Content by Laura Edwards

Color-coded map of South Dakota indicating the number of classes of change in drought conditions from June 3 to September 2, 2025. For a detailed description, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

Summer 2025 Climate Review and September Outlook

A record wet August in several locations marked the end of South Dakota’s meteorological summer. One challenge coming this fall will be determining how quickly field and crop conditions dry down to allow harvest activities to progress.

Color-coded map showing precipitation outlook for the United States. For a detailed description, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

May 2025 Drought and Climate Update

Drought has plagued South Dakota since last year’s growing season. While producers welcome a spell of dry weather for planting spring crops at this time of year, recent moisture will not be enough to carry through the growing season.

Snow-covered landscape along the Missouri River in Central South Dakota.

2024 Annual Climate Review

The final climate numbers are in for 2024. Learn what the year brought for temperatures, precipitation, and drought conditions throughout the state.

Owners of a specialty crop farm smiling at each other in a small on-farm market as a customer shops in the background.

Resources to Stay Safe on Specialty Crop Farms

When was the last time you’ve thought about safety on your farm? View a collection of science-based safety resources for small and medium-scale commercial specialty crop farms from the field to the market.

Storm clouds gathering over a vast, green field.

North Central Ag and Climate Conference brings together best regional research and outreach

June 05, 2024

South Dakota State University Extension invites agriculture and climate professionals to attend the North Central Agriculture and Climate Conference.

Rancher viewing data on a laptop on the seat of his truck.

Online Tools To Help With Rangeland Drought Planning

Learn about some free online tools that producers can use to assess drought conditions, evaluate forage resources, and manage herds through periods of abnormally dry weather.

A red tractor and seed drill planting in a no-till field.

Spring 2024 Climate Outlook

A very warm winter is just about to end as we look ahead toward what’s to come in the spring season.

Sun rises over a frost-dusted pasture.

Last Spring Frost Dates

Knowing the historical last spring frost dates for your area helps growers avoid the risk of frost damage for above-ground vegetation, whether it's for agriculture or horticulture.

Color-coded map of South Dakota’s plant hardiness zones.

2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones

Winter and spring are a great time for planning new garden and landscape designs. Learn how recent updates to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zones may have South Dakota gardeners feeling extra adventurous when selecting new plants for their gardens this season!

South Dakota State University Extension logo

SDSU Extension staff members win national agricultural association awards

October 23, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources experts were recognized nationally for their excellence in outreach and Extension programming.