Soil And Range Contests for Youth

By Scout Nelson

The 2025 Rangeland and Soil Days event for youth is set for June 10-11 in Belle Fourche, South Dakota, at the Belle Fourche Community Hall. This is the 41st Rangeland Days and the 20th Soil Days, co-hosted by South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension, local conservation districts, NRCS, and the South Dakota Society for Range Management.

Youth aged 8 to 18 are invited to participate. The event focuses on teaching about two of South Dakota’s vital resources — grasslands and soil. Pre-registration is $40 per person and due by May 30. Meals are included, and registration details are available on the SDSU Extension Events page.

“Rangeland and Soil Days is something we look forward to all year long. It really is the highlight of the summer for youth to get involved and learn more about South Dakota’s natural resources,” said Kaylee Wheeler, SDSU Extension Range Field Specialist.

The first day includes outdoor learning and contest practice, followed by student displays and speeches. The second day features official contests, with awards presented after lunch.

Soil Days is open to ages 14-18 and covers soil texture, health, land use, and building suitability. The top scorer earns the Soil Top Hand award.

Rangeland Days includes display, talk, and judging categories. Age groups include New Rangers, Wranglers, Scouts, and Go Getters. Students learn plant ID, ecological sites, and suitability for livestock and wildlife.

Top participants may qualify to represent South Dakota at national contests in Oklahoma and at the National Society for Range Management Meeting.

This program helps youth understand the importance of conservation and stewardship through real-world experience in soil and range science.

Photo Credits:gettyimages-sasiistock