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A brochure that says "Energize 2025" sits on a table with red roses laying next to it

SDSU Extension welcomes new Community Vitality Field Specialist

November 24, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to welcome Dacia Hilkemeier as a new Community Vitality Field Specialist.

Group of farm employees and managers gathered at a table.

Building and Retaining a Skilled Agricultural Workforce: Challenges and Strategies

Building a strong, motivated workforce is essential to the future of agriculture. A team from SDSU Extension is exploring the challenges and opportunities facing our agricultural community.

A green road sign that says South Dakota with the sunset in the background

Newcomers Survey

SDSU Extension has launched a newcomer survey to gain a better understanding of the reason that people are moving to South Dakota and will use the results to develop programming efforts to help communities welcome and retain newcomers. 

SDSU Extension Director Karla Trautman, 2021 Inductees Audrey and Art Kneen, SDSU Extension 4-H Youth Safety Field Specialist John Keimig and South Dakota 4-H Program Director Tim Tanner.

4-H Shooting Sports Hall of Fame Honorees

The 4-H Shooting Sports Hall of Fame was started in 2015. It was created to recognize those who played a role in bringing shooting sports to the South Dakota 4-H Program and those who have helped it to grow on the state and regional levels.

A large, wooden barn stands in the background, with tree branches in the foreground

SDSU Extension helps agritourism producers promote their strengths

January 09, 2026

In 2019, Good Earth Farm owners Nancy and Jeff Kirstein had to make a decision. The barn on their Lennox-based property, originally constructed in 1897, needed attention.

a large brick school building

Community Education in South Dakota Schools: Benefits, Strategies, and Opportunities

Three school districts in South Dakota have community education programs. Learn more about the benefits of community education programs and how to support established programs.

sketch of Earl Dailey

Earl Dailey Memorial Endowment Grants

View the criteria and applications for the Earl Dailey Memorial Endowment Professional Improvement Grant and Project Grant.

Women look through potted plants on a table in a classroom

Registration open for 2026 SDSU Extension Master Gardener training

January 29, 2026

Registration is open for the 2026 South Dakota State University Extension Master Gardener training that will be offered from April 1 to July 31, 2026.

A group of friends gathered inside for a holiday meal.

Thriving in the Cold: How Northern Cultures Build Community to Combat Winter Isolation

Whether it's sharing a meal, enjoying the outdoors, or simply staying in touch, winter is an opportunity to foster connections and build resilience in South Dakota communities.

People shopping inside De Smet small business.

Are Chamber Bucks a Thing of the Past or Still a Viable Economic Development Tool?

For many communities, Chamber Bucks, sometimes called community gift certificates or local currency, have been a long-standing tradition. Today, they remain a simple, meaningful way to keep dollars working close to home while supporting businesses that invest in your community.