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Cooked slices of bacon on a slate with fresh herbs.

Don't Go Bacon My Heart

How much do most consumers really know about bacon? Let’s explore some bacon basics to help you understand this delicious product.

Bone-in sirloin steak.

Picking the Perfect Steak

As grilling season is getting into full swing, many grillers are in search of the perfect steak. Whether you prefer flavor, tenderness or marbling, learn some expert tips to select a steak that's right for you!

Color-coded map showing precent of normal forage production for South Dakota. For assistance reading this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

Herd Inventory Centers on Feed Available

With drought conditions continuing across the state, livestock producers will be making hard decisions on livestock inventory numbers as pasture and feed availability become an even more significant factor.

White basket-style air fryer on kitchen counter next to a basket of cooked French fries.

Air Fryer 101

Air fryers are a popular household appliance. Learn the basics of selecting an air fryer that meets your needs along with some simple recipes and cooking tips!

Variety of Animal-based protein sources.

High-Quality and Affordable Protein Options

Protein is an essential part of the human diet and can come from many sources. Learn about some diverse protein options to build resiliency when certain proteins are experiencing shortages or increased costs.

Mixed group of cattle in a winter pasture.

Ready, Set, Manage Hay Differently

Feed is expensive and sometimes hard to find. Pasture prices, harvest expenses, hauling and waste add to the total feed bill. Evaluate your forage situation this winter and make changes that improve your profitability.

A series of three creep feeders placed on an open range. Courtesy: Robin Webster (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Creep Feeding Options: Will it Pay?

Creep-feeding should be evaluated on yearly basis to determine if it will provide production and economic benefits to the operation.

An aerial view of a series of swine finishing facilities.

Methods to Slow Finishing Pig Growth

In abnormal situations, like with the packing plant closure we’re currently dealing with, pork producers may need to “hold” their pigs past normal marketing dates in order for other processing options to open up. We can accomplish that in two ways: altering internal barn environment and changing diets.

Two blue feed buckets filled with distillers grains.

Evaluating Feedstuffs on Nutrient Cost-Comparison Basis

Feed costs in dairy diets typically make up half or more of the input expenses of a ration. Thus, it is imperative to keep a handle on input costs by comparing ingredients on an apples-to-apples basis when looking for cost-effective diet solutions.

Three canning jars filled with cucumber slices.

Safe Canning Recipes

One of the most common errors in home canning is not using a scientifically tested recipe. Canning a family recipe is risky as it can cause spoilage and foodborne illness.