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Seecorn maggot larva feeding on a seed in a field.

Seedcorn Maggot Degree Day Activity Estimates: May 24, 2024

Parts of South Dakota are currently at, slightly below, or over the 1,080 degree days for the peak second generation emergence of seedcorn maggots.

Purple-brown caterpillar with orange head on a green corn leaf.

Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 24, 2024

Throughout South Dakota, common stalk borer caterpillars are still active in alternative weed and grass hosts.

Green corn leaf with ragged holes through-out caused by common stalk borer feeding.

Common Stalk Borers and Why They Matter in Early Season Corn

Based on current degree day accumulations, the common stalk borer caterpillars are developing within weeds and grass hosts. Once the caterpillars outgrow these hosts they will begin moving into corn fields.

Left: Alfalfa weevil larvae. Right: Alfalfa weevil adult.

It’s Time To Start Scouting for Alfalfa Weevils

This week, alfalfa weevil larvae have been spotted in the fields. Routine scouting is the best method to ensure that alfalfa isn’t heavily defiolated by this pest.

Top: Field pennycress leaves and seeds. Bottom: Shepherd’s purse leaves and seeds.

Early Season Prevalence of Field Pennycress and Shepherd’s Purse

Many fields that are planted to winter wheat or have yet to be tilled may have a healthy infestation of field pennycress or shepherd’s purse. Learn some expert tips for identifying and managing these weeds before they become a problem this growing season.

Purple-brown caterpillar with orange head on a green corn leaf.

Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 16, 2024

Common stalk borer caterpillars are still active in grass and weeds along field edges. Based on recent degree day data throughout the state, no scouting is necessary for common stalk borer activity in fields yet.

Seecorn maggot larva feeding on a seed in a field.

Seedcorn Maggot Degree Day Activity Estimates: May 16, 2024

Based on accumulated degree days, areas in southern South Dakota are approaching the peak emergence period for the second generation of seed corn maggots.

Green beetle larvae with a white stripe running down its body.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 16, 2024

South Dakota finally warmed up and as a result, alfalfa across the state should be scouted for alfalfa weevil larvae.

Canada thistle growing in a pasture.

Current State of Noxious Weed Management in South Dakota

Results of an online survey to determine how South Dakota stakeholders are currently managing noxious weeds.

a small cottage with a green door and weathered shingles

SDSU Extension, McCrory Gardens start summer 2024 programming with Garden Discovery Festival

May 14, 2024

South Dakota State University Extension and McCrory Gardens will start its summer programming season with the Garden Discovery Festival on May 19, 2024.