Early-June Forage Production Report and Outlook

Huron, SD, June 5, 2025 - South Dakota (SD) Grassland Productivity Map conditions have changed across the state since last updated on May 15. These maps, produced through the SD Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Drought Tool, will be updated approximately every 15 days until July 1.

The "current status" map compares precipitation we have received to the average precipitation from the last two years. May brought us a much-needed drink of water across the state and conditions have improved greatly.

The "forecasted" map shows what peak forage production will look like if the remaining time between now and July 1 has average rainfall. As we get closer to July 1, we are less likely to catch up to "normal" in certain parts of the state, though, outside of haying, planting, harvesting, or branding seasons, rain is always welcome!

The SD NRCS Drought Tool utilizes weather data from many sources, including Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS) weather reporters. The data is only useful if ALL weather data is recorded- this includes days when there is no precipitation and must submit a zero. This action helps data users to confirm there was no rain or precipitation on those days. For more information on CoCoRAHS or to become an observer, visit their website: https://www.cocorahs.org/.

For more information about Grassland events in your area, visit the SD Grassland Initiative's Calendar of Events, where events for learners of all ages are posted.

The following resources are also available:

• SD NRCS Range and Pasture page: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/conservation-by-state/south-dakota/range-pasture
• South Dakota Grassland Coalition Drought Planning website: sddroughtplan.org/
• National Drought Mitigation Center: drought.unl.edu/ranchplan/Monitor.aspx
• National Integrated Drought Information System: drought.gov/
• U.S. Drought Monitor: droughtmonitor.unl.edu
• South Dakota State University Extension Drought Resources: extension.sdstate.edu/drought
• SD Growing Resilience Web page: https://www.growingresiliencesd.com
• SD Grazing Exchange: https://www.sdgrazingexchange.com/

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