South Dakota's young conservationists participated in the 2023 Rangeland and Soils Days near Watertown, involving 75 participants aged 8-18. The event, a collaborative effort between South Dakota State University Extension, NRCS, and Codington County Conservation District, aimed to foster a deeper understanding of rangelands and soils.
17-year-old Caleb Weyh, from Webster's FFA team, was a shining star at the event. With a strong background in conservation and range management, he earned the Top Hand Award in the Go-Getter age division. Weyh expressed excitement for applying his skills in future competitions and continuing his work on his family's ranch.
The event also featured notable winners in other categories:
The top Go-Getter range 4-H judging team from Haakon/Bennett County, consisting of Tara Schofield, Colden Kramer, Ashley Shriver, Emily Zickrick, and Sarah Huston, secured their spot to represent South Dakota at the National Land and Range Judging Contest in May 2024 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Similarly, the Lennox 4-H team, comprising Tyler Strasser, Skyler Plucker, Callie Hammerstrom, and Karin Sweeter, emerged victorious in the 4-H soils judging category, earning them the opportunity to compete at the national level.
The event not only showcased the students' competitive spirit but also emphasized the importance of rangelands and soils in agriculture and beyond. By identifying plants, assessing ecological strength, and calculating grazing capacity, the young participants demonstrated their comprehensive knowledge and ability to recommend effective land management practices.
Organized by Krista Ehlert, an SDSU Extension Range Specialist, and supported by the NRCS staff, the event played a vital role in educating the youth about the significance of protecting and conserving natural resources. The dedication of these young advocates for agriculture promises a brighter future for South Dakota's rangelands and soil.
The success of the 2023 Rangeland and Soils Days highlights the exceptional commitment and talent of South Dakota's youth. As these future stewards continue to learn and advocate for sustainable land management, they set a powerful example for others to follow.
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: South Dakota, General