Insect & Pests
All Insect & Pests Content
Grasshopper Populations Continue to Cause Issues in South Dakota
Recent reports of crop loss along field edges indicate that grasshopper populations in some areas of South Dakota are well above threshold. Unfortunately, crops are often the target of these moving populations.
Soybean Aphids Exceeding Thresholds in Some Parts of South Dakota
There have been a few fields this week that were infested with soybean aphids that are getting closer to threshold. We have also received reports of insecticides being applied to manage soybean aphids in South Dakota.
South Dakota Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certification Testing
New commercial pesticide applicators and those that have allowed their licenses to lapse must pass commercial pesticide applicator exams to receive certification. Learn about some some helpful resources, contacts, and tips to help you be successful in your certification testing.
Insect Festival
SDSU Extension and McCrory Gardens will host the seventh annual Insect Festival on Saturday, September 6, from 1:00-5:00 p.m. at McCrory Gardens (631 22nd Ave, Brookings, SD 57007).
European Corn Borer Caterpillars Infesting Conventional Corn in South Dakota
European corn borer caterpillars have been observed in conventional corn at several South Dakota locations. Indicators for the presence of European corn borer caterpillars in corn are a line of straight holes in the upper leaves that is often referred to as "shot-hole injury."
Redheaded Flea Beetles in Soybean
While scouting soybean this week, we noticed an uptick in redheaded flea beetle activity. In the fields that we scouted, defoliation levels were still very low at less than 5%.
Bean Leaf Beetles Showing Up in Soybean
Despite the prediction of low overwintering survival we have observed bean leaf beetles in soybean this week. See our latest observations and management recommendations.
Adult Corn Rootworms Are Active in South Dakota
Corn rootworm adults are active across South Dakota, and as a reminder it’s a good time to scout corn to determine if your fields have a rootworm issue.
Watch for Blister Beetles in Later Alfalfa Cuttings
The frequent rain events experienced this summer has helped boost forage production. Although this is great for growers, the possibility of encountering blister beetles at harvest increases later in the summer.
Managing Forests for Pollinators
Fact sheet on the importance of managing Black Hills forests for pollinators.