Insect & Pests
Managing Forests for Pollinators
Fact sheet on the importance of managing Black Hills forests for pollinators.
Sunflower Moths Active in South Dakota Sunflowers
We have received reports of sunflower moths present on early planted sunflowers this week. The observed sunflower moth populations are above the recommend threshold of an average of 1 to 2 moths per five heads.
Update on Chlorpyrifos Use in South Dakota
As of June 30, 2025, the labeled uses for chlorpyrifos products for food and feed are limited to alfalfa, soybean, and wheat in South Dakota. Chlorpyrifos can no longer be used to treat sunflowers.
Dectes Stem Borer in South Dakota Soybeans
Fact sheet on Dectes stem borer in South Dakota soybeans
Aphid Populations Continue To Increase in Wheat
English grain aphid populations are continuing to increase in wheat. With increasing pressure, it is important to scout wheat fields to ensure that the populations do not cause yield loss.
Pesticide Personal Protective Equipment: Glove Selection
Safety gloves are one of the most-important pieces of pesticide personal protective equipment. Glove material is very important, as not all materials provide the same protection for different pesticide ingredients.
No Documented Sightings of Asian Needle Ants in South Dakota
Despite reports from major news networks citing that Asian needle ants are in South Dakota, we have no evidence that the ant is established or has ever been documented in the state.
Survey of Grasshoppers in South Dakota
Fact sheet on the abundance and species diversity of grasshoppers in South Dakota
Monitor Alfalfa for Pea Aphid Activity
Pea aphids can cause yield reductions to alfalfa when large populations are present. Prolonged feeding by these populations can even cause the alfalfa fields to take on a “golden” color.
Malathion receives special local needs approval to treat red sunflower seed weevils in South Dakota from July 15 to August 31, 2025
The request was submitted and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency due to the large populations of red sunflower seed weevil present in South Dakota that are resistant to pyrethroid insecticides.