SDSU West River Research and Extension
711 N Creek Dr
Rapid City, SD 57703
Hector supports the citizens of South Dakota in his role as an Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Livestock Grazing Specialist located in Rapid City.
Ranchers know that cattle need clean drinking water every day. But the water already inside grass is easy to overlook. As grass grows older and dries out during summer, cattle may need more water from tanks or other sources.
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing agriculture, but its value on the farm depends on whether it can help producers make better decisions. The National Animal Nutrition Program has been working to turn AI-based approaches into practical tools that can help livestock producers reduce feed losses and improve profitability.
For swine systems, the relationship between feed and manure is especially important. Feed management, manure recycling, and conservation practices can work together to improve nutrient use efficiency and support long-term soil function.
