Content by Heather Gessner

Rancher looking at cattle in a pasture

Sustaining the Legacy

Agriculture is the lifeblood of South Dakota's economy. Sustaining the Legacy is the educational link to planning the continuance of multi-generational farming and ranching operations.

Farmer signing a lease on the tailgate of a pickup.

Oral Lease Agreements Automatically Renew on September 1, 2024

September 1 is the automatic renewal date for all oral land lease agreements in South Dakota. If landowners or renters wish to make changes to the components of the lease, written notice must be given by the September 1 deadline.

Ranch family examining data on a smart phone.

Feed Costs Still a Large Percentage of the Cow Budget

Monitoring, managing, and minimizing feed costs while maintaining a balanced ration is one way to maximize profit potential in the cow herd. Learn some expert tips for creating a least-cost ration.

An older producer and his grandson having a discussion on their family farm.

Compensation for Family Members Returning to the Farm

Compensating for management and labor is one of the questions that must be answered when bringing a family member into the family operation.

Small herd of cattle grazing in a snow covered field

SDSU Extension discusses new Weaned Calf Risk Protection Insurance

November 06, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension will discuss the new Weaned Calf Risk Protection Insurance product during its November session of Ag Economic Dialogues.

Cattle grazing late-fall pasture.

Pasture Conditions and Grazing Opportunities

Fall rains across South Dakota have provided some much-needed soil moisture improvement. Learn some expert tips for taking advantage of late-season grazing opportunities on pasture and rangeland.

Three generations of a family farm standing in a field

SDSU Extension continues Sustaining the Legacy conferences for farmers and ranchers

September 12, 2023

From successfully transferring operations to the next generation to providing for children who didn’t stay on the farm or ranch, South Dakota State University Extension’s Sustaining the Legacy program can help.

Bird's eye view of Dakotafest

SDSU Extension booth at 2023 Dakotafest to feature livestock, soil and range experts

August 07, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension experts will be at the 2023 Dakotafest to provide information on a range of agricultural and economic issues, from the use of prescribed fire to livestock to weed and soil management.

Black angus cow with pinkeye and flies throughout its body.

What Does Pinkeye Cost?

A common disease during fly season, pinkeye in cattle can have a measurable impact on profits. A recent research project investigated the impact of eye issues on sale barn prices to find out just how much.

South Dakota State University Extension logo

SDSU Extension hosts Sustaining the Legacy Conference

May 01, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension will host the next Sustaining the Legacy program June 7-8, 2023, at the Dakota Lodge in Lemmon, South Dakota.