South Dakota State University Extension will host a new event for youth age 12-21 to learn about the beef industry.
The Youth Beef Summit is from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 16, 2025, on the SDSU campus in Brookings. It is free to attend, but registration is required by July 7. To register, visit the SDSU Extension Events page and search “summit”.
All youth interested in the beef industry are encouraged to attend. The day will include education about beef production, including meat quality, nutrition, reproduction and provide hands-on learning opportunities in animal handling.
Prior experience with beef cattle is not required. In fact, Warren Rusche, assistant professor and SDSU Extension Feedlot Management Specialist, said this is a prime opportunity for youth without prior experience to get an overview of the industry and to learn how beef gets from pastures onto plates.