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A snowy farmyard with sunlight breaking through the clouds.

2018 Annual Climate Summary

In 2018, South Dakota saw the typical weather extremes of all kinds. New Year’s Day 2018 started out with record cold temperatures and wind chills; the year ended with a blizzard on December 31, with a lot of extremes in between.

A lawn with large patches of yellow and brown grass.

Dealing with Drought Stressed Lawns

Drought is a common concern across the region this summer affecting landscapes in many ways, but probably most noticeably in its impact on lawns.

A group of farmers and ranchers sitting at a meeting

Communication: Importance of Social Support in Agriculture

Maintaining open communication and seeking social support can help producers get through difficult times.

snow plow clearing a highway

Are you ready for winter? ¿Està listo para el invierno?

The first winter experience can be a challenge if you don’t know what is ahead, except for that there will be snow and cold. Some simple tips will help you survive the snow, ice and low temperatures.

Small group of cattle at pasture.

Feeding at the Right Price

Managing feedstuffs efficiently becomes more important during drought conditions or low revenue years.

A calf resting next to its mother in a dry pasture.

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.

Young calf resting at pasture.

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.

Woman preparing fresh herbs for canning in glass jars.

SDSU Extension offers training on updated Cottage Food Laws

October 23, 2023

South Dakota State University is providing training for food processors who would like to sell food products from their homes following updates to the state’s cottage food laws earlier this year.

Five jars of canned stewed tomatoes sitting on a gray kitchen towel with a gray background.

Canning on Smooth Stovetop

Learn about the Dos and Don'ts of canning on a smooth stovetop.

A woman safely placing a can of salsa into a water bath canner.

A Guide To Water Bath Canning

Water bath canners have fitted lids and removable wire racks. While they come in many sizes, the canner must be deep enough to allow a minimum of 1-2 inches of briskly boiling water that covers the top of jars during processing.