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Drought Planning Resources

In this episode of Cattle HQ, we focus on taking stock of current growing conditions and making key operational adjustments to manage the cattle herd and forage resources in challenging weather conditions including drought-stricken areas of the Midwest.

A mother jogging down a paved country trail next to a child riding an orange bicycle.

SDSU Extension invites public to join Virtual 5K event

June 02, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension is inviting the public to join its virtual 5K, and to register for the 605 Igniting Change event.

Cattle grazing a high-diversity, native pasture.

How to Test Hay and Forage for Nitrate Levels Using Test Strips

Step-by-step instructions for how to complete Nitrate testing for forage and hay.

Rows of starter plants in containers

SDSU Extension welcomes new native plant field specialist

June 02, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to welcome Allison Dollen as a new Native Plant Field Specialist.

Small group of cattle at the SDSU Cow-Calf Education and Research Facility.

Basis for Lighter-Weight Feeder Cattle

With higher overall price levels, the price differences across cattle of different weights have also increased. As a result, producers may want to revisit some pricing rules reflected in price slides and in basis levels for lighter-weight feeder cattle.

Lake water with abundant blue-green algae throughout.

What is the “a” in Chlorophyll-a?

Have you ever heard the term "chlorophyll a" used in reference to a lake's blue-green algae content? From type "a" to type "f," learn how different types of chlorophyll impact lakes and aquatic environments.

Wind carrying a cloud of topsoil over a dry, bare field.

2026 Growing Season: Forecasted dry weather and the implications on postemergence herbicide activity

Weather cannot be controlled, but there are variables we can control to help increase the effectiveness of postemergence herbicides during drought conditions.

State 4-H Ambassador sitting at a table filling out an application

Become a State 4-H Ambassador

Curious about what it takes to become a South Dakota State 4-H Ambassador? View the position descriptions, term timeline, and application process.

Weather station at the edge of a large, open pasture.

Drought

Stay ahead of drought impacts with SDSU Extension's timely climate updates, business insights and research-tested management tips.

Cattle stand next to a watering hole in a pasture

SDSU Extension hosts drought meetings on June 17

June 04, 2026

SDSU Extension will hold free regional drought meetings on June 17, 2026, in response to current moderate to severe drought conditions affecting agriculture in southern South Dakota.