A small group of South Dakota family farmers and ranchers are in Washington, D.C. this week asking Congressional leaders to end the Trade War, pass a Farm Bill and adhere to the Constitution. The advocacy effort is organized by South Dakota Farmers Union in collaboration with National Farmers Union.

For the week ending April 27, 2025, there were 5.1 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 25% very short, 40% short, 34% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 34% very short, 44% short, 22% adequate, and 0% surplus.

Over the weekend I texted a rancher friend regarding this topic as he inspected his pastures. I noted, in summary “The height of grass is good to know in the month of May and reflecting on how the healthy soil organisms are using the precipitation and temperature in order to release the free soil mineral Nitrogen, typically held up on unhealthy grasslands.” This knowledge can make a difference, at minimum, 40% more feed in August & September.

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The South Dakota Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources (DANR) and Game, Fish & Parks (GFP), has completed its annual fish collection and sampling program. This joint effort aims to assess the safety of fish consumption in various water bodies across the state.