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4-H, Special Foods, Youth boy and girl cooking in kitchen, State Fair

Events & Opportunities

At the state level, 4-H opportunities are generally broken into the three Cs: camps, competitions  and conferences.

A person holds a sheep to their chest and uses shears to shear the sheep's wool off it's stomach

SDSU Extension to host Sheep Shearing School

August 26, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension will teach the skill of sheep shearing to current and prospective producers this fall.

Black bull in a pen.

Bought the Bull. Now What?

It is always best to be prepared rather than playing catch up in cattle production, and the addition of a new herd bull is no exception. Learn some expert tips to get new herd bulls off to a great start.

Rancher and researcher in a hay shed discussing information on a laptop computer.

Understanding Feed Analysis Reports

Well-developed rations begin with knowing information about each of the feeds utilized within them. Understanding the components of a feed analysis report can help.

dairy beef steers eating out of a feed bunk

Dairy Beef Crosses in the Feedyard

Both feedlot producers and dairymen have a unique set of challenges along with opportunities when it comes to raising and feeding dairy beef cross animals.

A white mineral supplement tub placed in a pasture, where several black cattle are grazing.

The Mineral Supplementation Puzzle: Pre-made Mixes Vs. Single Ingredients

Minerals are an important piece to the cattle herd nutrition puzzle. Supplementation method is important to examine, as mineral supplementation is another cost in maintaining a herd.

Black angus calf resting in a pen.

What the Research Says About Pain Control at Castration

Pain management at castration is a topic that will continue to come up as we focus on animal welfare. Research is being done to determine what pain management strategy works best for the castration of beef bulls.

Two ranchers reviewing a checklist in a farm office.

Checklist to Pasture Turnout

When preparing to turn your herd out to pasture, there are a few management decisions that need to be made. Having a simple checklist is an easy way to make sure you are prepared.

Black angus cow with calf in a well-kept cattle pen.

Are Ionophores the Key for Managing Coccidiosis in Calves?

Ionophores are feed additives commonly used in cattle diets to increase feed efficiency and growth.

Male and female producer examining a small group of mixed cattle in a pole barn.

How Does Your Herd Measure Up?

Female herd longevity is important for beef producers. Since foot and udder problems can be genetic, tracking scores can help producers make informed management decisions for herd females.