South Dakota State University Sharpens Its Research Focus

Jan 21, 2026

By Addison DeHaven

For 144 years, South Dakota State University has engaged in pivotal research and extended knowledge throughout the state of South Dakota. From N.E. Hansen's discoveries of drought-resistant plants that would survive the harsh conditions of South Dakota to Edgar McFadden's near-miraculous wheat breeding that would save 25 million people from starvation to Paul Middaugh's conversion of surplus crops to ethanol, SDSU research has continuously made an impact both near and far.

To address the complex challenges facing South Dakota and the rest of the United States, the university has sharpened its research focus and has identified three strategic research themes where its strengths and expertise as a research university can make a measurable difference now and in the future. The three themes are: bioproducts innovation, rural health and well-being and agricultural technology innovation.

Bioproducts Innovation

Agriculture is at the heart of South Dakota's economy. With millions of corn and soybean bushels produced each year, the state's farmers must find a variety of markets to sell their raw materials.

SDSU is investing strategic resources into bioprocessing and bioproduct innovation research to expand market opportunities for South Dakota's producers.

Researchers from SDSU's College of Natural Sciences, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering and the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences are leveraging their strengths and expertise to create a high-performing research innovation group aimed at developing value-added bioproducts.

Source : sdstate.edu

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.