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Climate, Weather and Fire/Fuels Update: October 2, 2023
Across South Dakota, some localized storms and showers brought rain in many parts of the state last week, while weekly average temperatures were two to ten degrees above typical for this time of year.
Range Beef Cow Research: Rangeland Soil Health
For rangelands to maintain productivity and produce adequate levels of forage, soil health must be sustained and function properly.
Common Flowering Plants (Forbs) of South Dakota
This guide focuses on forbs, or flowering “broad-leaved” herbaceous plants, but forbs can be narrow-leaved as well.
Saturated Buffer for South Dakota
Saturated buffer fact sheet for producers, tile drainage contractors, conservation professionals, other ag professionals.
Can You Break the Hydro-illogical Cycle?
Regardless of the time of year, it is critical to start thinking about the next drought before we are in it. Learn some key strategies for breaking the Hydro-Illogical Cycle by leveraging drought motioning resources and creating a plan for your operation.
Ranching and Prairie Streams: Why Riparian Areas Matter
For many producers, riparian pastures are essential to their operations. However, land managers need to balance grazing and utilization needs with riparian health for the long-term benefit of their operation.
Western South Dakota Stream Guide now available for landowners, managers
January 24, 2023
A new manual, “Understanding Western South Dakota Prairie Streams” – or the Stream Guide – is now available as a free digital download.
La Niña’s Third Year Concludes With Cold Temperatures
A rare, third consecutive year with La Niña conditions is coming to an end, but not without bringing cold temperatures in early February. See what to expect for the rest of winter and early spring with an analysis of the NOAA's latest climate outlook.
Water Conservation and Efficiency During Times of Drought
As drought conditions continue to expand across the state this year, more thought is given towards South Dakota’s limited water resources. We live in a state where weather conditions and rain patterns seem to comfortably exist at the extremes; we either have way too much or nearly not enough. While this isn’t always the case, it is important to keep in mind that our water resources are finite and all of us should be thinking about doing what we can to protect them.
Carbon Markets and Opportunities for Farmers
There is growing interest in paying farmers for regenerative agricultural practices as a means for sequestering carbon. Learn about some of the benefits and challenges that carbon capture opportunities offer for producers.