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Factors Affecting Wheat Production Decisions: Producer survey findings
Recent USDA data shows that during the past 3 years acres devoted to wheat production continue declining in both South Dakota and North Dakota (USDA, 2018). South Dakota wheat acres experienced a remarkable decrease of 31.5% during the past 3 years, compared with a relatively mild drop of 16.4% by North Dakota.
Determining Hay Prices
Before pricing forages, producers will want to have a good understanding about the cost of growing a ton of hay, alfalfa or straw.
Sorghum Trial Results
In 2023, sorghum trials were conducted in 2 locations in South Dakota.
Feeding at the Right Price
Managing feedstuffs efficiently becomes more important during drought conditions or low revenue years.
Early Weaning as a Drought Management Strategy
Successfully managing drought conditions requires balancing the amount of forage demanded by grazing livestock with the amount produced.
Economic Considerations for Early Weaning
There is an excellent reason why ranchers use early weaning as a drought management tool: Weaning calves early reduces the amount of feed required to maintain the cow.
Saturated Buffer for South Dakota
Saturated buffer fact sheet for producers, tile drainage contractors, conservation professionals, other ag professionals.
Spring Wheat Variety Trial Results
The 2023 spring wheat reports include data from 10 locations with regional summaries.
Field Pea Variety Trial Results
In 2023, field pea trials were planted at different locations in South Dakota.
Lawn Weed Control
Cultural weed control practices must be included in weed management programs to optimize control and inhibit re-infestation. A healthy, dense turf cover is the best overall defense against weed invasion. Some common cultural weed control practices include planting the most adapted turfgrass species for your environment (i.e. shade, full sun, or hot, dry conditions), maintaining a mowing height of 2.5–3.5 inches, watering deeply but less frequently, and proper soil maintenance including fertilization and core aerification.