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A small group of cattle grazing a rolling pasture.

Cow Herd Options

April 2018 and 2019 blizzards caused stress to the region’s cowherds, and for some herds changed the calving distribution. 2020 brings a chance to re-establish a preferred calving distribution.

Muddy field with no residual forage exhibiting signs of extreme soil erosion.

Five Range Management Principles: #4 Residual Forage

Residual forage is the amount of green leaf left after a grazing event. Understanding its importance can help producers capitalize on the symbiotic relationship that occurs when soil health is front and center on rangelands.

Two producers inspecting a soybean planter.

Tips to Prepare Your Planter: A Precision Ag Perspective

Planting time is nearly upon us, and setting your planter up properly can help save time, reduce unexpected costs, and increase your profitability and safety. Learn some expert tips for getting started!

green plant leaf with white, powdery growth throughout

Plant Problems in Cool, Wet Soil

Wet, cool soils are prime conditions for many plant diseases to thrive. Lear more about some of the most-common cool, wet weather problems.

A green front-end-loader pulling a hay mower with a flushing bar.

Haying With Wildlife in Mind

Anyone who has spent time cutting hay knows that hayland can be a magnet for wildlife in late spring and early summer. Hay fields are often considered an “ecological trap” for wildlife; that is, they appear to be high quality habitat for nesting or feeding due to tall, dense grass and legumes, but often lead to increased mortality once harvesting is under way.

A woman wearing a cowboy hat with a crown rides a horse and carries a flag

Miss Rodeo America represents South Dakota and SDSU Extension 4-H on national stage

September 19, 2025

Callie Mueller is passionate about Western culture and heritage. And, unsurprisingly for the reigning Miss Rodeo America, a big part of that is rodeo.

Gooseberry bush in a garden with bright, red berries dangling from its branches.

Gooseberry: How to Grow It

Gooseberries are small shrubs that can provide fruit even in partially or lightly shaded locations. Learn some expert tips for planting, growing, and harvesting them in this resource!

A large, wooden barn stands in the background, with tree branches in the foreground

SDSU Extension helps agritourism producers promote their strengths

January 09, 2026

In 2019, Good Earth Farm owners Nancy and Jeff Kirstein had to make a decision. The barn on their Lennox-based property, originally constructed in 1897, needed attention.

Thirteen youth in cowboy hats and western wear smile for the camera, holding up their ribbons and award plaques

SDSU Extension 4-H excels at 2026 Western National Roundup

February 06, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension 4-H youth excelled at the 2026 Western National Roundup, winning the overall high state award in the Horse Classic.

White beef cow with calf in a pasture.

Strategic Culling During Drought Can Strengthen Ranch Profitability

In today’s cattle market, thoughtful culling decisions can provide a dual benefit, generating immediate income from strong cull cow prices while reducing the number of animals to feed during periods of high feed costs and drought stress.