Content by Kara Harders

Dave Anderson, President, Mt. Vernon Economic Development Group

South Dakota Newcomers Survey Report

Results from the 2024 state-wide Newcomer Survey, which was administered to gain a better understanding of the newcomer population in South Dakota.

Group of farm employees and managers gathered at a table.

Building and Retaining a Skilled Agricultural Workforce: Challenges and Strategies

Building a strong, motivated workforce is essential to the future of agriculture. A team from SDSU Extension is exploring the challenges and opportunities facing our agricultural community.

Aerial view of the Wall high school and athletic complex
May 06

Energize Conference

SDSU Extension will host the next annual Energize conference on May 6–7, 2026, in Wall, South Dakota.

a small brown and yellow duckling in water with green foliage behind it

From Canvases to Conservation, Champions of Ducks: Adam and Madison Grimm

On this episode of Home Starts Here, Kara Harders chats with South Dakota’s dynamic wildlife‑art father-daughter duo, Adam and Madison Grimm. Residents of Wallace, SD, a town of just 94 people.

Light bulb on a chalk board with several blank thought bubbles drawn on it.

Think Better, Question Smarter: Why Critical Thinking Matters

Critical thinking is one of the most valuable skills you can have. It helps you pause, reflect, ask the right questions, and make choices you can stand behind.

Three people smile for the camera; the woman in the middle holds up a certificate in a glass frame

Watertown entrepreneur wins SDSU Extension business plan contest

March 24, 2025

A Watertown woman won a South Dakota State University Extension Community Vitality business plan contest with her compelling plan for a cancer support group.

A single, gold wooden figure stands before a group of several wood figures, symbolizing the autocratic leadership style.

No One is Never a Leader

Leadership isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. Whether you're managing a project, organizing a community event, leading a team at work, or planning something with your family, there are many ways to approach leadership.

A group of friends gathered inside for a holiday meal.

Thriving in the Cold: How Northern Cultures Build Community to Combat Winter Isolation

Whether it's sharing a meal, enjoying the outdoors, or simply staying in touch, winter is an opportunity to foster connections and build resilience in South Dakota communities.

A small group of children at daycare.

Childcare Survey Reports

Survey reports that aim to understand the current landscape of childcare in the state, focusing on availability, cost, quality, and impact on families and the economy.

Baby seated at a highchair with a variety of soft, cut-up foods on its tray.

SDSU Extension working to bolster rural child care needs in South Dakota

September 05, 2024

South Dakota needs more child care providers, and SDSU Extension is part of a growing collaboration to meet that need.