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a strand of oats in a field

2020 Plant Disease Summaries for Small Grains

A number of field trials were implemented in the 2020 growing season with the general objective of assessing various disease management practices suitable for South Dakota growers and the Great Plains.

Color-coded drought monitor map of South Dakota. As of March 22, northwest to southeast South Dakota are facing severe drought to abnormally dry conditions, while the northeast is under normal conditions.

Agronomic Considerations for Moisture Deficit Conditions

The current soil moisture stress in South Dakota could be more pronounced than we have seen in last few years. If this continues, cropping decisions may need to be adjusted for the upcoming growing season.

Livestock guardian dog resting near a flock of sheep.

Livestock Guardian Dogs for Improved Protection

Most sheep producers will use a variety of methods to protect their flock, but one that has increased interest is the use of livestock guardian dogs.

Revegetation of Salt-Impacted Soils in South Dakota

This publication provides suggested native species suitable for the revegetation of salt-impacted soils. The suggested species are listed as native to South Dakota according to the USDA NRCS Plants Database.

A sprawling sorghum field ready for harvest

An identification guide for Sorghum Insect Pests in South Dakota

Pictorial guide for common insect pests of sorghum in South Dakota.

herd of beef cattle grazing in a pasture

Management of Body Condition Score throughout the Year

Body condition scoring (BCS) is a visual indicator of past energy status of cattle and a method that can be used to monitor nutritional status of the cow herd.

Cover crops emerging from a no-till field.

Soil Organic Matter Matters: How Conservation Practices Bring Value to Farmers

Conservation management practices, such as conservation tillage, cover crops, crop rotation and livestock integration, help improve soil health over time and offer producers numerous economic benefits.

A black angus bull standing in a hilly pasture.

Bull Nutrition

This publication focuses on nutrient requirements for developing bulls, feeding programs to “let down” overconditioned bulls, and feeding during the period between breeding seasons.

Small group of white sheep in a sheep shearing enclosure.

Economically Relevant Wool Traits and Wool Heritability

South Dakota is known for a high reputation wool clip. Emphasis on economically important wool traits coupled with careful genetic selection helps promote production, profitability and sustainability in an operation.

Variety of grasses growing in rangeland with some showing signs of drought stress.

Options for Spring Turnout

Every year at green-up, grass managers must make decisions about when and where to begin grazing. Several options are available depending on pasture resources, stored feed resources and the ability to be flexible.