New specialist to strengthen SDSU crop support

By Scout Nelson

SDSU Extension is excited to announce the appointment of Clarence Winter as the new Agronomy Field Specialist.

Based at the West River Research and Extension in Rapid City, Winter will play a key role in assisting crop producers across central and western South Dakota, with a particular focus on soil fertility and cropping systems adapted to arid environments.

Winter brings a wealth of experience and local knowledge to his new role. He grew up on a no-till farm near Martin, South Dakota, and has a robust educational background, having earned a bachelor’s degree in agronomy with a minor in precision agriculture, followed by a master’s in plant science from SDSU.

His research during his tenure as a graduate research assistant at the Dakota Lakes Research Farm focused on phosphorus efficiency, providing him with a deep understanding of nutrient management.

His professional experience is complemented by internships at prominent agricultural organizations, including ABG Ag Services in Toronto, South Dakota, the USDA-Agricultural Research Service, and Pivot Bio, both in Brookings. These roles have equipped him with a comprehensive view of the agricultural landscape, from government research to innovative biotech solutions.

"One of the great things about this position is having an unbiased approach to solving problems that farmers may have," Winter commented, highlighting his commitment to providing practical, research-based solutions to the agricultural community.

Sandy Smart, SDSU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Senior Program Leader and professor, expressed enthusiasm about Winter's addition to the team. "We are very excited to have him join the SDSU Extension agronomy team to help producers find solutions to crop production issues in the central and western part of South Dakota," Smart said.

Winter's appointment at SDSU Extension is a significant boost to the state's mission to promote sustainable agricultural practices, with his expertise in soil science and agronomy expected to significantly enhance crop productivity in South Dakota's challenging climates.

Photo Credit -south-dakota-state-university