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Crop Rotation in Farm Management
Crop rotation has long been considered an important farm practice. In 2013 producers had to stray from their well thought out crop rotations when the winter wheat crop in South Dakota failed.

Farming Strategies for the Future
There was a time in agriculture when greater yields always meant greater profitability. Today’s economic environment is characterized by high input costs and depressed commodity prices. Under this scenario when the optimum input/output relationship has been attained, more inputs do not necessarily result in greater returns on investment. Therefore, todays’ agriculture paradigm requires management that addresses production “optimization”. This is the point where a previously known level of inputs maximizes outputs before incurring into greater investments that result into diminishing returns.

Blister Beetles Showing up in Alfalfa Fields
Blister beetles are now active in South Dakota. Although the larvae of blister beetles can be beneficial by feeding on grasshopper eggs, the adults cause issues when large populations are present in alfalfa at the time of harvest.

Fall 2021 Climate and Drought Outlook
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Seasonal Climate Outlook, released Aug. 19, 2021, projects drought conditions to continue through the fall season.

Will Dectes Stem Borers Be an Issue in 2020?
Every year, there is a risk that sunflower in South Dakota will be infested by Dectes stem borer larvae. At this point in the season, adults are active, and females have likely been laying eggs in sunflower plants.

Insurance
Not sure where to start when purchasing insurance? Find out the basics of how insurance works, what it covers and what types are available.

Spring Storms Help Bureau of Reclamation Reservoirs in Northwestern South Dakota
While the moisture was needed, the systems were severe with blizzard conditions occurring from multi-day, strong-gusting winds across the area.

Dealing with Drought Stressed Lawns
Drought is a common concern across the region this summer affecting landscapes in many ways, but probably most noticeably in its impact on lawns.

Ranching and Prairie Streams: What Healthy Riparian Areas Mean for Your Ranch
Prairie streams and their associated riparian areas can provide numerous ecosystem services to a ranching operation.

The Crucial Role of Marketing for Small Businesses
For small enterprises especially, utilizing smart marketing techniques can make a significant difference in the visibility, credibility, and overall profitability of a business.