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Herd of mixed cattle grazing a vast, open rangeland.

Adopt-A-Cow

The “Adopt-A-Cow” program engages elementary age youth in learning about animal agriculture through hands-on activities and by connecting youth virtually with real South Dakota animals.

Magnifying glass reveals bacteria in a salad.

Foodborne Illnesses

Foodborne illnesses are caused by consuming foods that are contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Learn about the risk factors for some of the most-common foodborne illnesses.

A brown and black cow standing in a feedlot with flies on its face.

Summer Fly Control in Feedlots

Just as longer days mark the beginning of summer, so does the arrival of increased number of flies in feedlots. Flies are not only are an annoyance, they can reduce performance and worsen heat stress. Successful control strategies start with sanitation.

Variety of fresh vegetables in blue plastic totes on a table at a farmers market.

Food Safety for Farmers Markets

Food safety bulletins for farmers markets and other direct marketing vendors

Gravel road with swine barn in the distance.

Air Infiltration in Swine Barns

Air infiltration in large, confined swine operations has been an on-going problem for producers for many years. Regardless of technological advancements in building design and construction, unwanted air penetration continues to be a consistent problem.

Cucumbers growing on a vine in a garden.

Cucumbers: How to Grow It

Some cucumber varieties form long vines that may ramble or be trellised. Others are bush types that fit more easily into a small garden or even a large container.

Gray tear drop shaped bugs feeding on a yellow squash.

Squash Bugs Are Active in South Dakota

Squash bugs are an insect pest that everyone dreads finding in their garden. If left unmanaged, injury caused by their extensive feeding can kill infested squash and cucurbit plants.

Group of farmers and ranchers gathered at an emergency meeting.

Texas Panhandle Wildfire Relief Resources

On February 26, 2024, wildfires began to spread across a large portion of the panhandle of Texas. As of March 8, 2024, there have been 1,058,482 acres burned by the fire, making this the largest recorded wildfire in the state’s history.

row of lockers with several employee jackets, hats, and clothing hanging outside.

10 Simple Amenities That Will Boost Employee Morale

Agricultural employers who prioritize their work environment and offerings often have employees that are more satisfied and proficient at their work.

A soybean root with several small white cysts growing on it.

Scout and Soil Test for the Soybean Cyst Nematode 

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is the main soybean production constraint in South Dakota. Soybean plants can be infested with SCN but may not display visible symptoms.