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SDSU Extension

Latest Recommendations

2025 Rangeland Grasshopper Hazard map. Photo Courtesy of USDA APHIS, PPQ.  ALT TEXT: Map of South Dakota of Northern Great Plains and the Western United States. Colors indicate the number of grasshoppers per square yard in each of the sampled locations. For a detailed description, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

South Dakota Grasshopper Prediction for 2025

In 2025, it is likely that grasshopper populations will once again reach levels capable of causing issues in some areas of the state. Scouting should begin shortly after planting in areas where they were problematic in 2024 and continue throughout the growing season.

State 4-H Ambassador sitting at a table filling out an application

Become a State 4-H Ambassador

Curious about what it takes to become a South Dakota State 4-H Ambassador? View the position descriptions, term timeline, and application process.

A bottle of vitamin d supplements on a kitchen countertop with a cut of fresh salmon, eggs, a glass of milk, and a block of cheese.

Understanding Vitamin D: An essential nutrient you might be missing

Do you feel tired or low on energy, especially in the winter? You might not be getting enough vitamin D. This important vitamin helps your body stay strong and healthy.

Cucumbers growing on a vine in a garden.

Cucumbers: How to Grow It

Some cucumber varieties form long vines that may ramble or be trellised. Others are bush types that fit more easily into a small garden or even a large container.

Young woman demonstrating the reclined side leg raise exercise. For a complete description, call SDSU Extension at 605-688-6729.

Build Strength Without Using Weights!

Good news! You can use your own body weight to help build strong muscles and bones, no equipment needed!

Large, green dandelion floret growing in a yard.

Spring Dandelion Control

If dandelions are present on your property this spring, an herbicide application may be worthwhile, because it can kill above-ground growth, meaning a reduced likelihood for seed production that will worsen problem.

Our Impact

As the outreach arm of our state’s land grant, South Dakota State University, SDSU Extension is able to provide farmers, ranchers, agri-business people, communities, families and youth with the research-based information they need to succeed.

    216,854

    Individuals Reached

    $5,909,271.50

    Value of Volunteer Hours

    114,099

    Adult and Youth Educational Contacts

Explore Our Impacts

Further Reading

sun rising over South Dakota field

South Dakota Pest Management Guides

The South Dakota Pest Management guides are now available for free. The guides offer recommendations for controlling weeds, insects, and diseases in a variety of South Dakota crops.

stack of coins with faded chart lines showing in the foreground

South Dakota Agricultural Land Market Trends

The 2024 South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension Farm Real Estate Market Survey is the 34th annual survey of agricultural land values and cash rental rates by land use and quality in different regions of South Dakota.

man holding a small pile of soil in his hands

Fertilizer Recommendation Guide

SDSU Extension fertilizer recommendations are based on field research in South Dakota and neighboring states.

A low-gradient prairie river that is very meandering.

Understanding Western South Dakota Prairie Streams

This document provides information and guidance for landowners and land managers in western South Dakota who are managing small intermittent streams.

Upcoming Events

Monarch butterfly visiting a blanket flower near a backyard garden.
May 06

Backyard Natural Resources Webinar Series

Join SDSU Extension to learn about soil health in your garden, water use, bugs and climate. This four-part educational series will be held from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. CDT on May 6, 8, 13 and 15, 2025.

SDSU Extension Master Gardeners selling plants at the 2022 Garden Discovery Festival
May 18

Garden Discovery Festival @ McCrory Gardens

SDSU Extension and McCrory Gardens are kicking off the summer programming with Garden Discovery Festival on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. CDT at McCrory Gardens (631 22nd Ave, Brookings, SD 57007).

beef cattle in a feedlot
May 15

Monitoring Range Conditions and Annual Forage Considerations Cattle HQ Live

Join SDSU Extension's beef team to gain valuable insights to improve the health, productivity and profitability of your herd.

female rancher with young female training reviewing paperwork beside a cow pasture
May 16

Ag Economic Dialogues - May

This free, 1-hour webinar was created to assist farmers and ranchers in making the best and most profitable decisions for their operations.