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Soil Management

All Soil Management Content

Soil scientist conducting an in-field soil test.

Soil Carbon Cycle and Laboratory Measurements of Carbon Related to Soil Health

Carbon is one the most-important elements in agricultural soils. Take in-depth look at how carbon is understood, measured, and managed to benefit soil health in agricultural production.

A spade stands upright in a corn field with tall, green corn stalks around it

SDSU Extension to host soil management conference in December

November 08, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension will host the 2023 Managing Soil: Maximizing Profit conference on Dec. 12.

a stretching field of green corn plants

Comparing Yield Goal and Maximum Return to Nitrogen Prediction Methods for Determining Corn Economic Optimal Nitrogen Rates

Fact sheet evaluating the accuracy of different corn nitrogen recommendation approaches with their advantages and disadvantages.

Man using a dynamic cone penetrometer.

Soil Penetration Resistance as a Soil Health Indicator

Soil penetration resistance is an indicator of soil compaction and the force required for root growth through the soil. It can be measured in the field using a tool called a penetrometer.

A soil coring device that has been pounded into ground. Next to it are trimmed samples in rings used to measure soil bulk density.

Bulk Density is an Indicator of Soil Health

Bulk density is a commonly measured soil property that can indicate how compacted a soil is and can be used to calculate the percent pore space in the soil.

a man in a suit and tie smiles for the camera

SDSU Extension welcomes new soil health expert to Watertown office

September 18, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to welcome Hans Klopp as a new Soil Health Field Specialist.

Gardener holding a handful of healthy soil.

Soil Health and Why it Matters

Investing in soil health will benefit your garden or farm for generations to come. Learn how to actively manage the physical, chemical, and biological properties of your soil to optimize its long-term health.

Corn field with soil salinity problem.

SDSU Extension hosting Every Acre Counts Bus Tour on Aug. 24

August 14, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension will host a bus tour on Aug. 24 highlighting precision agricultural strategies used by farmers to mitigate saline soils while also maximizing productivity and profitability.

Tractor pulling manure a spreader through a harvested crop field.

Using Feedlot Manure to Reduce Crop Production Costs

Livestock waste can be a valuable source of crop nutrients when correctly managed. Taking a strategic approach to feedlot manure application can increase the value of manure as part of your overall system.

a closeup of a row of green plants

SDSU Extension to feature Midland growers at new Cover Crop and Soil Health Field Day

August 07, 2023

SDSU Extension is hosting a Cover Crop and Soil Health Field Day for fruit and vegetable producers from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. CDT on Aug. 14 at Cedar Creek Gardens near Midland, South Dakota.