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SDSU Extension to Host Drought Management Meetings
April 29, 2022
SDSU Extension will host drought management meetings across South Dakota May 10-12.
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.
The Costs of Erosion: Topsoil’s Role in Food Security
The thin layer of topsoil covering our earth sustains almost all of the life we know. Learn some answers to common questions about protecting it from erosion.
Multiple Rounds of Severe Weather Bring Heavy Rainfall, High Winds, and Soil Erosion
A combination of tillage, no residue, and lack of crop canopy can lead to severe erosion and topsoil loss in the face of extreme weather patterns in the spring. The most effective strategy for producers to adapt to these extreme events is to improve soil health.
Integrating Perennial Crops in Annual Crop Rotations
The Dakota Lakes Research Farm is working to develop cropping systems that include perennial crops, such as switchgrass, big bluestem and alfalfa, to improve long-term soil health and farm productivity.
Late Summer 2020 Climate Outlook
Drought concerns in South Dakota may be relieved later this summer, according to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center’s seasonal outlook released this week.
Black Grass Bug Activity Expected in Coming Weeks
Spring green-up is the time to be watching for black grass bug activity. Large populations of this early-season pest can cause severe damage to pasture (up to 90% forage reduction) and infest the edges of wheat fields.
Crop Residue, Cover Crops Impact on Soil Health Parameters
Interest in no-till and cover crops has been on the rise among South Dakota crop producers. In 2019, half of South Dakota crop ground was under no-till management and about 900,000 acres were planted to cover crops.
Soil Temperature for Planting Spring Crops
Soil temperature is an important consideration for deciding when to begin planting spring crops. If producers in South Dakota would like a quick reference for soil temperatures in their area, the SD Mesonet network measures soil temperature at several weather stations throughout the state.
SDSU Extension Develops Perennial Plant Mixtures for Alkali Areas
April 24, 2020
The Every Acre Counts program through SDSU Extension has developed perennial plant mixture suggestions suited for various types of marginal land situations, including saline, sodic and wet soil areas.