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A group of weaned calves

SDSU Extension Calf Value Discovery program registration open

September 21, 2023

Cow/calf producers can gain valuable information to improve their operations by participating in the South Dakota State University Extension’s Calf Value Discovery program, which is now accepting entries for 2023-2024.

A soil coring device that has been pounded into ground. Next to it are trimmed samples in rings used to measure soil bulk density.

Bulk Density is an Indicator of Soil Health

Bulk density is a commonly measured soil property that can indicate how compacted a soil is and can be used to calculate the percent pore space in the soil.

An Extension specialist speaks to two attendees at the 2022 Research Farm Field Day

Impacts in Horticulture and Food Systems

SDSU Extension helps South Dakotans learn how to plan, plant and maintain gardens and is available to help answer insect, disease and gardening questions.

Small group of black angus cattle grazing in a rolling, well-managed rangeland.

Impacts in Livestock Systems

South Dakota producers face new challenges each day. SDSU Extension is your partner, providing resources and expertise to help meet production goals in beef, dairy, swine, sheep and goats.

A closeup of a sheep's face. The sheep looks to be in pain.

Sore Mouth: A “Pox” Virus for Sheep

Just like in children or adults who contract the dreaded chicken pox, sheep and goats can catch their own similar “pox” virus called Sore Mouth, technically known as Contagious Ecthyma. This health problem is most recognizable by red blisters or thick brown scabs on the skin around the lips or muzzle area.

Grassed waterway leading to a large watershed in the distance.

Impacts in Water & Cropping Systems

SDSU Extension’s agronomy team works to boost farmers’ yields and profits by providing access to research-based information, resources and local agronomic information.

Two producers observing an in-field cattle watering unit.

Water Monitoring Systems for Livestock

Depending on animal locations, checking water tanks can require hours of labor and significant fuel costs for remote pastures. Water monitoring systems offer producers a convenient way to check the status of the water sources remotely.

Mixed cattle grazing corn stalks.

Corn Stalk Rental Rates

Corn stalk acres have long been a source of feed for livestock producers. But how much should producers charge to graze them, and what factors should they consider when developing a rental agreement?

Artificial Insemination school attendee working with a liquid nitrogen filled semen tank.

Dangers and Safety Precautions With Liquid Nitrogen

If you artificially inseminate, you have been exposed to liquid nitrogen. Even though it is commonly used in livestock production, it is critical to follow safety procedures, because it is very dangerous.

Several cows and cow-calf pairs at pasture.

Equation of Reproductive Efficiency

The key factors to reproductive success in beef cattle are proper management, nutrition, health, and selection, while reproductive technologies can enhance management if the previous factors are in sync.