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Livestock

All Livestock Content

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

Comparing Feeder Types in the Wean-to-Finish Barn

The differences in pig performance are important to consider in choosing feeder type between dry feeders and wet-dry feeders. Learn some key findings from South Dakota State University's wean-to-finish barn.

SDSU’s off-site wean-to-finish barn.

Phytobiotics-based Product Found to Impact Bacterial Populations in Gut of Weaned Pigs

As additions to feed or water, phytobiotics have shown promise in alleviating some of the negative effects of weaning on piglet health and growth performance.

Professional headshot of Patricia Villamediana

SDSU Extension Welcomes New Dairy Field Specialist

April 05, 2022

Patricia Villamediana recently joined SDSU Extension as a dairy field specialist and will work to improve agricultural profitability and growth of the dairy industry through research-based programming and resources.

Color-coded drought monitor map of South Dakota. As of March 22, northwest to southeast South Dakota are facing severe drought to abnormally dry conditions, while the northeast is under normal conditions.

Agronomic Considerations for Moisture Deficit Conditions

The current soil moisture stress in South Dakota could be more pronounced than we have seen in last few years. If this continues, cropping decisions may need to be adjusted for the upcoming growing season.

small group of cattle at hay feeder

Herd Management: Keep or Cull During a Drought?

Drought forces unexpected changes so it’s critical to have a strategy to keep only the “right” females that will benefit the operation.

Herd of black-beef cattle being moved in drought-stressed rangeland.

Trigger Dates: Critical Decisions for Drought Management

Having a drought plan in place ensures that you can overcome the inhibitions surrounding a drought response, the basis of which is figuring out trigger dates.

Group of black cattle near a stock dam that’s drying up under drought conditions.

Drought Planning

A drought plan will be an essential component to your overall grazing plan, as it provides guidance in making decisions during critical times when forage may be lacking.

Participants inspecting a rangeland area during the South Dakota Rangeland Days event.

38th Annual Rangeland and 17th Annual Soils Days Set for June 14 and 15 in Murdo

March 28, 2022

Rangeland and Soils Days offer a unique opportunity for youth and adults alike to learn more about South Dakota’s natural resources.

SDSU cheerleaders showcasing SDSU-themed lamb pelts for auction.

South Dakota State University Raises Money for Scholarships at 30th Annual Lamb Bonanza

February 25, 2022

Lamb pelts were auctioned off at the 30th Annual Lamb Bonanza basketball game, generating more than $9,000 to support undergraduate scholarships for animal science students and student athletes.

Small flock of sheep grazing in a pasture.

Supplementation Considerations for Ewes Grazing Dormant Winter Pastures and Rangelands

A recent collaboration between South Dakota State University and the University of Wyoming addresses the many questions surrounding grazing supplementation for sheep as forages enter dormancy.