By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University Extension is bringing back its popular Crop Hour webinar series for 2026. The series starts on January 6 and offers free online learning for farmers, Certified Crop Advisers, and anyone interested in crop production. These sessions help producers stay informed during the winter season and prepare for the year ahead.
Crop Hour webinars run from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. CST every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday through February 26. Participants may join live through Zoom or watch recorded sessions on YouTube. Registration is required in order to receive the Zoom link, and all details are available on the SDSU Extension Events page by searching “crop hour.”
Certified Crop Advisers can earn continuing education credits by attending. They may purchase the full 24-credit package for $200 or pay $30 for a single session. A payment link is shared at the end of each webinar to make the process simple.
SDSU Extension specialists say Crop Hour gives producers a chance to learn from home during the slower winter months. The sessions provide regional information that helps farmers plan for spring and understand the challenges ahead. Local experts lead the webinars and answer questions in real time, creating an interactive learning space.
Entering its sixth year, the program covers a new topic each week. Weekly themes include weed management, soils and water, insect pests, plant diseases, horticulture, precision agriculture, markets and climate, and soil nutrient management. Weed control and herbicide-resistant issues are expected to remain key topics for 2026.
The eight-week schedule is organized to help participants follow a clear learning path:
- Jan. 6–8: Weed management
- Jan. 13–15: Soils and water
- Jan. 20–22: Insect pest management
- Jan. 27–29: Plant pathology
- Feb. 3–5: Horticulture
- Feb. 10–12: Precision agriculture
- Feb. 17–19: Markets, economics, and climate
- Feb. 24–26: Soil nutrient management
For more details, producers may visit the SDSU Extension Crop Hour webpage or contact Connie Strunk, SDSU Extension Plant Pathology Field Specialist; or Sara Bauder, SDSU Extension Forage Field Specialist, at 605-995-7378.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Education, Sustainable Agriculture, Weather