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Five Range Management Principles: #5 Climate Ready

Understanding your ranching system is critical, and identifying anticipated soil-plant-animal responses during periods of dry, wet, or normal conditions will enable you to develop climate-ready practices. Learn how to get started today!

Large Farms More Dominant in South Dakota Crop Production

Large farms play a more dominant role in South Dakota crop production, according to the recently released 2017 U.S. Census of Agriculture. As of 2017, large farms of more than 2,000 acres operate 66.8% of South Dakota total cropland aces compared to 47.7% as of 1997.

Stored Grain Pests: Spring Insect and Disease Issues

Grain storage is a key component in getting your crop to market. Aside from watching bins for spoilage, moisture, and temperature changes, make sure you are looking for signs of pest infestation.

Advocacy in the Beef Industry

Two speakers at the Range Beef Cow Symposium addressed today’s issue of disconnect between consumers and producers. With the majority of the population being at least three generations removed from the family farm, it is important for farmers and ranchers to tell their story and help the consumer understand how their food is produced.

Drylotting Cow-Calf Pairs

Whether because of reduced forage production caused by drought, or increased competition for grazing acres, feeding lactating cows in a drylot is being at least considered as an option by more ranchers.

Managing Your Bull’s Fertility

Even though we might be a couple of months before the start of your breeding season, now is the time to really be thinking about your herd bulls.

Farm Equipment, Safety on the Road, Everyone’s Role

National Farm Safety Week serves as a safety reminder for those involved in agriculture. During harvest, we will see an increase in farm equipment on the road, including tractors, combines, grain carts, silage choppers and silage trucks.

Can You “Make” a Cow Deliver Better Colostrum?

Cattle producers and veterinarians are aware of the large body of evidence clearly pointing to the benefits of colostrum for baby calves. As such, much attention has been given to the “intake side” of the equation (the calf’s side): how to ensure a calf consumes an adequate amount of high-quality colostrum.

2018 Annual Climate Summary

In 2018, South Dakota saw the typical weather extremes of all kinds. New Year’s Day 2018 started out with record cold temperatures and wind chills; the year ended with a blizzard on December 31, with a lot of extremes in between.

State Shoot Preparation: CMP

Coaches with youth shooting in the CMP competition are encouraged to read these quick tips before state shoot.