Soil Management

All Soil Management Content

South Dakota State University on-site wean-to-finish barn.

Impact of Swine Manure on Soil Organic Carbon

This fact sheet summarizes what research shows about how swine manure affects SOC and what that means for field-level decisions.

Best Practices for Swine Manure Application

This fact sheet summarizes research-based practices to help producers, consultants, and conservation professionals make practical decisions that protect both productivity and stewardship.

Using Swine Manure Phosphorus More Efficienlty in South Dakota Cropping Systems

This fact sheet explains how feeding strategies, especially the use of low-phytate corn and related diet adjustments, can reduce phosphorus excretion in swine manure.

Swine Manure and Nitrate Leaching

This fact sheet explains how nitrate leaching occurs, why swine manure increases risk under certain conditions, and what producers can do to keep nitrogen where crops can use it.

Heavy Metals in Swine Manure

This fact sheet explains what heavy metals are, how they enter swine manure, how they behave in soil, and what practical steps producers can take to reduce long-term risks.

A man in a yellow shirt kneels in a pasture with a group of youth and teenagers standing in a circle around him

A Guide to South Dakota's Rangeland and Soil Days

Fact sheet to provide an overview of the South Dakota Rangeland and Soil Days program. This also includes detailed guidelines and contest information.

SDSU Extension Tile Drainage Economics Calculator

Calculator for farmers who are interested in evaluating the decision to install tile drainage from an economic perspective.

A corn planter planting seeds into wheat residue in a no-till field.

The Economic Advantages of No-Till: Diesel Fuel

While no-till and conservation systems are often discussed for their soil health benefits, the economic advantages are becoming increasingly important in today’s farm economy, particularly when it comes to fuel costs.

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.

An oats field with numerous small rows of green, oat grass emerged throughout.

Oat Nitrogen Fertilizer Rate Guidelines: Do we use the yield goal or maximum return to nitrogen approach?

Nitrogen is an essential plant nutrient commonly applied to oat crops. It is important to apply an appropriate rate of nitrogen fertilizer to oats, as too little can reduce economic return, while too much can lead to potential negative environmental effects.