Dakota Pest Management guides are now available for free. The guides offer recommendations for controlling weeds, insects, and diseases in a variety of South Dakota crops.

stack of coins with faded chart lines showing in the foreground

South Dakota Agricultural Land Market Trends

The 2025 South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension Farm Real Estate Market Survey is the 35th annual survey of agricultural land values and cash rental rates by land use and quality in different regions of South Dakota.

man holding a small pile of soil in his hands

Fertilizer Recommendation Guide

SDSU Extension fertilizer recommendations are based on field research in South Dakota and neighboring states.

A low-gradient prairie river that is very meandering.

Understanding Western South Dakota Prairie Streams

This document provides information and guidance for landowners and land managers in western South Dakota who are managing small intermittent streams.

Upcoming Events

South Dakota State University Swine Education and Research Facility exterior.
Nov 04

SDSU Swine Day

SDSU Swine Day will be held on November 4, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium - Club 71 (1396 Stadium Rd., Brookings, SD 57006).

Group of youth learning from a tour guide at the Sanford Underground Research Facility
Nov 07

Explore Science at the Science at the Sanford Underground Research Facility

SDSU Extension will host an opportunity for youth to explore science with a tour of the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) on Friday, November 7, from 12:00 - 3:00 p.m. This event is part of the Clover Connect series and is open to all youth.

Vegetable garden
Nov 07

South Dakota Local Foods Conference

The South Dakota Local Foods Conference will be held from Friday, November 7 to Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel 1400 8th Ave NW, Aberdeen, SD 57401).

Farmer viewing precision seed application data on a tablet.
Nov 12

Agriculture Cybersecurity Workshop and Seminar

This workshop will highlight results from three collaborative research projects between South Dakota State University and Dakota State University.