By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University Extension helped plan the 47th annual Ranchers Workshop in Mission, where 65 people from the region attended the event. The workshop focused on providing useful information to farmers and ranchers, with attention to family, finance, production, and natural resources.
The event was held on Jan. 21, 2026, at the Todd County Fairgrounds with the theme “Youth, Our Investment in the Future.” The program aimed to highlight the importance of young people in agriculture and to support the next generation of producers.
The morning session began with Brian and Erica Ingerson, a father and daughter team, who shared their experience of working together in a custom welding business. Erica completed an entrepreneurship program and now works with her father full time. Their story showed how family businesses can grow through education and teamwork.
Participants also listened to an animal health update from a state veterinarian. He discussed key concerns such as new world screwworm, avian influenza, and brucellosis. He explained how routine testing helped manage disease and protect livestock health.
After lunch, a financial expert discussed challenges faced by young producers. Starting a farm business often requires strong financial planning, but support programs and funding opportunities were available to help new farmers begin their operations.
The workshop also included a session on virtual fencing. This new technology helped manage livestock grazing without physical fences and offered better control over land use.
The Ranchers Workshop began in 1979 as a small local meeting and later grew into an well-established annual event. It continued to serve producers by sharing knowledge and addressing their needs.
Overall, the workshop provided valuable learning, encouraged innovation, and supported the future of agriculture.
For additional details or to share feedback for the 2027 Ranchers Workshop, individuals may email Ron Frederick, SDSU Extension 4-H Educator for Todd County, at Ronald.Frederick@sdstate.edu, or Kaylee Wheeler, SDSU Extension Range Field Specialist, at kaylee.wheeler@sdstate.edu.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-alotofpeople
Categories: South Dakota, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety