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A sign directs drivers to an SDSU Extension field day

SDSU Extension hosts 5th annual Specialty Crop Field Day

July 24, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to announce its fifth annual Specialty Crop Field Day at the SDSU campus in Brookings.

A small herd of cattle grazing in a snow storm.

Spring Storm Fronts Impact Calving Patterns

While the changes in calving patterns in association with weather fronts is nothing new to producers, it is beneficial to keep this in mind as calving season shifts into high gear. Cold fronts are the type of weather systems that will create the pressure and temperature changes associated with increased birth rates.

Crop field with various areas highlighted to show variations in crop performance.

Variations in a Field and Variable Rate Technology Adoption

Field variations, including soil properties, nutrient content, and moisture levels, can significantly impact crop yield and farm profits. By understanding the specific needs of different areas, farmers can apply fertilizers, seeds, and other inputs more effectively.

Tree lined hiking trail at Cathedral Spires

Limber Pines of the Cathedral Spires: A Unique Tree

Fact sheet on the history, status and threats of limber pines.

Young tomato plants surrounded by organic mulch in a no-till garden.

Microbial Water Testing for South Dakota Producers

Microbial water testing is important for produce growers to know the quality of their water to help ensure the safety of the fruits, vegetables, and herbs they produce.

Field showing sheet and rill erosion following a heavy rain event.

Soil Erosion Mitigation During Heavy Rainfall Events

Adopting soil health practices that minimize disturbance, increase surface cover and organic matter content, and keep roots growing in the soil can help to increase soil infiltration rates and reduce destruction of soil aggregates from heavy rain.

Leaf with noticeable powdery mildew symptoms.

Powdery Mildew Presence in Your Garden: How to identify and prevent it

Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that targets a wide range of hosts. It is important to identify its presence as soon as possible to slow its spread and prevent irreversible damage.

A photo of a winter grazing pasture with a variety of grasses, shrubs and forbs that was taken at the SDSU Cottonwood Field Station that contains some field pennycress.

2025 Field Pennycress Management Considerations

Field pennycress prevalence on pastures has been observed to be in higher abundance this year in Western South Dakota. When consumed in certain quantities it can be toxic to livestock.

A picture of producers (ranchers) in a rangeland pasture looking into another pasture that has different forage biomass quantities. The

Systems Thinking for Agriculture: A tool for addressing complex ranch problems

A systems approach to management encourages producers to take multiple factors into consideration to solve problems within their agricultural operation.

Producer examining a white lamb.

Coccidiosis in Lambs

Coccidiosis in lambs is a significant health concern that requires prompt recognition and treatment to minimize its impact. It primarily impacts young lambs, leading to severe gastrointestinal distress and potential economic losses for sheep producers.