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Trey Patterson Part 1

This week on Cattle HQ, Kiernan Brandt, former SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist, and Robin Salverson, explore the tradition and innovation of the Padlock Ranch with Dr. Trey Patterson, CEO.

Illustration of a rancher making a management decision that triggers a chain of dominoes representing different technologies such as wearable livestock sensors, genetics, satellites, drones, modeling, and data analytics. The falling dominos symbolize how management actions create effects that unfold over time, often with delayed and unintended consequences. Zeros and ones in the background represent the increasing amount of data modern ranchers must interpret when making decisions.

From One Decision to Many Outcomes: Why feed management decisions ripple through beef production systems

Feed management is the starting point of a system that rewards informed decisions and magnifies uninformed ones. Producers who use feed informed nutrition models are often able to reduce waste, increase gains, and decrease costs.

Lamb with older sheep in the background

Three outstanding operations receive SD Master Lamb Producer Awards

October 30, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to announce the winners of the 2025 Master Lamb Producer Awards.

Adult red earthworm, cabbage looper, and brown-belted bumble bee.

The Seen and Unseen World of Invertebrates and Vegetables: The good, the bad, and the cute

The seen and unseen worlds of invertebrates in our gardens offer an opportunity to understand how each organism plays a crucial role in the balance of our environment, whether they are good, bad, or even cute.

Small group of cattle grazing fall pasture.

Fall Pasture Report: Considerations for Dormant Season Grazing

Recent fall rains across the region continue to improve soil moisture conditions in preparation for the dormant season. Unlike in years past, a fall green up has been in full swing for much of the region.

Show pig at State Fair.

Show Pig Season

Show pig season is a culmination of dedication, passion, and hard work, and the process of raising pigs to show involves a delicate balance of proper nutrition, exercise, and grooming.

Crop field with various areas highlighted to show variations in crop performance.

Variations in a Field and Variable Rate Technology Adoption

Field variations, including soil properties, nutrient content, and moisture levels, can significantly impact crop yield and farm profits. By understanding the specific needs of different areas, farmers can apply fertilizers, seeds, and other inputs more effectively.

Winter wheat emerging from a planted field.

Starter Fertilizer in Winter Wheat

Winter wheat planting season is soon at hand. Questions often abound on the issue of fertilization rates, timing and placement. Over the years, a lot of research has focused on starter fertilizers or split-applying nitrogen (N) and other nutrients. In general, phosphorus placed with the seed has been shown to increase tillering and total grain yield. Nitrogen is more uncertain, due to the possibility of salt burn and the associated yield losses.

Three brown yearlings eating from a feeding trough.

Distillers Supplementation Strategies for Grazing Yearlings

Providing a high-protein supplement to yearlings during the grazing season may increase final body weights and average daily gain compared to not providing supplement. The frequency of supplementation comes down to economic and logistical viability.

Professional portrait of Jack Davis

Davis retires after 30 years with SDSU Extension

July 17, 2024

South Dakota State University Extension Crops Business Management Specialist Jack Davis is retiring after 30 years of serving South Dakota’s agricultural community.