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SDSU Extension Continues Outreach Efforts During COVID-19 Pandemic

April 03, 2020

While offices throughout the state are closed, SDSU Extension experts remain available remotely and encourage the public to reach out to them via email or by phone.

Vendor selling a variety of food products at a farmer’s market.

Food Safety for South Dakota Farmers Market Vendors: Regulations and Best Practices

Farmers markets are a valuable sales outlet for farmers and food entrepreneurs alike. Learn some essential rules, regulations, and best practices for processing, handling, and selling a variety of common food items at South Dakota farmers markets.

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

SDSU Extension hosts successful Energize conference in Platte

June 03, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension hosted a successful Energize conference in Platte with 150 attendees.

A row of vendor tents at a farmers market.

Drafting Farmers Market Documents: Market Rules

It is strongly recommended that new and existing farmers markets draft rules to govern the daily operation of the market.

A series of food trucks lined up at a community event.

If You Build It, They Will Come: Building a Local Tourism Event

Whether realizing it or not, entities across South Dakota have overcome many hurdles to launch entrepreneurial tourism-focused ventures. For the rest of us, let’s take a moment to consider core steps in building your next big idea.

A bandshell in a small community park.

The Power of 10: Rural Considerations in Placemaking

When you think of a place that you enjoy, how many different types of engagement make that place valuable? Consider a park. You have the swing sets, the children’s area, a pool, perhaps a gazebo or small shell, the trees and environment. Is that enough for a quality space?

A map of South Dakota indicating libraries that are participating in the Rural Libraries Hotspot Lending Program

SDSU Extension collaborates with AARP South Dakota and rural libraries to provide better internet access

February 17, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension is collaborating with AARP South Dakota and South Dakota’s public libraries to give the state’s rural citizens better access to the internet.

Family touring a poultry farm.

Is Agritourism for You?

Do you like people and wish to provide educational or entertainment opportunities that showcases your farm or ranch? If so, agritourism is an opportunity you may wish to explore!

two young women smiling and sitting at a table taking notes

Sample Questions to Ask a Current Business Owner/Operator

If you are thinking of starting a business, it makes sense to ask questions of current business owners in similar fields to give you a sense of owning and operating a business yourself.

A group of employees working as a team at a meeting.

Effective Meeting Communication Begins With the Principles

Does every meeting require guiding principles? Probably not; however if you have a group of people who haven’t worked together before, it can help to determine expectations at a meeting.