Water

All Water Content

An aerial view of the town of Mobridge with the Missouri River in the background.

A Strategic Community-Based Survey of Water Resource Management in South Dakota

Understanding how residents value water is critical for effective resource management, and your insights can help us better understand community values and inform future strategies for sustainable water management across the state.

Aerial view of South Dakota wetlands.

Prairie Pothole Wetlands: Small Basins, Big Impact

The benefits of prairie wetlands extend far beyond wildlife. These wetlands filter pollutants and excess nutrients from agricultural and urban runoff, trap sediment, recharge groundwater, and store floodwater.

Group of college students sitting around a table having a discussion
Oct 14

South Dakota Student Water Conference

The South Dakota Student Water Conference will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the University Student Union (1421 Student Union Ln, Brookings, SD 57007).

A group of people listening to a presentation
Oct 15

Eastern South Dakota Water Conference

The Eastern South Dakota Water Conference will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the McCrory Gardens Education and Visitor Center (631 22nd Ave., Brookings, SD 57006).

Well-managed grassland area adjacent to a wetland.

Private Property vs. Public Access: Managing Non-Meandering Waters in South Dakota's Prairie Pothole Region

Fact sheet on managing non-meandering waters in South Dakota's prairie pothole region.

an image of outdoor weather monitoring equipment in a field

Climate and Weather

View resources to predict, prepare and recover from weather-related events year-round, including the latest drought and flood information.

A field of no-till soybeans and corn.

SDSU Extension Tile Drainage Economics Calculator

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

Illustrated diagram of the freshwater mussel lifecycle. For a detailed description, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

The Importance of Fish for Native Freshwater Mussel Reproduction

To reproduce, freshwater mussels rely on fish to carry their young into new areas and disperse them when they are old enough. By conserving suitable fish habitat, it also allows us to indirectly conserve mussels by providing necessary resources for mussels to reproduce.

Young tomato plants surrounded by organic mulch in a no-till garden.

Microbial Water Testing for South Dakota Producers

Microbial water testing is important for produce growers to know the quality of their water to help ensure the safety of the fruits, vegetables, and herbs they produce.

Grassed waterway leading to a large watershed in the distance.

Northern Plains Water Voice

SDSU Extension, in collaboration with its partners, will provide an educational video series on the issues and topics that impact water resources in South Dakota and the surrounding region.