Soil Health

All Soil Health Content

Herd of beef cattle wearing virtual fence collars standing in a field

Dec 08

Managing Soil: Maximizing Profit Meeting & Southeast Research Farm Annual Business Meeting

The Managing Soil: Maximizing Profit Meeting will be held on December 8 from 9:15 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Swan Lake Christian Camp (45474 288th St., Viborg, SD 57070). The Southeast Research Farm Annual Business Meeting will also occur from 12:45 to 1:00 p.m.

Group of cattle grazing corn stalks near Pierre, South Dakota.

Grazing Corn Residue: Connecting Crops, Cattle, and Soil

As corn harvest wraps up, remember that the value of the crop doesn’t have to end when the grain leaves the field. With intentional grazing management, the post-harvest residue can become part of another production cycle that connects crops, cattle, economics, and soil.

Cover crop mixture growing in a sprawling field.

Cover Crop Economics: Costs, Benefits, and Cost‑Share Programs

Cover crops are gaining attention across South Dakota as more producers look for ways to improve soil health, manage risk, and strengthen long-term productivity. Research consistently shows that cover crops improve soil structure, increase water holding capacity, reduce erosion, and help buffer crop losses during drought or extreme weather.

Corn residue resting in a partially harvested cornfield.

Consider Skipping Fall Tillage and Leaving Crop Residue in the Field

Leaving crop residue in the field and reducing or eliminating fall tillage can help dramatically improve soil health. Over time, these practices can increase soil organic matter, improve water-holding capacity, enhance infiltration, and reduce water loss through evaporation.