Forage
You Can’t Manage What You Don’t Measure: Range Record Keeping
Range record keeping helps detect and demonstrate landscape changes that have a direct impact on your ability to maintain or grow your herd.
Forage
SDSU Extension works with forage producers, providing them with access to quick tests, research-based information, and best management practices to help maximize yields and nutritional quality of forages.
Crops
During the growing season, SDSU Extension provides weekly production recommendations.
Northern Plains Forage Association Annual Meeting
The Northern Plains Forage Association will host its annual meeting and educational seminars January 13-14, 2027 at the Brandon Holiday Inn Express (1103 N Splitrock Blvd, Brandon, SD 57005).
Ditch Hay: Hidden Value or Hidden Risk?
Ditch hay can make an excellent feed resource during years when forage supplies are limited. However, quality testing and proper ration formulation are essential in determining how useful it can be to your operation.
Pasture, Rangeland and Forage – Rainfall Index Crop Insurance Program: Overview and Guidelines for South Dakota Producers
The Pasture, Rangeland and Forage – Rainfall Index crop insurance program has been available in South Dakota since 2013, and some South Dakota producers have used its payouts to protect their operation from the risks of forage loss when rainfall falls below the local average.
Hidden Dangers of Prussic Acid
Prussic acid is a herbivory defense mechanism used by numerous plant species, but is most-associated with sorghum and sudangrass hybrids. While the risk of prussic acid poisoning is greatest in sorghum species, several additional species present across South Dakota can produce prussic acid at varying levels of concern.
Making Alfalfa Part of Your Grazing Plan
Alfalfa is a highly nutritious forage option. Most commonly, alfalfa is used as a harvested feed resource, but when strategically managed, it can make a great grazing opportunity for producers.
End-of-Season Alfalfa Management
It's time to plan our end-of-season alfalfa management strategy, and with it come the questions: 'Should I make another cutting?' 'When should I cut?' and 'How much time does my stand have left?'
Prussic Acid Poisoning
As the first frost date approaches, producers often have concerns about the risk of prussic acid poisoning in livestock. Certain forage plants, especially sorghums and related species are associated with an increased risk of death loss because of prussic acid poisoning.