By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University Extension invites wheat producers, agronomists, and agricultural professionals to attend free Spring Wheat Variety Tours scheduled for June 29, 2026. The events provide an opportunity for participants to view wheat variety trials and learn about crop performance under local growing conditions.
The tours take place at two SDSU Crop Performance Testing locations across South Dakota. The first tour begins at 10 a.m. MT near Agar, while the second starts at 2 p.m. MT near Wall. These testing sites evaluate spring wheat varieties in field environments that reflect regional growing conditions and production challenges.
The program allows participants to walk through research plots and compare different spring wheat varieties side by side. Attendees can observe important agronomic traits such as disease resistance, drought tolerance, maturity, and yield potential. These characteristics play a major role in selecting varieties that fit local farming operations.
SDSU Extension specialists will share information from current variety trials and discuss factors that may influence future planting decisions. The tours also provide valuable opportunities for producers to ask questions, exchange ideas, and network with other farmers and agricultural professionals.
Weather conditions during the current growing season remain a topic of interest. Hot and dry conditions have challenged many crops across the region. However, recent spring rainfall has provided favorable conditions for spring wheat development in some areas.
“Given the weather conditions we’ve had this year – hot and dry – spring wheat had a better chance of being more successful than the winter wheat because of later spring rains,” Winter said. “Farmers are eager to see what the spring wheat can do.”
Selecting the right wheat variety remains an important management decision for producers seeking to balance productivity and risk. Variety performance can vary depending on weather, soil conditions, and disease pressure.
“Each spring wheat variety has its own strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right one is a critical decision for farm profitability and risk management,” Winter said.
SDSU Extension encourages interested producers and agricultural professionals to attend these free educational events. Those seeking additional details, including exact meeting locations, can contact Clarence Winter, SDSU Extension Agronomy Field Specialist.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Wheat