By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University is preparing to host the annual Cottonwood Field Station Field Day on June 12 near Philip, South Dakota. The event gives visitors a chance to explore newly renovated facilities and learn about current agricultural research projects focused on cattle and rangeland management.
The updated station now includes a monoslope feeding facility, modern animal handling areas, and a new multipurpose meeting space. These improvements help increase research capacity and improve daily operations at the station. Visitors attending the field day will be among the first to tour the renovated buildings and learn about future programs planned for the site.
“We are excited to showcase the new facilities at the station and offer a ‘sneak peek’ of upcoming research and events,” said Kristi Cammack, assistant dean for West River Operations.
The Cottonwood Field Station is unique because it focuses completely on range management research. The station manages two beef cattle herds, including an Angus cow-calf herd and a yearling steer herd used in a long-running stocking rate study that has continued for more than 80 years.
During the field day, university experts will share updates on important agricultural topics. Presentations will focus on drought monitoring and management, rangeland research, grazing systems, and the growing use of virtual fencing technology. Researchers and extension specialists will also demonstrate new tools and management practices that may help producers improve herd performance and land management.
“We hope attendees leave with updated, practical management strategies for their cow herd and rangeland, while continuing to ask new questions that can guide future research at the new facility,” said Erin DeHaan, an assistant professor and SDSU Extension beef specialist.
The field day is part of a larger summer event series hosted across South Dakota by the SDSU College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. Organizers encourage registration to help prepare food and educational materials for guests. Attendees will also have opportunities to win prizes and enjoy SDSU ice cream following the event. Registration for all of the field days is now available.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Weather