SDSU Shares Cedar Control Training

By Scout Nelson

South Dakota State University Extension takes part in a two-part educational seminar that focuses on protecting grasslands from cedar trees and other woody plants. This free program supports landowners, ranchers, and community members who want to protect pasturelands and natural habitats across South Dakota.

The seminar takes place on February 6 and February 13, 2026. Each session runs from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Central Time. People may attend in person at the SDSU campus in Brookings or join online through Zoom. To register, visit the SDSU Extension Events page and search “conservation”.

Grasslands are important because they support livestock grazing, wildlife habitat, soil health, and water protection. However, experts explain that many grasslands are under threat due to woody plant encroachment. Woody plants include trees, shrubs, bushes, and some vines. These plants slowly take over grasslands and reduce open grazing areas.

Eastern redcedar is one of the most harmful woody plants spreading across South Dakota. Other common species include pine, cottonwood, dogwood, Russian olive, Siberian elm, and buckthorn. These plants block sunlight, reduce grass growth, increase wildfire risk, and make grazing more difficult for livestock.

During the first session, an SDSU natural resources specialist explains the reasons behind the spread of woody plants. These reasons include changes in land use, wildlife movement, conservation programs, and reduced use of controlled fire. Prescribed fire is a safe, planned burn that removes unwanted trees and restores healthy grass growth.

The second session focuses on the economic effects of woody plant spread on ranches. An SDSU range management specialist explains how ranchers lose grazing land and income when trees overtake grasslands. The session also explains how local prescribed burn associations help landowners work together to manage fire safely.

SDSU Extension supports these burn associations by providing education, training, planning, funding guidance, and safety support. These programs help landowners protect their land, increase pasture value, and maintain strong rural communities.

This seminar gives farmers and ranchers simple tools to protect grasslands and plan safe conservation practices.

Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university