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A low-gradient prairie river that is very meandering.

Understanding Western South Dakota Prairie Streams

This document provides information and guidance for landowners and land managers in western South Dakota who are managing small intermittent streams.

A family farm with the sun setting in the background.

Farm Size and Efficiency

Growth is a common denominator of various business objectives. A business may want to grow profits, sales, market share, etc. The growth of a business itself usually refers to growth in equity, or growth in assets after debts have been paid. Farms, from a business perspective, are no exception. Farmers seeking to grow equity need to be willing and able to retain earnings and cannot be overleveraged.

Rows of soybean growing in corn residue in a diverse, no-till crop rotation.

Economics of Different Crop Rotation Systems in South Dakota

Economic returns are an important factor to consider when selecting crop rotation systems.

A group of black angus cows grazing in a late spring field.

Defining a Breeding Season

While moving the calving season will not eliminate the unpredictability of weather, we can utilize a defined breeding season to plan when cows will calve and be better-able to manage cattle in the harsh winter and spring calving conditions.

Agriculture students touring a corn farm.

AgritourismSD announces Class 2 participants

April 24, 2023

SDSU Extension is pleased to announce the participants in the 2023-2024 AgritourismSD class.

A plot of land from the side, with plant roots growing down into the soil

SDSU Extension to discuss regenerative agriculture during Crop Hour

February 26, 2025

Presentations can be viewed online on the SDSU Extension website at https://extension.sdstate.edu/crop-hour.

aerial view of South Dakota farm and surrounding land

Barley Variety Trial Results

In 2019, Barley trial was planted at one location in South Dakota.

Small flock of sheep grazing in a pasture.

Using Livestock to Promote Healthy Rangelands

Fact sheet about using livestock to promote healthy rangelands

A sprawling green field of field pea plantings

Field Pea Variety Trial Results

2025 field pea trial results data from different locations in South Dakota.

A sprawling sorghum field ready for harvest

Sorghum Trial Results

In 2025, sorghum trials were conducted in 2 locations in South Dakota.