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South Dakota Fairs and Festivals - Part One: Festival Deserts, Festival Revival, and Festival Impacts

In South Dakota, many fairs and festivals take place in late summer or fall to celebrate a successful harvest, and the ways of life that made it possible. Learn about the impacts of these festivals and why they are worth preserving, developing, and re-imagining.

Energize!

The Energize! Exploring Innovative Rural Communities Conference is designed to empower South Dakota’s rural communities by inviting them to network with community leaders from across the state to share success stories, get new ideas and take action to improve their own communities.

Food and Product Regulations for the Farmers Market

Food safety regulations can come from the federal, state or local government. This article provides information on numerous regulatory topics as they apply to vendors and market managers involved with farmers markets.

Ages & Stages in the Garden: Ages 9-11

When working with upper elementary youth in a garden consider their physical development and skill level as you develop learning activities. Nine to eleven year olds have better coordination and reaction time by this age, however sometimes dues to growth spurs there can be short-term issues with balance and coordination. Additionally, these children have more body strength and their hand dexterity has increased.

Ages & Stages in the Garden: Ages 6-8

A garden can be used to teach many concepts to a board range of ages. When working with early elementary youth you will want to consider characteristics of their development when planning lessons and activities.

Ages & Stages in the Garden: 4-5 year olds

If considering a garden-based learning program for four to five year-old it is important to understand some of their developmental characteristics prior to planning your program. Young children’s abilities will differ greatly from older youth.

Considering Snapchat for your community? Potential benefits, challenges, and questions to ask.

Snapchat is a widely used social platform, particularly for teens through those in their 30s. For communities hoping to engage students, young families, visitors, or early-career workers, this audience reach may be attractive.

2026 Energize conference touts benefits of youth staying in SD

June 09, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension hosted a successful 2026 Energize conference in Wall with 144 attendees.

A Library of Things

Community libraries no longer carry just books. Guests can find all sorts of items to check out, including games, tools, and even camping and outdoor gear! These items are collectively called a Library of Things.