Natural Resources
All Natural Resources Content
Current State of Noxious Weed Management in South Dakota
Results of an online survey to determine how South Dakota stakeholders are currently managing noxious weeds.
How Soil Holds Water
Water retention is an important soil property and is related to soil texture, organic matter content, and density.
I heard cicadas are having a big year. Are they coming to South Dakota?
Cicadas are making headlines—specifically the periodical cicadas in Brood XIII and Brood XIX. Both both broods are in the Midwest and are geographically close together. Find out where you can expect to see them this spring.
South Dakota Grasshopper Prediction for 2024
In 2024, grasshoppers are likely to cause problems in areas of South Dakota due to large populations that were present in 2023 and the relatively late first hard freeze date observed in much of the state.
Keep an Eye on Black Grass Bugs This Spring
In South Dakota, black grass bugs are a common spring pest of forage grasses. This native insect first appears in late April and May when grasses emerge from dormancy.
Monitoring Spring Precipitation and Range Conditions
Ideal grazing management balances the acts of grazing and recovery. Monitoring precipitation, soil moisture, and forage production can help producers make informed decisions for their herds and pastures.
Interpreting Soil Tests for Gardening
There are many different chemicals that make up plants. These chemicals include hydrogen, carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, copper, boron, zinc, molybdenum, cobalt, and chlorine.
Conservation Practices Increasing in South Dakota
The recently released Agricultural Census data of 2022 shows that the share of cropland acres under conservation practices has continued to increase in South Dakota.
Accounting for Soil Wetness Prior to Conducting Farm Operations to Minimize Compaction
In the spring many agricultural producers are anxious to get into the field and perform tillage, planting, and chemical applications. However, if field operations are done when the soil is too wet, this can lead to soil compaction.
Online Tools To Help With Rangeland Drought Planning
Learn about some free online tools that producers can use to assess drought conditions, evaluate forage resources, and manage herds through periods of abnormally dry weather.