By Scout Nelson
As South Dakota enters May 2025, dry weather continues to affect grassland conditions. The South Dakota Grassland Productivity Map, available through the NRCS website, shows lower-than-normal forage production based on a two-year average of rainfall data.
These maps focus on grassland and pasture areas—not cropland—and measure quantity, not forage quality.
Emily Rohrer, State Rangeland Specialist, encourages producers to take proactive steps to reduce stress on both plants and animals.
She advises scheduling proper rest periods for pastures after grazing and suggests rotating herds more frequently or combining herds to lessen pressure on dry land. Using alternative forages is another option, but Rohrer reminds producers to test for nitrates before turning animals out.
Several events across the state offer hands-on training and support. The Young Adult Ranching for Profit Workshop will be held in Faith, South Dakota, from June 2 to 5 for ages 18 to 30.
Youth can also join the South Dakota Rangeland and Soils Days in Belle Fourche on June 10 and 11. The South Dakota Grassland Coalition is hosting three Grazing Schools this year, with the first in Wall from June 17 to 19.
These events give participants the tools to build healthier pastures and manage livestock more effectively, even during drought.
For additional help, producers can contact local NRCS conservationists or extension specialists. They can also explore mentoring options through the SD Soil Health Coalition’s Growing Connections app or the South Dakota Grassland Coalition’s mentoring network.
Photo Credit: grassland-coalition
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, General, Weather