SDSU expands precision agriculture with new endowed livestock systems role
South Dakota State University has built a strong reputation in precision agriculture through its four-year degree program and the Raven Precision Agriculture Center. The university has also expanded its global reach by working with international partners, helping students learn advanced farming technologies.
Despite this progress, a gap was identified in livestock-related precision agriculture education. A faculty member in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering noticed that while students were well trained in crop systems, they needed more knowledge in applying technology to livestock management.
This concern led to a major contribution from Dick and Jeune Nicolai. Dick Nicolai, who grew up on a farm, had a long career in agricultural engineering and research. His work focused on improving livestock systems, including tools to manage air quality and reduce environmental impact. During his time at the university, he saw the need to integrate modern tools such as sensors, automation, and data systems into livestock farming.
“While assisting with various courses in animal science and agriculture systems, I noticed that students could benefit significantly from this opportunity to grow in precision livestock, especially in waste management,” said Nicolai. “But there are many more aspects of precision livestock that have developed recently and need to be covered in other courses, such as ventilation, pasture systems and virtual fencing. Technology is so much better than it was 20 years ago.”
To help address this issue, Nicolai decided to donate farmland to support the university. In March 2026, about 132 acres of land were sold for $2 million. The funds are being used to establish the Richard and Jeune Nicolai Endowed Professor in Precision Livestock Systems. This position will support teaching, research, and program development in this growing field.
The new role will also contribute to collaboration between departments, especially in animal science and agricultural systems. It is part of a broader effort to expand endowed faculty positions at the university, which help attract skilled experts and support long-term academic growth.
University leaders have said that such contributions are important for improving education and research. The new professor will be recognized at a future university event, and recruitment for the position is currently underway.
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