Skip to main content

Search

Black and white scan of Cottonwood Field Station soil map.

Range Roundup: Long-Term Grazing Records Can Guide Future Management

For nearly 80 years, researchers at the Cottonwood Field Station have monitored how different stocking rates have shaped plant communities. Today, these records are being compared with modern data to help us better understand how rangelands respond to long-term grazing management.

apples and bananas sitting on a plate next to a set of blue hand weights and a body measuring tape

4-H Health Project

Today’s world is very health conscious with limitless choices and opportunities. You might ask what can I learn and pursue in the health project area?

Two ranchers in a pasture reviewing a mangement plan.

The Importance of Math in the Art of Grazing

It might seem a bit silly to check in on your stocking rate calculations, but it is something that is undoubtedly worth your time, whether you’re a seasoned rancher or you’re still trying to get your feet under you.

Rye test plots

Rye Variety Trial Results

2025 Rye Variety Trial Results in South Dakota.

Silage pile covered with tarp and weighted down with tires.

Silage Covering and Harvest Management to Maximize Feed Value

Covering silage piles is critically important to control nutrient loss in silage, but what covering strategies result in the best-quality feed? Learn what a recent SDSU Extension research project found out.

Husband and wife reviewing financial resources.

Resources for Consumers Whose Income is Interrupted

An interruption in income can make a well-planned spending plan a useless financial tool. If you do not have a savings buffer to get you through an income interruption, there are resources available to get your spending plan back on track.

South Dakota State University on-site wean-to-finish barn.

Impact of Swine Manure on Soil Organic Carbon

This fact sheet summarizes what research shows about how swine manure affects SOC and what that means for field-level decisions.

South Dakota State University on-site wean-to-finish barn.

Best Practices for Swine Manure Application

This fact sheet summarizes research-based practices to help producers, consultants, and conservation professionals make practical decisions that protect both productivity and stewardship.

Two pastures side-by-side. The left has minimal snow capture due to reduced plant residue. The right has ample snow capture throughout due to increased plant residue.

Winter Pasture Report: What’s your plan for spring?

Widespread drought conditions persist across the upper Great Plains into the beginning of 2025. During drought conditions, it is extremely important for producers to regularly assess precipitation and forage resources so they can manage livestock accordingly.

Waterhemp growing at he edge of a soybean field nearing harvest.

Checking Weed Control at Harvest

With harvest now in full swing, don’t forget to look at your fall weed control. What are the weeds that are left in your crop? Do you know what weeds they are? Is there a weed that you do not know?