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Ruminating on Microbiomes

During this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Dr. Ben St. Pierre from South Dakota State University to discuss all thing microbiome and cattle digestive system.

Vast, rolling rangeland near the Black Hills of South Dakota.

South Dakota Range Camp Set for June 29–July 1

April 12, 2021

SDSU Extension is partnering with staff from the United States Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and Natural Resources Conservation Service to provide a three-day event, the South Dakota Natural Resource Professionals Range Camp.

Mixed cattle in feedlot

Mineral Sources May Impact Reproductive Efficiency

It is well-known by producers and feed specialists that trace minerals play an essential role in physiological functions. Minerals like copper, iodine, manganese, selenium, and zinc are important in embryonic development.

Three sets of rumen papillae photos. The first is labeled C and has several clusters of large, round, papillae. The second is DG1 and has several clusters of small to medium, round, papillae. The last is DG2 and has several clusters of small to medium, round, papillae.

Distillers’ Grains and Rumen Papillae Growth

Distillers grains are without a doubt one of the most versatile ruminant feedstuffs. Aside from their high concentration of sought-after nutrients (i.e. protein, energy, phosphorus), their impact on the digestibility of other feeds is minimal. In fact, by not interfering with the digestion particularly of structural carbohydrates, they allow for more energy to be obtained from forages.

Gardener holding a box of vegetables

SDSU Extension launches new virtual vegetable production training series

January 13, 2023

The South Dakota Virtual Vegetable Short Course is a four-part educational series geared toward commercial specialty crop farmers, gardeners and Master Gardeners. Nonprofits, business partners and members of the general public are also welcome to attend.

two white pigs with pink ears and noses.

What Would African Swine Fever Look Like if it Hit the US?

The incursion and expansion of African Swine Fever (ASF) into China has raised concerns among producers and regulatory officials about the threat the disease may pose to the U.S. swine industry.

Children seated at desks in a classroom raise their hands

SDSU Extension Farm to School supports 'feeding kids great food’

September 05, 2024

In 2024, 69 schools in South Dakota reported serving local beef in school meals in what’s commonly called Beef to School, a component of the Farm to School program supported by SDSU Extension.

Young man shoveling a pile of compost.

Organic Gardening: Soil Management

Gardeners throughout South Dakota are experimenting with organic gardening. While the adoption of organic gardening methods can be daunting, learning some fundamental soil management concepts will set the foundations for success.

A green combine that has caught fire in the field.

Avoiding Field Fires During Fall Harvest

With dry and drought conditions in the late summer and fall, crops dry down rapidly and harvest starts early. The climate outlook may be favorable for an uninterrupted run at harvest. However, the risk of fires during harvest is always a concern for farmers.

Soil Health & Drainage - Complementary tools from conflicting views

What is the relationship between soil health and drainage? How have different agricultural practices adjusted the landscape over time?