Learning Grazing Math and Soil Care at Rosebud Workshop

By Scout Nelson

The eighth annual Rosebud Range Workshop, hosted by South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension with partners, was held on July 16, 2025, at the Rosebud Sioux Tribal Ranch. The event gave participants a chance to learn about the importance of rangelands through practical demonstrations and hands-on education.

The workshop included two sessions, one for adults in the morning and one for youth in the afternoon. Adults began their session with “grazing math,” led by SDSU Extension Range Field Specialist Kaylee Wheeler. 

Using tools such as grazing sticks and the clip-and-weigh method, participants learned how to calculate forage production and proper stocking rates for livestock. Wheeler emphasized that knowing both available forage and livestock needs is key to good grazing management.

The session also included plant identification, led by experts from SDSU Extension and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Adults learned to identify grasses and forbs, while also exploring their grazing value, cultural importance, and even medicinal or edible benefits.

A highlight of the morning was the rainfall simulator demonstration led by Tanse Herrmann, NRCS State Grazinglands Soil Health Specialist. Using soil samples from different management practices, the demonstration showed how healthy soils absorb water while degraded soils experience more runoff. The lesson stressed the role of soil health in sustainable land management.

The afternoon youth session focused on the basics of rangeland ecosystems, including the roles of grasses, forbs, and shrubs. Youth also received educational kits and explored fun activities from the South Dakota Grasslands Initiative. A popular activity, “Critter Scene Investigation,” encouraged children to use animal tracks and other clues to solve rangeland mysteries.

Ron Frederick, SDSU Extension 4-H Educator, noted the value of the event. He called it an excellent outdoor classroom that helps participants of all ages connect with the land and its lessons.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki