Conservation

All Conservation Content

Rangeland and Soils Days participants observing rangeland.

Range Roundup: Opportunities for Youth

There are several opportunities for youth in South Dakota to get exposed to rangeland ecology and management, with involvement from several partners across the state. Learn about some exciting opportunities offered each year!

A vast, rolling, well-managed rangeland.

Range Beef Cow Research: Rangeland Soil Health

For rangelands to maintain productivity and produce adequate levels of forage, soil health must be sustained and function properly.

Lush, riparian vegetation growing alongside a stream running through rangeland.

Ranching and Prairie Streams: Riparian Vegetation

Riparian vegetation consists of the collection of plants that thrive along streams, riverbanks, and wetlands. Learn about the many ecological benefits this vegetation provides.

Variety of native plants growing in a healthy, well-managed grassland.

A Quick Start Guide to Selling Native Seeds

Guide that details what you need to know to sell seeds of native flowering plants (forbs) in South Dakota.

Two pastures separated by a fence. The right pasture is severely overgrazed, while the neighboring pasture has more cover, but has also developed an invasive weed problem.

The Lasting Effects of Overgrazing on Rangeland Ecosystems

Overgrazing can cause various detrimental effects on rangeland ecosystems. Most of the effects are seen in the short term, but some are unseen and can be lasting.

Cattle grazing snow-dusted winter pasture.

Protecting Your Pastures While Winter Grazing

Winter grazing of stockpiled grass produced during the growing season can help extend the grazing season and reduce winter feed costs. Learn some strategies to successfully incorporate winter grazing into your operation.

Well-managed grassland area adjacent to a wetland.

Managing Livestock Attractants Near Water

In the event that your pasture includes riparian areas, such as streams, rivers, lakes or ponds, you’ll want to take special care of these habitats. A riparian area is the space immediately adjacent to the shore, where water and land interact.

Bee hives placed in a grassland property.

Grassland Goods and Services

Grasslands, whether in the form of pastureland, rangeland or various conservation program or habitat lands are important ecosystems that provide a variety of goods and services.

Herd of cattle grazing in a pasture rotation.

General Principals of Grazing Management

Grazing involves a number of variables, including land carrying capacity, type and distribution of the livestock, water distribution and number of pastures. A combination of proper grazing techniques and grassland management will improve harvest efficiency and lower production costs.

Pollinator and Wildlife Habitat signs in a bed of plants and yellow flowers.

Funding Opportunities for Small-Scale Pollinator Habitats: A Guide for Urban and Home Garden Projects

Urban habitats are essential for providing food, shelter, and breeding grounds for important pollinators. Learn about some of the many funding opportunities available for urban pollinator habitat projects of all sizes and scopes.