Search

Herd of cattle grazing in a pasture rotation.

General Principals of Grazing Management

Grazing involves a number of variables, including land carrying capacity, type and distribution of the livestock, water distribution and number of pastures. A combination of proper grazing techniques and grassland management will improve harvest efficiency and lower production costs.

Two ranchers examining a fencline along a grassland property.

Designing a Grazing Program

The development of a successful grazing management program begins with a mental inventory and an observation of what is happening that you would like to change. Next, consider what you are willing to do to make that change.

Eastern South Dakota Water Conference participants.

Registration Open for the 2022 Eastern South Dakota Water Conference

September 21, 2022

Registration is open for the 2022 Eastern South Dakota Water Conference to be held on Wednesday, Oct. 12, at the McCrory Gardens Education and Visitor Center in Brookings, South Dakota.

Headshot of Geb Bastian

SDSU Extension Welcomes New Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Nutrition and Health Specialist

November 15, 2022

SDSU Extension is excited to welcome Graham (Geb) Bastian as a new Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Nutrition and Health Specialist.

Multi-generation family reviewing estate documents.

Trusts Explained: What They Are and Why You Need One

Trusts are powerful estate planning tools that help individuals protect assets, provide for loved ones, and ensure their wishes are carried out.

Three women in green jackets standing in front of a building

South Dakota State 4-H Ambassadors Attend National 4-H Summit on Healthy Living and 4-H Healthy Habits Conference

March 23, 2020

Three South Dakota State 4-H Ambassadors joined other teen leaders from across the country at the 4-H Healthy Habits Conference and National 4-H Summit on Healthy Living to learn how to be advocates for promoting healthy lifestyle choices in their communities.

A large group of people stands on the Capitol steps and smiles for the camera

SDSU Extension 4-H youth enjoy day at the Capitol

March 24, 2026

More than 75 youth and supporters enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about state history and government during the 2026 4-H Capitol Day on Feb. 20.

sun rising over South Dakota field

Strengthening the Heartland

Strengthening the Heartland (STH) developed through the collaborative efforts of faculty from SDSU Extension and North Dakota State University Extension. With generous grant support from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, STH is dedicated to providing services that prevent opioid misuse in rural communities across the Dakotas.

Mother and daughter reviewing information on a tablet with grandmother.

Where Can Family Caregivers Turn for Help?

Family caregivers often find they do not know where to turn for help and support during their caregiving journey. The following resources provide information and organizations that may be useful to anyone who is a family caregiver.

Small group of cattle grazing a well-managed grassland area.

Grazing Systems

According to rangeland and pasture specialists, there are four basic types of grazing systems, including: continuous grazing, deferred rotational grazing, rest rotational grazing and management-intensive grazing.