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A statue of a dairy cow on a landscaped terrace in front of a long dairy barn.

Being Vigilant of Livestock Property Security and Surveillance

Livestock producers have many daily responsibilities when it comes to caring for and protecting their animals. One responsibility is to remain vigilant regarding individuals that oppose the use of animals for food or other purposes.

Producer moving a group of black cattle into a section of fenced-in pasture.

Grazing Contracting

For those who own grasslands not typically grazed, or for those looking for a better contract basis, there are several grazing contract options that can be explored.

Three people smile for the camera with bison and rolling hills in the background

Bringing happy, healthy bison back to the Great Plains

January 17, 2025

There are approximately 400,000 bison across North America, down from 30 to 60 million prior to the 1860s. South Dakota has the largest bison population in the U.S. with nearly 40,000, and Martin hopes to see it keep rising.

Technician installing a wireless internet router on an exterior structure.

Choosing the Right Wireless Network Technologies for Agricultural Internet-Of-Things Applications

The Agricultural Internet-of-Things remotely connects various farm devices and equipment throughout an operation. This article takes a look at several prevalent wireless network technologies, focusing on their potential application scenarios in precision agriculture.

A group of ranchers meeting out in the range.

Strategic and Scenario Planning in Ranching: Managing Risk in Dynamic Times

A changing marketplace, price volatility, labor availability, record high feeder calf prices, the effects of the ethanol industry: How will your ranch operation adapt?

A group of red angus cattle.

Calving Distribution Calculator

Excel calculator for calving distribution

Three ribeye steaks on a cutting board.

Meat

SDSU Extension provides meat resources for producers, processors and consumers.

herd of beef cattle grazing in a pasture

Beef

Home to more than 1 million head of cattle, South Dakota’s producers can rely on SDSU Extension for research-based information, best management practices and resources to support healthy and profitable herds.

small group of sheep standing in a pasture

Sheep & Goats

South Dakota ranks sixth nationally in sheep and wool production. And the industry is growing.

Lush, riparian vegetation growing alongside a stream running through rangeland.

Ranching and Prairie Streams: Riparian Vegetation

Riparian vegetation consists of the collection of plants that thrive along streams, riverbanks, and wetlands. Learn about the many ecological benefits this vegetation provides.