Drought: Crops

Feeding Drought-Stressed Corn to Livestock

Drought-stressed corn can remain a valuable forage resource when harvested and stored appropriately. Successful utilization depends on careful management, including harvesting at the proper moisture content, achieving adequate packing density, and excluding oxygen during storage.

Using Drought-Stressed Corn as Forage

Drought-stressed corn is a common challenge during dry growing seasons, but it does not necessarily result in a total loss of feed value. With proper harvest and storage management, drought-damaged corn can remain a useful and economical forage source.

Annual Forage Rainfall Index Insurance: A Risk Management Tool for South Dakota Producers

Drought remains a recurring challenge for South Dakota livestock and forage producers. Annual Forage Rainfall Index insurance is one tool that may help reduce the financial risk associated with below-average precipitation.

Drought Stress in Wheat Leads to Increased Banks Grass Mite Activity

There have been reports of large populations of Banks grass mites in South Dakota wheat fields. Banks grass mite populations are more successful during hot, dry weather that also increases the susceptibility of wheat due to it being drought stressed.

Climate and Drought Update: July 2026

On June 18, 2026, NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center released their latest climate outlook for July and the coming three-month season through September.

Drought

Stay ahead of drought impacts with SDSU Extension's timely climate updates, business insights and research-tested management tips.

How to Maintain Soil Health During Dry Growing Conditions

Adopting soil health practices can help to reduce the loss of valuable topsoil by wind erosion during droughts. Learn how to manage your fields now or in the future to maintain soil health during periods of dry times.

Agronomic Considerations During Drought

Despite technological advances, weather factors still play a major role in crop production, especially during dry times. Making smart agronomic decisions can prevent a drought situation from getting worse.

Brown Wheat Mites Detected in South Dakota Wheat

Brown wheat mite infestations have been detected in South Dakota wheat. Typically, infestations are more commonly observed in fields experiencing drought stress, which is currently most of the state

South Dakota Grasshopper Prediction for 2026

Almost every year in South Dakota there is a risk that grasshopper populations will reach levels capable of causing issues for producers. Unfortunately, our prediction for the 2026 growing season won’t change the trend.