Conservation

All Conservation Content
Liquid manure injector applying manure into a field.

From Feed to Field: How Feed Management Supports Nutrient Cycling in Swine Production Systems

For swine systems, the relationship between feed and manure is especially important. Feed management, manure recycling, and conservation practices can work together to improve nutrient use efficiency and support long-term soil function.

Fog rising over a wooded peninsula at Lake Herman.

Seasonal Water Quality in Upper Midwest Shallow Prairie Lakes: What happens, why it matters, and what tools scientists use to monitor changes in lake water quality

Shallow prairie lakes across the Upper Midwest follow a predictable seasonal cycle driven by weather, nutrients, algae, and natural biological processes. Understanding this cycle helps lake users know what to expect, stay safe, and appreciate how lakes function.

Producers having a conversation while walking through a beef cattle feedlot.

A Roadmap to Becoming a USDA-NRCS Technical Service Provider for Feed Management

Agricultural professionals with expertise in livestock nutrition and feeding systems may become certified USDA-NRCS Technical Service Providers to assist producers with developing and implementing feed management conservation plans.

People sit at round tables with coffee cups and open notebooks

Registration still open for 2026 Eastern South Dakota Water Conference

September 25, 2026

Registration is still open for the 2026 Eastern South Dakota Water Conference on Oct. 7, 2026, in Brookings.

Grassed waterway leading to a large watershed in the distance.

Northern Plains Water Voice

SDSU Extension, in collaboration with its partners, will provide an educational video series on the issues and topics that impact water resources in South Dakota and the surrounding region.

a field in the fall with a small ditch with water flowing through it

25th annual Tri-State Drainage Research Forum brings latest research to Owatonna, Minnesota

August 24, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension invites the public to the 25th annual Tri-State Drainage Research Forum this fall in Minnesota.

Producers surveying a rangeland site.

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.

Algal bloom on a South Dakota lake

Beach Closings and Harmful Algal Blooms

Recently, the City of Mitchell issued a swimming advisory and public beach closing effective July 31, 2026. The reason for this was due to an elevated concentration of microcystin in the lake due to a harmful algal bloom (HAB).

A group of people listening to a presentation

Balancing economics with resources is theme of 2026 Eastern SD Water Conference

July 29, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension and the South Dakota Water Resources Institute at SDSU are excited to announce the theme of the 2026 Eastern South Dakota Water Conference: Balancing Economic Development with South Dakota Water Resources.

Black cattle grazing in a pasture

Conservation, Grazing, and Forage Situation

This report summarizes recent trends in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), harvested hay acreage, and grazing capacity in the United States and South Dakota. The purpose is to give a current picture of conservation enrollment and forage supply.