SDSU Extension Names John Jaeger as New Beef Specialist

New SDSU Specialist Focuses on Beef Industry Challenges

Bonnie Johnson
August 17, 2026
Media Article

South Dakota State University Extension has appointed John Jaeger as a full-time Beef Specialist, bringing extensive research and industry experience to support cattle producers through improved productivity, profitability, and beef management strategies statewide.

South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension has appointed John Jaeger as a full-time Beef Specialist, strengthening its support for cattle producers across the state. Based in Brookings, Jaeger will focus on improving cow-calf productivity, profitability, drought preparedness, replacement heifer development, and the use of ultrasound technology in livestock management.

Jaeger previously served as head of the SDSU Department of Animal Science and will now work more closely with producers through Extension programs. His role will involve translating research into practical management strategies that help South Dakota ranchers enhance productivity and address industry challenges.

Before joining SDSU, Jaeger spent 17 years at Kansas State University's Agricultural Research Center in Hays. There, he managed research pastureland, cow herds, and a 1,000-head feedlot while conducting studies on forage-based beef production, grazing systems, calf management, feedlot performance, and carcass quality.

Earlier in his career, Jaeger held positions as a cow-calf herdsman, assistant scientist, ranch manager, and research assistant at university research facilities in Kansas and Oregon. These experiences provided him with extensive expertise in beef production and applied agricultural research.

A native of Oregon, Jaeger earned bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in animal science from Oregon State University, specializing in reproductive physiology. His academic background and industry experience position him to support producer-focused education and research efforts through SDSU Extension.

Sandy Smart, SDSU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Leader, said Jaeger's knowledge of beef production, nutrition, reproduction, and livestock quality will strengthen Extension's ability to help producers address real-world challenges and maintain a competitive beef industry in South Dakota.

Photo Credit: extension.sdstate.edu