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Color-coded map showing average grazing readiness date for Western Wheatgrass in South Dakota. For assistance reading this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

South Dakota Grazing Readiness Spring Turnout Map

The South Dakota Grazing Readiness Map uses historical climate data to provide livestock producers with a range of spring turnout dates for their location based on grass type.

Birds-eye view of an industrial factory

April Ag Economic Dialogues Discusses Carbon Credit Contracts

April 08, 2022

SDSU Extension will host the next Ag Economic Dialogues webinar on April 15 at 10 a.m. CDT. The April webinar will cover how to evaluate carbon credit contracts.

Two pastures separated by a fence. The right pasture is severely overgrazed, while the neighboring pasture has more cover, but has also developed an invasive weed problem.

The Lasting Effects of Overgrazing on Rangeland Ecosystems

Overgrazing can cause various detrimental effects on rangeland ecosystems. Most of the effects are seen in the short term, but some are unseen and can be lasting.

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.

Small group of cattle grazing a well-managed grassland area.

Cool-Season Grasses of South Dakota

Fact sheet about cool-season grasses in South Dakota.

Herd of mixed cattle grazing a fenced-in winter pasture.

Alternative Management Strategies for Culled Cows

Traditionally, keeping open females is not a popular option. However, variability in cull cow prices and feed costs may provide an opportunity to consider other options.

A heavily tilled field showing signs of severe topsoil loss due to erosion. Next to it, there is a no-till field with no noticeable signs of 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.

A rancher and RMA agent reviewing insurance paperwork beside a off-road vehicle.

Livestock Risk Protection for Cattle

Price rallies, general price volatility and concern that prices may move lower could lead producers to insure livestock prices. Livestock Risk Protection is an insurance program that covers the single-peril or risk of lower prices on fed cattle and feeder cattle.

Home canning supplies and canned vegetables arranged on a countertop.

Master Food Preserver Volunteer Program

If you enjoy preserving food, volunteering and helping your community, SDSU Extension's Master Food Preserver volunteer program may be for you!