Beef Industry and General Management

All Beef Industry and General Management Content

Hand presenting a GPS tracking tag on a black heifer cow.

GPS Tracking Ear Tags in Beef Cattle Production

GPS tracking ear tags are an exciting advancement in precision livestock technology that can improve operational efficiency, provide real-time animal monitoring, and generate alerts when animals leave designated areas.

Black and white scan of Cottonwood Field Station soil map.

Range Roundup: Long-Term Grazing Records Can Guide Future Management

For nearly 80 years, researchers at the Cottonwood Field Station have monitored how different stocking rates have shaped plant communities. Today, these records are being compared with modern data to help us better understand how rangelands respond to long-term grazing management.

Winter Pasture Report: How Winter Moisture Shapes Spring Grazing Decisions

While many people are happy to welcome a mild winter devoid of typical South Dakota blizzards, a lack of moisture is concerning as we look ahead to spring.

Cattle grazing corn residue in late fall.

Why Cropland Grazing Now?

The evidence is consistent: cropland grazing delivers measurable economic returns, proven soil health benefits, and growing adoption in South Dakota.

Group of cattle grazing corn stalks near Pierre, South Dakota.

Stretch the Grazing Season by Grazing Corn Residue

Grazing corn residue can be an excellent strategy for stretching the grazing season. Learn some expert tips for making the most of corn residue before switching over to the feed tractor in the winter.

Small group of cattle grazing fall pasture.

Fall Pasture Report: Considerations for Dormant Season Grazing

Recent fall rains across the region continue to improve soil moisture conditions in preparation for the dormant season. Unlike in years past, a fall green up has been in full swing for much of the region.

Four people stand on the 20-yard line of a football field. There are two men on the far left and far right. In the middle is a man handing a woman a wooden plaque in the shape of South Dakota.

Rook named 2025 Friend of the Beef Industry

September 15, 2025

Michelle Rook has been named the 2025 Recipient of the South Dakota State University Friend of the Beef Industry award for her contributions to the South Dakota beef industry.

Purchasing Bred Females

Weaning time is here and the decision to retain or sell heifers is front and center. Regardless of your decision, there is opportunity to purchase bred females and increase the calves available to market next season in a strong market.

A photo of two beef cattle with their heads in a typical feeder that contains golden-brown hay.

Feed Management for Efficient U.S. Livestock Systems: Introducing the National Animal Nutrition Program’s Feed Management Committee

The National Animal Nutrition Program’s Feed Management Committee brings together experts in animal science, nutrition, and natural resource management to increase awareness and use of livestock feeding management and to address conservation needs.

Producer observing a group of cattle in a holding pen.

Receiving Management Matters

There are multiple factors that influence cattle help during transportation and receiving. Proper management during these events can avoid negative implications to health and performance.