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Bonnie Johnson
February 13, 2026
Media ArticleSouth Dakota State University Extension welcomes Kim Ricardo as its new Forage Field Specialist. She is based in Pierre and works closely with producers across the state to improve pasture and hay land management. Her role focuses on helping farmers build productive and sustainable livestock operations through research-based guidance.
Ricardo shares her motivation for this work, saying, “Getting to know producers, understanding their operations and working alongside them to support their success is what motivates me most in this role,” Ricardo said. She enjoys working directly with farmers and applying research findings in real farm settings.
A native of Missouri, Ricardo grew up on a fifth-generation commercial cow and calf operation, which sparked her interest in supporting agricultural communities. In addition to working on her family’s operation, she applied advanced reproductive technologies to cattle operations at Select Sires and Trans Ova Genetics. She also supported stocker calf research and rotational grazing management practices at the University of Missouri Southwest Research, Extension and Education Center.
“These experiences have prepared me to translate research into practical, field-ready strategies and to build strong relationships with South Dakota producers,” Ricardo said.
Ricardo earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in animal science from the University of Missouri. Her graduate studies focus on beef cattle, reproductive physiology, and nutrition. She chooses advanced education to prepare for a career in Extension work.
SDSU Extension leaders' express confidence in her abilities. “Kim comes from a farm background where she grew up in Missouri and received strong academic training in beef production and use of forages from a grazing and feed perspective at the University of Missouri,” said Sandy Smart, professor and SDSU Extension Interim Director. “She provides a great addition to our team at the regional center in Pierre as we continue to grow our commitment to helping producers diversify their operations through crop-livestock integration."
With her experience and dedication, Ricardo strengthens Extension efforts to support South Dakota agriculture.
Photo by: extension.sdstate.edu
