Insect & Pests
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Mosquitos to Watch for in South Dakota
After many areas in South Dakota experienced heavy rainfalls, mosquitos are now a major issue. Learn which species are most common throughout the state and which carry the highest risk for West Nile Virus.
Army Cutworm Migration Swarms Detected in Western South Dakota
Mass populations of army cutworm moths are being reported to entomologists at South Dakota State University. Thus far, these migratory swarms have only been observed in far western South Dakota, particularly within the Black Hills.
Private Applicator Endorsements for M-44 Devices, Fumigants, and Aerial Applications
Recent changes to South Dakota private applicator pesticide regulations have impacted the requirements to use M-44 predator-control devices, fumigants, and to apply pesticides from aerial vehicles.
Monitor Soybean for Soybean Tentiform Leafminer
In 2022, researchers detected soybean tentiform leafminer in McCook, Minnehaha, and Moody counties in South Dakota. The extent of the distribution of this pest in South Dakota is unknown and is currently being investigated.
Western Bean Cutworms Detected in South Dakota Corn
Western bean cutworm caterpillars have been reported in South Dakota corn. This pest can cause yield loss by feeding on the tassels, silks, and ears. In addition, ear feeding activities increase the likelihood of secondary diseases and mold growth on the ear.
Aphids Infesting Corn in South Dakota
Aphid populations are taking off in some southeastern South Dakota corn fields. The two aphid species that are commonly observed in corn include the corn leaf aphid and the bird cherry oat aphid.
Is it Time to Spray Red Sunflower Seed Weevils?
Red sunflower seed weevil adult activity is well underway on sunflowers in South Dakota. Even though the red sunflower seed weevil numbers are down, we are still observing populations in South Dakota that are above threshold.
Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus Complex: Breaking the Green Bridge
As wheat harvest proceeds, it won’t be long until winter wheat planting is underway in South Dakota. To effectively reduce wheat streak mosaic virus, it is important to manage the green bridge effect to slow spread of disease in newly emerging wheat fields.
Volunteer Wheat and Kochia Management With Herbicides Will Likely Require Two Passes
Wheat curl mites, which carry wheat streak mosaic virus, use volunteer wheat and grass weeds as secondary hosts to infest recently planted winter wheat crops. Therefore, effective management of these plants before winter wheat planting is critical.
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.