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a tractor driving in a field next to a pond

South Dakota Grassland Management School Workshops Set For July 27, 28

July 15, 2021

The 2021 Grassland Management School workshops will be held at the Eck Restoration Project north of Henry, South Dakota on the shores of Warner Lake.

A large wasp on a pink flower.

Cicada Killer Wasps Are Active in South Dakota

The cicada killer wasps are active in South Dakota, which means cicadas are probably not far behind. As their name implies, cicada killer wasps use cicadas as a food source. They can present an impressive spectacle if you observe one carrying a paralyzed cicada from a tree.

Light colored fly with dark pattern on wings sitting on a green leaf.

Sunflower Receptacle Maggot Flies Spotted in Sunflower

Quite a few sunflower receptacle maggot flies have been spotted in South Dakota sunflower fields. The adults don’t feed on sunflower, but the larvae of this insect are considered minor pests of South Dakota sunflower.

a man posing for a headshot in a dark suit and tie

SDSU Welcomes Ali Nafchi to Precision Agriculture Team

July 09, 2021

The South Dakota State University Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science, along with SDSU Extension, has named Dr. Ali M. Nafchi to serve as an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Precision Agriculture.

Caterpillar with a red stripe on its back sitting on a green leaf. Bottom: Mottled gray caterpillar sitting on a green leaf.

Cutworms in Sunflowers

In South Dakota, some late-planted sunflower fields are having some cutworm pressure. Although most cutworm activity should be wrapped up by now, it is possible that some populations may have been feeding up until the beginning of July.

Corn plant with yellowing leaf edges due to potassium deficiency.

Corn Potassium and Drought

For many crop producers, potassium deficiency has become an increased concern, and this year’s drought conditions have resulted in potassium deficiency symptoms showing up in fields where it would normally not occur.

Green soybean leaf with small holes near the center and edges.

Redheaded Flea Beetles Active in Soybean

Redheaded flea beetles are active in soybean. Although they haven’t caused significant defoliation yet, their activity should be monitored.

Green caterpillar with a dark brown head.

Obliquebanded Leafrollers Active in South Dakota Soybean

If you’ve observed rolled soybean leaves that are held together by webbing, don’t immediately think thistle caterpillar. The obliquebanded leafroller caterpillar will roll soybean leaves and hold the leaf in place with silken webbing.

Small, green teardrop shaped insects on a green, soybean stem with pink flower.

Soybean Aphids Spotted in South Dakota

Soybean aphid populations have been observed in South Dakota. Although these populations are still very small, it is a good reminder that soybean aphid scouting should occur throughout the growing season to prevent population outbreaks and yield loss.

Three photos: Man mowing lawn, crab grass growing on lawn, sprinkler watering lawn.

Summer Lawn Care: Mowing, Weed Control and Watering Practices

During a summer of drought, the extreme heat, lack of rainfall and invasion of pests can really take a toll on our turf. Learn some general concepts of summer lawn care and techniques to help your lawn through difficult summer months.