South Dakota Mid-May Forage Update and Outlook

By Scout Nelson

The South Dakota mid-May forage report brings an update to the state’s Grassland Productivity Maps. These maps are produced by the South Dakota NRCS Drought Tool every 15 days using a two-year average of rainfall data. They help estimate current grassland forage production but do not reflect forage quality or cropland output.

Recent rainfall across the region has helped improve soil moisture levels. This is good news for both planted crops and forages, especially as weather forecasts still predict chances of below normal rain in the coming months.

As ranchers begin moving livestock to pasture, it is important to match the number of animals to available forage. Overgrazing should be avoided.

If grazing too low cannot be helped, give those pastures a long rest—around 60 days or more—so plants can recover. Also, try not to graze the same area twice in a single season unless the plants have fully grown back. This helps protect pasture health and prevents unwanted plants from taking over.

Farmers and ranchers have several upcoming learning opportunities to help improve pasture care. The Young Adult Ranching for Profit Workshop is set for June 2–5 in Faith, SD, for ages 18 to 30.

SD Rangeland and Soils Days take place June 10–11 in Belle Fourche for youth aged 8–18. The first of three SD Grassland Coalition Grazing Schools happens June 17–19 in Wall, SD.

For more support, producers are encouraged to reach out to NRCS conservationists, SDSU Extension experts, or mentors through the Growing Connections app or the SD Grassland Coalition network.

Photo Credit: pexels-jeffrey-czum