Establishing cover crops in South Dakota semi-arid, frigid soils can be challenging. Viable options for timing include following wheat, in-season following the annual crops weed-free period, and in the fall following harvest. Benefits from cover crops may include: 1) reduced wind and water erosion, 2) reduced nitrate leaching, 3) increased soil organic matter and water infiltration, 4) improved nutrient recycling, 5) improved water quality, 6) improved soil health, 7) enhanced weed suppression, 8) remediation of saline and sodic soil problems, and 9) increased forage for livestock and wildlife.
Please scroll down to read extension publications from South Dakota.
Various agencies provide cover crop services at a local level. These resources can help with technical support and answer questions from a local perspective at no cost.
South Dakota State University Extension
Find your SDSU Regional Extension Center
South Dakota Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Find your local NRCS Field Service Center
South Dakota Soil Health Coalition
South Dakota's Conservation Districts
Find your SD County Conservation District
Feel free to contact your MCCC state representative for local questions and recommendations. Your MCCC state representative's contact information can be found on the State Contacts tab.
MCCC State Contacts
David Karki
SDSU Extension Agronomy Field Specialist
Watertown Regional Extension Center
1910 West Kemp Ave
Watertown, SD 57201
Phone: 605-882-5140
Email: David.Karki@sdstate.edu
Other Contacts
Anthony Bly
SDSU Extension Soils Field Specialist
SDSU Extension Regional Center
4101 W. 38th St. Suite 103
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Phone: 605-782-3290
Email: anthony.bly@sdstate.edu
David Clay, Professor
South Dakota State University
Plant Science
Box 2207
Brookings, SD 57007
Phone: 605-688-5081
Email: david.clay@sdstate.edu
Cheryl Reese, Lecturer (Soil and Agronomy) and CCA
South Dakota State University
Plant Science
SAG 210, Box 2207A
Brookings, SD 57007
Phone: 605-688-6309
Email: cheryl.reese@sdstate.edu