Warren Rusche

Warren Rusche is an Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Feedlot Specialist at South Dakota State University's Department of Animal Science in Brookings, SD. His research focuses on beef cattle management, feedlot nutrition, and livestock production efficiency. He advises on feed formulation strategies, carcass quality metrics, and sustainable animal production systems.

Key research areas include optimizing feed ingredient substitutions (e.g., rye/corn, DDGS/soybean meal), evaluating phytogenic and probiotic additives, and analyzing regional/seasonal feeding system impacts on cattle performance. His work addresses environmental sustainability through carbon footprint reduction and water use efficiency improvements in cow/calf systems.

• Specializes in feedlot management practices
• Focuses on growth performance, carcass traits, and rumen health
• Explores alternative feed sources and dietary formulations

Recent studies highlight trade-offs between nutritional strategies and health outcomes (e.g., liver abscess severity in high-protein diets), emphasizing the need for balanced feed regimes. His extension role bridges academic research with practical applications for South Dakota producers.

Key facilities: Animal Science Complex at SDSU (Office: Room 217). Active in livestock industry outreach programs and collaborative research initiatives.