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Cover Crop Adoption: Farmers’ perceived benefits & barriers
Cover crops are generally defined as crops planted between cash crops to cover and protect the soil. Some demonstrated benefits of cover crops include: reduced soil erosion, increased soil organic matter, increased biological diversity, increased nitrogen supply, and weed control. Depending on the farmers’ objectives, different species of cover crops can be planted. For example, if a farmer’s main objective is to increase nitrogen supply, then legume cover crops best suited to the farm area should be selected.
Prussic Acid Precautions
During periods of drought, it is important to aware of the factors that can be a concern during these conditions, specifically nitrates and prussic acid. It is important to take precautions when using feeds that could contain one or both compounds.
Forage Resources for South Dakota Farmers and Ranchers
Producers often have difficulties locating fellow producers to buy, sell or rent forages and grazing acres too. South Dakota now has two widely recognized, free resources to aid in these connections.
SDSU Extension Announces Rangeland and Soils Day Results
June 14, 2021
The first place 4-H teams in each judging event from both contest locations will now advance to the National Land and Range Judging Contest in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma in May 2022.
Next SDSU Extension Drought Hour Set for June 28
June 17, 2021
Nearly 90% of South Dakota is now in some level of drought. According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, 56% of the state is in the Severe Drought (D2) and Extreme Drought (D3) classifications.
Nitrate QuikTest for Forages
The Nitrate QuikTest for Forages is available at various SDSU Extension locations and veterinary clinics across the state and is designed to be used with standing forages prior to harvesting for hay or grazing.
Straw Itch Mites
Straw itch mites, also known as hay mites or grain mites, can be a major problem when present in hay or grain. The best way to avoid a straw itch mite infestation is to keep commodities at low moisture levels and bale straw when it is thoroughly dry.
Frequently Asked Questions - Forage Nitrate Toxicity in Ruminant Livestock
A fact sheet to address frequently asked questions about forage nitrate toxicity in ruminant livestock.
Salvaging for Silage: Tips to Minimize Loss, Maximize Value
August 09, 2021
With South Dakota rangeland and pastures rated 84% poor to very poor across the state, many cattle producers may be thinking about putting up silage for a feed source.
Forage Inventory and Demand Calculator
Calculator for inventorying livestock and forage on hand to determine additional forage purchase needs, or livestock sales.