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Aerial view of the SDSU Northeast Research Farm.
Jul 09

Northeast Research Farm Field Day

Attend the Northeast Research Farm field day on Thursday, July 9, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. CDT to dusk at the Northeast Research Farm (15710 455th Ave., South Shore, SD). The farm is located 2.5 miles west of Interstate 29 off exit 193.

Early spring lawn with noticeable weed growth.

Organic Herbicides for Lawns

Organic herbicides are becoming more common on the market due to the perception that these products as safer towards humans, pets, and the environment. For those interested in these products, there are several factors to consider.

aerial view of South Dakota farm and surrounding land

Crops

During the growing season, SDSU Extension provides weekly production recommendations.

Group of local foods education center staff inside high tunnel.

Growing Connections: An Organizational Map of the South Dakota Local Food System

Behind every farmer’s market, community supported agriculture share, or local food event is a network of advocates, educators, and organizations that make it all possible. The South Dakota Local Food System map illustrates the organizations that strengthen local food through a variety of roles and functions.

A green tractor pulls a planter to plant oats in a field.

Fields of Growth: Taking Care of Your Mental Health During Planting Season

Despite the opportunities that come with a new planting season, it is just as important to care for your mental and physical health during this busy, stressful time of the year.

A corn planter planting seeds into wheat residue in a no-till field.

The Economic Advantages of No-Till: Diesel Fuel

While no-till and conservation systems are often discussed for their soil health benefits, the economic advantages are becoming increasingly important in today’s farm economy, particularly when it comes to fuel costs.

Annual trials garden at McCrory Gardens
Jun 02

Garden Hour

Make the most of your garden and landscaping with weekly insights and ideas from our team of experts.

A planting of alfalfa.

Effects of Late Spring Frost on Alfalfa

Forage research indicates that, although alfalfa is considered to have good cold temperature tolerance, minor frost damage may occur when plants are exposed to air temperatures slightly below freezing for several hours, and more severe damage will be seen when temperatures drop below 25°F for four or more hours.

Mixed group of cattle grazing a diverse mix of forage.

Diversifying Your Forage Base for Drought Flexibility

While no single strategy eliminates drought risk, diversifying the forage base can offer producers added flexibility by spreading risk across species, planting windows, and rooting depths.

Young absinth wormwood, Canada thistle, and leafy spurge plants emerging.

Start Management Plans Now: Absinth wormwood, Canada thistle and leafy spurge have emerged and are starting to grow

Absinth wormwood, Canada thistle and leafy spurge have emerged and are growing in eastern South Dakota. If not effectively managed, these weeds can displace desirable forage in pasture and rangeland.