By Scout Nelson
Cover crops play an essential role in building healthy soils, conserving moisture, and promoting sustainability in modern agriculture. To help farmers and students better understand these benefits, South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension will host a Cover Crop Field Day at the SDSU Northeast Research Farm on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CDT.
The event, located at 15710 455th Avenue, South Shore, SD 57263, invites agricultural producers, educators, and students to explore how cover crops can improve long-term soil fertility and enhance farm profitability.
Participants will gain practical insights into soil health improvement through live field demonstrations and expert-led discussions. Topics will include soil structure enhancement, nutrient retention, erosion prevention, and the role of diverse cover crop species in crop rotation systems.
The field day aims to provide attendees with actionable strategies for incorporating cover crops into their farming operations. Specialists will explain how cover crops reduce input costs, promote beneficial microorganisms, and improve water infiltration, leading to more resilient farming systems.
Hans Klopp, SDSU Extension Soil Health Field Specialist, will guide attendees through the event and share key research findings from ongoing projects at the Northeast Research Farm.
The program is free and open to the public, offering an excellent opportunity to network with peers, ask questions, and learn about sustainable soil management practices directly from experts.
This educational event reflects SDSU Extension’s ongoing commitment to advancing soil health and sustainable agriculture across South Dakota.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Sustainable Agriculture