Natural Resources

SDSU Extension booth at 2023 Dakotafest to feature livestock, soil and range experts

August 07, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension experts will be at the 2023 Dakotafest to provide information on a range of agricultural and economic issues, from the use of prescribed fire to livestock to weed and soil management.

Holistic Ranch Management Helps With Economic and Climate Resilience

Holistic ranch management offers ways to think about ranching as part of a diverse ecological system. Learn how two South Dakota operations have leveraged it to generate multiple income streams from shared resources.

Why Should Fire Departments Help With Prescribed Burns?

From establishing fuel breaks that can contain future wildfires to providing valuable training for fire department volunteers, learn some of the many benefits of involving your local fire department in a prescribed burn.

What To Do About Chiggers

Chiggers are a persistent summer arthropod pest that many people want to get rid of in their lawns. While it is understandable that people want to eliminate them, the best defense against chiggers is being prepared before going outside.

Beneficial Pollinators: Honey Bees and Bicolored Striped-Sweat Bee

With temperatures increasing in South Dakota, expect to see an increase of beneficial pollinators searching for blooming plants. Learn about two important pollinators, the honey bee and the native bicolored striped-sweat bee.

Black Grass Bugs May Cause Issues if Drought Persists

In western South Dakota, black grass bugs are a common spring forage pest that can cause considerable damage during periods of drought. Learn how to monitor and manage this pest to protect your forages this spring.

South Dakota Grasshopper Prediction for 2022

Data from the 2021 USDA Adult Grasshopper Survey of South Dakota suggests that grasshopper populations may continue to be problem in parts of central and western South Dakota during the spring of 2022.

SDSU Extension to host 2023 South Dakota Climate Summit

July 14, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension will host a South Dakota Climate Summit on Aug. 1-2, 2023, at the Arrowwood Resort in Oacoma, South Dakota.

Utilize Targeted Grazing for Firebreaks

Targeted grazing incorporated into an overall rotational grazing plan can be an excellent strategy to reduce an area's available fuel load and create a soft, or green, firebreak.

Be on the Lookout: Ventenata

Ventenata is an invasive annual grass that's an emerging threat to South Dakota rangelands due to its ability to exclude desired native species. Learn how to identify, report, and manage it before it becomes a problem in your area.