Agriculture in San Luis Valley

Whether you farm on small acreage or work with livestock or large-scale production agriculture, Extension is your source for science-based, actionable solutions.

Discover research publications, services, and Extension offerings across agriculture topics from crop production and food systems to water management, livestock care, and more.

View of the Colorado Rocky Mountains

We offer a variety of educational workshops, events, and individual education opportunities throughout the year in the areas of agriculture and range management.  We also offer training in emergency preparedness and rodent or wildlife management.

Annual Southern Rocky Mountain Agriculture Conference

Every February, the San Luis Valley Extension office sponsors the three-day Southern Rocky Mountain Agriculture Conference and Agricultural Trade Fair. The conference provides information for sustainable and profitable production and management strategies for potato growers and small grain and forage growers of the San Luis Valley. 

We also provide updates on the current situation with regard to the projected Rio Grande River water availability and the water sub-districts in the San Luis Valley for the upcoming year. The event provides the latest local and regional research, information critically needed by growers to not only improve their operations, but to become more successful.

Pesticide Training

In the winter and spring months, we collaborate with the local Conservation Districts and DP Ag Products to provide training on the seven core credit areas of pesticide management. These trainings can provide the Continuing Education Credits (CECs) needed for private and commercial applicators.

A tractor tows a trailer on a ranch

Farm & Ranch Management

Like many regions in Colorado, the San Luis Valley presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to operating a farm or ranch. Unpredictable weather, drought, wildfire, and changing markets can all impact agricultural businesses.

Livestock & Animals

Explore topics and publications on animal health and safety, grazing and pasture management, disease prevention, food and nutrition, equine care, and more.

Cattle Grazing in a Field
A group of people talk with horses in the background

Range & Pasture Management

CSU Extension connects land managers, farmers, and ranchers to trusted resources and information for managing rangelands, pasture land, public lands, and large acreage across Colorado and the Western U.S.

Small Acreage Management

Whether you’re considering purchasing rural property or farmland, or you currently manage small acreage, Extension offers educational resources designed to address common questions and promote effective strategies for land and resource management.

Ranch Landscape with Barn
A large tractor drives through an agricultural field

Agriculture Business Management

Running a successful agricultural business in Colorado offers challenges. Producers face many hurdles, from prolonged drought conditions to complex financial challenges. The Agriculture and Business Management team at CSU Extension works both on campus and in communities across Colorado to provide producers with the the tools to be better prepared, more strategic, and more successful.

Featured Agriculture Resources