SDSU Extension works collaboratively with local conservation districts, the natural resources conservation service, and the South Dakota Section of the Society for Range Management to facilitate the annual Rangeland and Soil Days event for youth. Participants will gain hands-on experience in understanding rangeland resources and a sense of stewardship in natural resource management.
Rangeland Days is for youth age 8-18 and educates them on South Dakota’s most-threatened natural resource – grasslands. In the Rangeland Days contest, students will learn plant identification, ecological sites and how to determine suitability for cattle and wildlife. Youth can compete in three categories: display, talk and judging. There are four age divisions: New Rangers (ages 8-10), Wranglers (11-13), Scouts (first-time attendees ages 14-18) and Go Getters (youth 14-18 with previous experience).
Soil Days is for 14-18-year-olds and educates them on one of South Dakota’s most important resources – soil. In the Soil Days contest, students learn about soil texture and types, factors that limit soil health, land management recommendations, and understanding suitability for building infrastructure.
Judging Guides
A Guide to South Dakota's Rangeland and Soils Days
Fact sheet to provide an overview of the South Dakota Rangeland and Soil Days program. This also includes detailed guidelines and contest information.
Judging South Dakota Rangelands for Livestock and Wildlife Values
This guide is for high school age students to prepare for range judging contests in South Dakota.
