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Two producers inspecting freshly cut alfalfa in a field.

Alfalfa Harvest Timing and Objectives

Guessing when to make that first cutting can be difficult, as using plant maturity or calendar dates alone can be quite risky. Get the most out of your first cutting with some expert tips that consider the timing and objectives of alfalfa harvest.

Two pastures separated by a fence. The right pasture is severely overgrazed, while the neighboring pasture has more cover, but has also developed an invasive weed problem.

The Lasting Effects of Overgrazing on Rangeland Ecosystems

Overgrazing can cause various detrimental effects on rangeland ecosystems. Most of the effects are seen in the short term, but some are unseen and can be lasting.

Stacked, round hay bales.

Cost-effective and Balanced Cow Rations

Before buying "cheap" feed, it is important to ensure that it will be cost-effective when creating balanced rations for the winter. Learn some things to consider before purchasing.

Basket of fresh sweetcorn cobs.

Growing Sweet Corn Successfully in South Dakota

Sweet corn is a staple crop with many different varieties, which each bring their own unique qualities influencing flavor, texture, and shelf life. Learn some expert tips for growing it in South Dakota gardens!

hand in plastic glove holding meat thermometer

Is it Done Yet? How to Determine Meat is Cooked Properly

“Is it done yet?” We all ask this question when cooking and there are a variety of methods that have been passed down to determine the ‘doneness’ of different products

Small herd of dairy cattle in an outdoor lot.

Managing Stress in Dairy Cows

Which stressors are your dairy cows experiencing? The economic effects of stress can be significant, so developing a strategy to manage it can be profitable.

SDSU’s off-site wean-to-finish barn.

Phytobiotics-based Product Found to Impact Bacterial Populations in Gut of Weaned Pigs

As additions to feed or water, phytobiotics have shown promise in alleviating some of the negative effects of weaning on piglet health and growth performance.

An dairy farmer and site inspector talking near a fence outside a dairy dairy barn.

Preparing for FARM Animal Care Evaluations

The FARM Animal Care Version 4.0 rolled out January 2020. This article is a condensed tool to aid you in preparing for your next evaluation.

Diagram of an artificial insemination semen tank. For assistance reading this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

Proper Semen Handling Techniques

Proper semen handling is crucial for the overall reproductive success of an operation utilizing artificial insemination. Learn some expert tips for equipment selection, product storage and semen handling.

Herd of mixed cattle grazing a fenced-in winter pasture.

Alternative Management Strategies for Culled Cows

Traditionally, keeping open females is not a popular option. However, variability in cull cow prices and feed costs may provide an opportunity to consider other options.