Search

Brown Wheat Mite Affecting South Dakota Wheat
Recently, there have been reports of brown wheat mites throughout central and western South Dakota. The brown wheat mite is generally more of an issue in the drier parts of the state, or in areas experiencing drought. The feeding injury caused by these mites leaves white or brown spots that are referred to as stippling.

Factors Affecting Wheat Production Decisions: Producer survey findings
Recent USDA data shows that during the past 3 years acres devoted to wheat production continue declining in both South Dakota and North Dakota (USDA, 2018). South Dakota wheat acres experienced a remarkable decrease of 31.5% during the past 3 years, compared with a relatively mild drop of 16.4% by North Dakota.

Trade Impacts on Soybeans
Agricultural trade agreements were first established in the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), legal treaty signed initially by 23 nations in 1947. The purpose was to promote international trade by reducing barriers such as tariffs.

Sunflower Hybrid Variety Trial Results
In 2024, sunflower trials were planted at two locations in South Dakota.

Water Use by Plant Stage
Over the growing season, solar radiation, air temperature and plant size are the dominant factors in determining evaporative demand and the rate of water use by wheat. Water use can vary dramatically on a day-to day basis, depending on climate and wheat health.

Baptisia
The plant for this week is Baptisia a.k.a. “false indigo”, “white indigo” and “yellow indigo”. This is a hardy perennial for the Northern Great Plains that is easy to grow, has multiple seasons of interest and lives for many years. They are actually native to the US but usually are found in somewhat warmer climates.

Character Links 5 curriculum
4-H Character All Stars will implement the Character Links 5 curriculum for the 2018-19 school year. Within the curriculum five character traits are highlighted: Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, Kindness and Citizenship.

Monitoring Nutrient Status of Beef Cows
Managing cows through the winter provides different challenges compared to managing those same cows during the growing season. With snow cover, cows should oftentimes receive supplemental feed to meet nutrient requirements during late gestation and into calving season due to low forage or limited quantity.

Managing Cattle Through Winter Weather Conditions
Winter weather conditions often present challenges to cattle managers in the Northern Plains. Although we can’t alter the weather, there are management steps that can be taken to help maintain cattle health and performance.

Kentucky Coffeetree
Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus) is a medium-sized tree that will fit into many landscapes and provide interest all year with its bark, leaves, flowers, fruit and even great fall color, if weather conditions are right.