Water

All Water Content

a flooded wheat field with some emerging wheat plants.

Wet Feet in Wheat

Given the widespread wet conditions present this spring, there are many areas in winter wheat fields with both ponding and saturated (or waterlogged) soils. Producers may want to consider soil conditions and evaluate extended weather forecasts when deciding whether or not to retain a winter wheat this spring.

Grassed waterway leading to a large watershed in the distance.

Impacts in Water & Cropping Systems

SDSU Extension’s agronomy team works to boost farmers’ yields and profits by providing access to research-based information, resources and local agronomic information.

A brown cow grazing near a frozen creek.

Icebreakers: Winter Water Supply

Cold weather creates a challenge for producers who house their herds in areas where there are limited water resources and available natural water sources may be frozen over.

Sushant Mehan smiles at the camera. He is wearing a black suit and striped tie

SDSU Extension welcomes new water specialist

November 28, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to welcome Sushant Mehan as a new Water Resource Engineer Specialist and assistant professor.

Numerous winter-killed fish along the shoreline of a lake.

The Most-Common Cause of Fish Kills in South Dakota

There are many ways for fish kills to occur in freshwater lakes, but the most-common cause by far is dissolved oxygen depletion. Learn about some of the seasonal and environmental factors that can lead to oxygen depletion.

Hand holding a TDS meter in a water container.

Interpretation of Water Analysis for Livestock Suitability

Fact sheet to help decipher both the results of a “quick test” and laboratory analysis for livestock suitability.

A young man collecting a water sample from a pond using a water dipper.

Performing a Field Test for Livestock Water Quality

Learn how to use some simple, readily available tools that can help analyze the quality of your livestock water sources right in the field.

A glass of water being filled from a kitchen sink tap.

COVID-19 and Home Water Use

There have been questions regarding spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 through drinking water.

collection of emergency food and supplies in a raised cabinet

Food Safety: During & After Flooding

In the event of flooding, having a plan in place for food safety is beneficial. Knowing how to determine if food is safe and how to keep food safe will help reduce the potential for food waste and reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Here are some tips to keeping your food safe.

Two producers observing an in-field cattle watering unit.

Water Monitoring Systems for Livestock

Depending on animal locations, checking water tanks can require hours of labor and significant fuel costs for remote pastures. Water monitoring systems offer producers a convenient way to check the status of the water sources remotely.