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Two young swine drinking water in a wean-to-finish facility.

Nursery Pig Performance Impacted by Total Dissolved Solids in Water

Because water quality can vary considerably between production sites, it is important to identify the qualities of water that impact the growth performance of nursery pigs.

A dog in the cab of a pickup truck as rain falls.

Preparing to Keep Pets Safe and Healthy During Flood Conditions

As is the case with providing for the care of livestock and other large animals during flooding, a little forward planning for the care of pets can really pay off when considering the disruptions that spring flooding can bring.

A stock pond with algae blooms developing throughout.

How Important Is Water Quality to Livestock?

Water is the most important nutrient to all livestock animals and is sometimes overlooked. Poor quality water can have a negative effect on growth, reproduction, and general productivity of the animal.

A rancher inspecting the water quality of a small stock pond.

How Do Sulfates in Water Affect Livestock Health?

Poor-quality water will cause an animal to drink less. As a result, they also consume less forage and feed, which leads to weight loss, decreased milk production and lower fertility.

A rancher inspecting the water quality of a small stock pond.

SDSU Extension Offers On-Site Livestock Water Testing

July 01, 2020

SDSU Extension offers on-site livestock water testing services at all SDSU Extension Regional Extension Centers and several SDSU Extension County Offices throughout the state.

A slatted floor with an open area. A hose is running into the open area.

New Technology for an Old Problem

One of the last projects I was involved with as coordinator for the Lower James River Watershed Project was the installation of a deep pit monoslope barn for a feedlot operation near Alexandria, SD. A deep pit confinement barn is a manure storage system that employs slatted flooring with pit manure storage underneath.

rainbow over green pasture with a red barn

South Dakota 4-H Robotics - Getting Started

In South Dakota 4-H Robotics is about much more than the competition. It is about the development of youth through experiential learning. During the program youth are introduced to a variety of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts, but also develop a variety of life skills including, but not limited to: problem solving, communication, and teamwork.

Teen boy and adult male reviewing specimens under magnifying glass.

Science of Agriculture - Quick Start Guide and Topics

Use this guide to navigate the complete Science of Agriculture program; from recruiting team members all the way through celebrating at the end of the season.

A stock pond with noticable blue-green algae bloom throughout.

Blue-Green Algae and Livestock

With warmer temperatures, the conditions are right for blue-green algae blooms. Different species of blue-green algae contain various toxins, which can poison livestock, resulting in rapid death.

Two young males participating in the robotics challenge at the South Dakota State Fair

South Dakota 4-H Robotics & Engineering 2019 Challenge Packet - Recycle Challenge

The South Dakota 4-H Robotics Challenge is an opportunity for youth who have been learning about robotics to demonstrate their learning, celebrate their accomplishments, and interact with others who share an interest in robotics.