Insect & Pests
All Insect & Pests Content
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.
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.
True Armyworm Caterpillars Are Active in South Dakota Wheat
We have received a few reports of true armyworm caterpillars in wheat that are heavily feeding on the leaves. The big concern with these pests is that they will also clip wheat heads prior to harvest, so scouting is necessary to ensure that they don't cause yield losses.
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.
Soybean Aphids Detected in South Dakota
While scouting soybean aphids this week we observed small colonies of 5 to 10 soybean aphid nymphs. This indicates that the soybean aphids are just starting to arrive in South Dakota soybeans and weekly scouting for them should be occurring.
Green Caterpillars Causing Defoliation in Soybean
This week we observed several species of caterpillars in soybean fields. The most common species were the green cloverworm and the cabbage looper.
2025 Pesticide Container Recycling
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources is again offering pesticide container recycling services across the state. View a complete list of 2025 dates and locations.
Dectes Stem Borer Adults Are Active in Soybean: 2025 Management Recommendations
Dectes stem borer adults have been collected from soybean in Southeastern South Dakota. The larvae of this pest are capable of reducing soybean yields by 10-15% due to tunneling activity in the main stem. Learn some tips for scouting and managing them this season.