Content by Sarah Sellars

Endorsement Trends in South Dakota Crop Insurance

Recently there has been an increase in the use of endorsements on corn crop insurance policies. The dominant base- or farm-level coverage remains Revenue Protection. High crop margins corresponded with an increased use of margin-related endorsements. Large subsidy increases have encouraged the purchase of other endorsements.

Internet Access in South Dakota

The percentage of the population without an internet subscription varies considerably across South Dakota. The regional disparities observed in South Dakota are consistent with a previous USDA report showing lower household internet subscription rates in counties with persistently high poverty rates.

Does It Pay to Build Up Soil Phosphorus in High-pH Fields?

In high-pH soils, Phosphorus fertilizer can react with calcium already in the soil and form compounds that crops cannot easily use. It means that applied Phosphorus fertilizer can become “tied up” in the soil, leaving many farmers wondering whether the fertilizer they pay for is really working for them.

SDSU Extension collecting custom farming rates through new survey

March 16, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension is collecting data on the state’s custom farming rates and inviting producers to participate.

Custom Rates Survey

SDSU Extension is conducting a survey to better understand current custom rates charged for various crop and livestock operations performed on farms and ranches in South Dakota.

SDSU Extension collaborates with AARP South Dakota and rural libraries to provide better internet access

February 17, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension is collaborating with AARP South Dakota and South Dakota’s public libraries to give the state’s rural citizens better access to the internet.

Changes to the Commodity Title from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Impact on South Dakota crops

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act contains several changes to the Title I Commodity Programs. Learn how these changes may impact crops in South Dakota compared to crops grown in other regions in the United States.

An Analysis of Margin Protection Crop Insurance on Corn and Soybeans in South Dakota

Margin protection crop insurance, an endorsement/policy that insures producers against rising input costs, is growing in popularity in South Dakota. Recent research investigated how South Dakota margin protection payouts compared to our neighboring states.

Cybersecurity Planning: Securing the Future

With reliance on digital technologies, precision agriculture requires securing data and implementing key strategies to safeguard digital assets and maintain operational integrity and confidentiality.