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Young, female rancher hosting a small tour group.

AgritourismSD Program

AgritourismSD is an intensive educational program designed to provide farmers and ranchers with the opportunity to create an enterprise that utilizes resources in different ways to generate new income streams.

Young producer inspecting meat in a locker with a digital tablet.

So, You Want to Build a Meat Processing Facility? Five Initial Steps to Consider

The need for more small meat processing capacity and skilled workers is not a new problem facing rural America. No matter the reason for wanting to build, here are some steps to consider before diving in.

Dairy employee in winter clothing holding a shovel.

Colder Weather Tips for Midwestern Dairy Farm Employees

Cold and snowy winters are a challenge for dairy workers, especially for those immigrants coming from warmer climates. Informing workers of simple cold weather survival tips is beneficial in improving their quality of life, both at home and the workplace.

Dairy employee in winter clothing holding a shovel.

Consejos Básicos Para los Trabajadores de Lecherías de Cómo Afrontar el Invierno del Medio Oeste

Los inviernos fríos y nevados son un desafío para los trabajadores de las granjas lecheras, especialmente para aquellos inmigrantes que provienen de climas más cálidos donde las temperaturas raramente descienden a un solo dígito.

Color-coded drought monitor map of South Dakota. As of March 22, northwest to southeast South Dakota are facing severe drought to abnormally dry conditions, while the northeast is under normal conditions.

Agronomic Considerations for Moisture Deficit Conditions

The current soil moisture stress in South Dakota could be more pronounced than we have seen in last few years. If this continues, cropping decisions may need to be adjusted for the upcoming growing season.

Variety of frozen meats in a freezer labeled with a red, “Not for Sale” stamp.

Meat (Not) For Sale

Before buying meat from local livestock producers, take the time to understand the rules and regulations of local meat processing.

Instructor and female grant applicant reviewing paperwork at a table.

Writing Your Future: Grant Writing Training

Often community or organizational programs need capital to get them off the ground. Our Writing Your Future grant writing training can be the start to finding that initial investment.

A pile of sheep fleeces ready for sorting.

Considerations for Increasing Wool Value

The wool market continually rewards those who emphasize high-quality production. Efforts to increase wool clip value can be made through regular management practices and proper wool clip preparation at shearing.

Several bales of hay stacked in a shed.

Planning Forage Needs

Inventorying and planning for hay and other forage feed needs is essential every year, especially when production is uncertain due to drought or excess moisture.

Young woman participating in a video conference at a remote work station.

South Dakota Remote Works Training Resumes in September

October 26, 2021

Established in January of 2021, the program is a collaboration with Utah State University's Rural Online Initiative that provides "specialized remote work training to individuals for success in a rapidly changing economy."