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Content by Kara Harders

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.

2024 Energize conference attendees

SDSU Extension accepting applications for 2025 Energize conference hosts

July 08, 2024

South Dakota State University Extension Community Vitality is accepting applications from communities that would like to host the 2025 Energize conference.

A mother and daughter exploring the Freeman Prairie Arboretum.

The Value of Placemaking in Small Rural Communities in South Dakota

Placemaking offers a transformative approach for small rural communities in South Dakota, turning public spaces into cherished community assets. Learn about some success stories in the Freeman and Webster communities.

A woman stands in a clothing store behind a pink shirt with geometric patterns

Energize conference inspires new Wessington Springs business owner

April 24, 2024

Dacia Mitchell opened Modest Moxie, a clothing boutique, in Wessington Springs after attending the 2023 SDSU Extension Energize conference.