Conservation

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.

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.

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.

Backyard Natural Resources Webinar Series

Learn how to support healthy ecosystems in your backyard and beyond in this webinar series.

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.

SDSU Extension, SD Grassland Coalition sponsor Wallace Duck Day

June 27, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension and the South Dakota Grassland Coalition are excited to announce a conservation-focused bus tour as part of this year’s Duck Day in Wallace.