Conservation
All Conservation Content
Has a New Pathway for Increased Mercury in Fish Been Found?
There is growing evidence that zebra mussels may be affecting the level of mercury in fish tissue by altering contaminant cycling in inland lakes. While the mechanism of this increase needs to be further studied, it likely means that fish consumption advisories will increase for those lakes invaded by zebra mussels.
A Strategic Community-Based Survey of Water Resource Management in South Dakota
Understanding how residents value water is critical for effective resource management, and your insights can help us better understand community values and inform future strategies for sustainable water management across the state.
Getting Started With Bison Ranching
While bison ranching has some similarities with cattle ranching, there are significant differences that must be accounted for to ensure long-term sustainability and profitability.
Prairie Pothole Wetlands: Small Basins, Big Impact
The benefits of prairie wetlands extend far beyond wildlife. These wetlands filter pollutants and excess nutrients from agricultural and urban runoff, trap sediment, recharge groundwater, and store floodwater.
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.
South Dakota Student Water Conference
The South Dakota Student Water Conference will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the University Student Union (1421 Student Union Ln, Brookings, SD 57007).
Eastern South Dakota Water Conference
The Eastern South Dakota Water Conference will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the McCrory Gardens Education and Visitor Center (631 22nd Ave., Brookings, SD 57006).
Natural Resources & Conservation
South Dakota is home to many unique land, water and wildlife resources. Our experts and partners offer research-based information through to help people enjoy, preserve and profit from these natural resources.
Private Property vs. Public Access: Managing Non-Meandering Waters in South Dakota's Prairie Pothole Region
Fact sheet on managing non-meandering waters in South Dakota's prairie pothole region.
The Importance of Fish for Native Freshwater Mussel Reproduction
To reproduce, freshwater mussels rely on fish to carry their young into new areas and disperse them when they are old enough. By conserving suitable fish habitat, it also allows us to indirectly conserve mussels by providing necessary resources for mussels to reproduce.