Skip to main content

Search

Red combine catching on fire while harvesting corn.

Harvest Time Equipment Fires

Dry weather conditions have led to many equipment fires this harvest season. Learn some expert tips for preparing your equipment and fields for a safe harvest, along with insurance considerations before and after a fire event.

hand holding a head of broccoli

Integrating Living Mulch on Vegetable Farms in South Dakota: 2024 Results

Research report determining the impact of two established clover species on weed suppression, crop growth, and yield of severable brassica species.

bunches of Aronia berries still on a bush

What is This Fruit… And is it Edible?

In mid- to late-summer, we often get the questions: “What kind of fruit is this?” and “Is it edible?” To identify a fruit, it is helpful to know both plant and fruit characteristics: Woody or herbaceous plant? Vining or upright? Do the leaves attach to the stem opposite each other (i.e., paired), or do they alternate from one side of the stem to the other? What size and color are the fruit? Is each fruit’s stem attached directly to the twig, or are they in a cluster that attaches to the twig? And, one question I find often helpful in distinguishing among smaller fruits, does it have a single pit, or are there several seed in each fruit?

Small group of cattle eating plants near a fenceline

Cows Eat Weeds

By utilizing grazing as a means of cultural control, producers have the potential to decrease input expenses while reaping the benefits of inexpensive weed control through animal nutrition.

Farmer sitting inside the cab of a green tractor parked inside a machine shed.

Bookwork, The Missing Management Component: Depreciation Determination and Use

Another component of determining net income is depreciation. This is one component of the Schedule F that many understand the least. Typically, the most use it gets is to minimize income tax through accelerated tax depreciation under section 179.

bales in a field

Forage

SDSU Extension works with forage producers, providing them with access to quick tests, research-based information, and best management practices to help maximize yields and nutritional quality of forages.

Two young woman inspecting plants growing on a vast, open range.

Women on the Range

Women on the Range is a program that is open to all. Through hands-on workshops and peer learning, this program empowers landowners, ranchers, and natural resource managers to build confidence and leadership in grazing and land stewardship.

Producers working cattle in a holding pen.

What Cattle Working Facilities Are the Best?

Research is continually being conducted to better understand cattle behaviors and develop working facilities that work with them. Learn some basic aspects of working facilities so you can design a system that best fits your operation.

Group of farmers strategizing near a field at sunset.

Now is Time to Plan Your Weed Management Strategy for the 2025 Growing Season

As harvest season comes to an end, now is the time to start formulating your weed management plan for next year. Learn some expert tips for getting your operation off to a good start next growing season.

A farmer observing a field at sunset.

Now is the Time to Plan for Noxious Weed Control in 2025

Since most of South Dakota has experienced several frosts, the opportunities for fall herbicide applications are likely over. Now is the time to plan for noxious weed management for both spring and fall tactics.