In the late 19th and early 20th centuries Niels E. Hansen, South Dakota State University professor of horticulture and U.S. Department of Agriculture plant explorer, made several trips through the Russian Empire, the Middle East and Asia. On his expeditions he searched for forage plants, fruits and vegetables that would be compatible with South Dakota’s climate. Among the many plants he brought to the U.S. from the Russian steppes and Siberia are crested wheatgrass, yellow flowering alfalfa, hardy pears and apples. This photograph is dated 1897. Hansen wrote on the reverse “Camels harrowing at Waliyka. Khirgese riders & camels have a woolen covering on back as it is early in spring.”