By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is offering a special soil health workshop on June 20, 2025. This one-day event is open to women and couples involved in agriculture and will take place at Sweetheart Ranch near Iona.
The workshop is a joint effort between SDSU Extension, the Svoboda family of Sweetheart Ranch, and Sarah Svoboda, also known as The Resilient Ranch Coach. It focuses on how soil health connects with cattle grazing and ranch production.
Attendees will learn about different soil types, how water is held in soil, and how to take and understand a soil test. There will also be lessons on record keeping, plant productivity, and how healthy soil supports healthy livestock and strong families.
The workshop includes hands-on fieldwork and indoor classroom sessions. Participants will receive a brix refractometer (one per operation), which helps measure plant health. Lunch is also included.
The cost to attend is $40 per person. Registration is required and can be completed by visiting the SDSU Extension Events page and searching for “soil health.”
This workshop is part of SDSU Extension’s new summer program called the Roots and Ranching Road Show. The series highlights learning opportunities from young ranchers across South Dakota.
Organizers say this workshop is a great way for people to connect, share experiences, and build new ranching skills.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Education, Livestock