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Crop Rotation in Farm Management
Crop rotation has long been considered an important farm practice. In 2013 producers had to stray from their well thought out crop rotations when the winter wheat crop in South Dakota failed.
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.
Soybean Investigations: Research on Your Farm Seeks Farmer Cooperators
SDSU Extension and the South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council are seeking South Dakota Soybean Growers willing to participate in a farmer-led on-farm strip trial research program.
Crop Hour
SDSU Extension will deliver a series of virtual Crop Hour webinars starting January 9 through March 7, 2024, every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. CST.
Late-Season Nitrogen For Soybean?
Some South Dakota soybean fields that were planted early and have had sufficient moisture have reached early pod setting stage (R3) and are looking good.
Consider SCN Sampling This Spring
Soybean cyst nematode management starts with a soil test to determine the presence or absence of this nematode in the soil.
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.
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.