Drought: Home and Community

All Drought: Home and Community Content

an image of outdoor weather monitoring equipment in a field

Climate and Weather

View resources to predict, prepare and recover from weather-related events year-round, including the latest drought and flood information.

Canned vegetables on a grocery store shelf.

Shelf-Stable Foods Save Money and Help Families Stay Prepared

Many people may find themselves feeling worried or concerned about having enough food in their homes. One way to help with these worries and concerns is to purchase canned or dried foods also known as shelf-stable items.

A whiteboard outside a home pantry with a shopping list and a stock list.

Helpful Food & Shopping Tips During Unexpected Events

When faced with unexpected events, such as a health crisis or natural disaster, planning meals and grocery shopping often comes to mind along with questions: What should I plan to make? What groceries do I need?

Silhoutte of mother and daughter holding hands at sunset.

Helping Kids Cope and Understand Family Stressors

South Dakota and many of our neighboring states experience natural disasters and agricultural family stress. While we know this can cause added stress on adults and parents, don’t forget to visit with your children of all ages and help them cope with the added stress and changes in their routine.

Mother and young daughter wearing masks in an outdoor park.

Helping Kids Deal With Change

As we are all going through these times of change and uncertainty, remember to talk to your child or children in your care and don’t just avoid the behaviors.

Color-coded drought monitor map of South Dakota. As of March 29, northwest to southeast South Dakota are facing severe drought to abnormally dry conditions, while the northeast is under normal conditions.

Drought

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

Vast winter prairie on the Rosebud Reservation.

Climate Resilience Toolkit for the Northern Plains Region

In September 2021, the U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit announced the publication of a new Northern Great Plains Region section. The new section can help producers recognize climate hazards, assess vulnerabilities and confront risks.

Stream running through West River South Dakota rangeland.

Water Rights in a Time of Drought

During a drought, it is not surprising that the South Dakota Water Rights Program will see an increase in permit applications. In South Dakota, water is considered the property of the people of the state, and depending on your intended water use, a water right permit may be needed.

Color-coded drought monitor map of South Dakota. As of April 29, Northwest South Dakota is facing extreme drought, while the rest of the state is under abnormally dry to severe drought conditions.

SDSU Extension to Resume Drought Hour in May

April 29, 2021

According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, nearly 95% of South Dakota is in some level of drought, including 19.42% that is classified as Extreme Drought (D3) in the north central region.

Color-coded drought monitor map of South Dakota. As of April first, Northeast South Dakota is facing extreme drought, while the rest of the state is under abnormally dry to severe drought conditions.

SDSU Extension Launches Drought Hour Webinar Series April 12

April 06, 2021

SDSU Extension’s Drought Hour webinar series will provide the latest climate outlook, market insights and proactive moisture management planning for farms, ranches and properties of all sizes.