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A pile of sheep fleeces ready for sorting.

Considerations for Increasing Wool Value

The wool market continually rewards those who emphasize high-quality production. Efforts to increase wool clip value can be made through regular management practices and proper wool clip preparation at shearing.

A green cover crop mixture grows on a calm day; mainly consisting of oats and peas.

Buying or Selling Oats for a Cover Crop? Be Sure to Follow the Rules

As a challenging 2019 row crop planting season wraps up in South Dakota, many producers are looking to plant cover crops on unplanted acres. One popular cool-season grass cover crop is oats. Most oats in South Dakota are grown as certified varieties, and it is important to be aware of the legal ramifications behind purchasing oat seed for use as a cover crop.

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.

A soybean field with notisable yellowing and browning on a section of plants.

Replanting Considerations

Every season weather events such as hail or flooding can damage or destroy previously planted crops in all or in portions of fields. In May or even early June, many producers will replant these areas. As the end of June approaches, the window for replanting narrows and producers may want to do a more careful evaluation of whether or not to replant.

soybean plants showing difference in pods

Soybean Planting Population: A Review

There have been reports in recent years that agronomists in states such as Iowa, Nebraska and Wisconsin have observed success when reducing soybean planting populations.

Group of women sitting around a table at the Power of Women as AgVocates conference

SDSU Extension hosting conference for women in agriculture March 1-2 in Fort Pierre

February 05, 2024

The Power of Women as AgVocates Conference is March 1-2, 2024, at the Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center Museum in Fort Pierre. Registration is $75.

A family farm with the sun setting in the background.

The Economic Impact of Cooperatives in South Dakota

This report estimates the economic impact of cooperatives in South Dakota in 2022. The report’s estimates are based on an input-output analysis from a South Dakota State University (SDSU) survey of cooperatives operating in South Dakota conducted in June of 2023.

Co-workers having a discussion around a laptop.

First Class Group Dynamics for Boards

Even the best boards can go off track due to group dynamics. Learn some expert tips for establishing first-class group dynamics by understanding the strengths and personality styles of each board member.

A husband and wife displaying fresh produce at a farmer's market stand.

Local Foods Legislation Introduced

Consumers who want to know more about where and how their food is raised are creating a bigger voice nationally. The increasing sales of local foods provides a bright spot for agriculture and a way to bring young farmers into agricultural production.

two young women smiling and sitting at a table taking notes

Sample Questions to Ask a Current Business Owner/Operator

If you are thinking of starting a business, it makes sense to ask questions of current business owners in similar fields to give you a sense of owning and operating a business yourself.