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Sprawling rangeland with a diverse mix of native grasses and forbs.

Historical Trends in South Dakota’s Agricultural Land Values by Land Use

Average cropland and pasture values increased in all regions of South Dakota between 1991 and 2024. Learn some expert insights into South Dakota's regional trends in agricultural land values and rental rates for cropland and pasture/rangeland.

A group of people listening to a presentation
Oct 16

Eastern South Dakota Water Conference 2024

The Eastern South Dakota Water Conference will be held on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at the McCrory Gardens Education and Visitor Center (631 22nd Ave., Brookings, SD 57006).

United States Environmental Protection Agency Sign plate outside the agency’s main office.

EPA Issues Emergency Order: Stop Using Dacthal

Following a review of data associated with the use of dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (sold under the most-common trade name, Dacthal), the EPA has issued an emergency order to stop using this active ingredient effective immediately.

A green front-end-loader pulling a hay mower with a flushing bar.

Haying With Wildlife in Mind

Anyone who has spent time cutting hay knows that hayland can be a magnet for wildlife in late spring and early summer. Hay fields are often considered an “ecological trap” for wildlife; that is, they appear to be high quality habitat for nesting or feeding due to tall, dense grass and legumes, but often lead to increased mortality once harvesting is under way.

Group of older adults practicing tai chi

Tai Chi

Tai Chi is a safe and effective form of exercise that requires no equipment and can be performed in almost any setting.

Tall, green grass surrounding a small, green yellow toadflax plant that hasn’t quite flowered yet.

Yellow Toadflax Has Not Flowered in Some Parts of South Dakota

Yellow toadflax is a difficult-to-manage weed that infests pastures and rangeland. In contrast with other weeds, yellow toadflax should be sprayed when flowers are present for more-effective management.

Pollinator and Wildlife Habitat signs in a bed of plants and yellow flowers.

Funding Opportunities for Small-Scale Pollinator Habitats: A Guide for Urban and Home Garden Projects

Urban habitats are essential for providing food, shelter, and breeding grounds for important pollinators. Learn about some of the many funding opportunities available for urban pollinator habitat projects of all sizes and scopes.

Left: Drill-planted cereal rye cover crop. Right: Pre-harvest broadcast cereal rye cover crop.

Choosing Whether to Preharvest Broadcast Vs. Post-Harvest Drill Cover Crops

Cover crops are frequently planted following the harvest of the grain commodity crops. A decision for producers to make is to whether to preharvest broadcast or postharvest drill the cover crop.

Instructor leading a proctored exam in an agriculture classroom.

South Dakota Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certification Testing

New commercial pesticide applicators and those that have allowed their licenses to lapse must pass commercial pesticide applicator exams to receive certification. Learn about some some helpful resources, contacts, and tips to help you be successful in your certification testing.

three older ladies laughing while looking at an iPad

SDSU Extension hosts new Aging Mastery workshop for older adults

August 12, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to announce a new workshop in the Aging Mastery program for older adults.