By Scout Nelson
The Dean’s Pheasant Hunt is a long-running South Dakota tradition that celebrates the strong bond between agriculture and conservation. Hosted by the South Dakota State University College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, the annual event brings alumni, friends, and supporters together to highlight the value of natural resources, habitat care, and the state’s agricultural heritage.
Over two and a half days, participants enjoy activities that promote value-added agriculture, agritourism, and local businesses. The event also includes multiple pheasant hunts, which showcase how agriculture and wildlife habitat can exist together when land is managed with care.
College leaders explain that the hunt reflects the college’s mission to support both farming and conservation. They say the event gives the university a chance to “practice what they preach” by showing how healthy land and successful agriculture go hand in hand.
The tradition began 15 years ago when two friends wanted to use their annual hunting trip to support SDSU athletics. Over time, the gathering expanded and became the Dean’s Pheasant Hunt, drawing alumni and supporters from across the country. This year’s event was sponsored by Coca-Cola and First Dakota National Bank.
The activities started with a welcome reception at McCrory Gardens, where guests heard from a graduate student and bat specialist who explained how native bats help the economy by controlling insects and supporting pollination.
One alumnus traveled all the way from Hawaii to attend the celebration, showing the deep loyalty and connection within the SDSU community.
Much of the hunt takes place at Black Fork Distillery near Brandt, a strong example of value-added agriculture. Part of the event is also held on the Ruhd family farm, where tens of thousands of trees planted nearly 40 years ago now provide strong wildlife habitat.
Event leaders say the hunt is a perfect way to showcase what SDSU stands for—community, conservation, and agriculture working together. Anyone interested in next year’s event can contact Mark Sandager and the SDSU Foundation.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Business, Education