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Black and grey bugs of different sizes feeding on a yellow squash.

Squash Bugs in Zucchini

Squash bugs are now becoming a headache for gardeners across South Dakota. Most of the reports so far have been on zucchini plants, but squash bugs feed on pumpkins and other types of squash as well. Injury caused by extensive feeding appears as wilting and may result in the death of infested plants.

A group of older adults performing exercises in a school gymnasium.

Strength Training for Older Adults

Strength training can be intimidating for older adults, but it plays a crucial role in keeping muscles and bones strong as we age. Learn some expert tips for starting a strength training routine today!

abandoned barn surrounded by flood waters. Photo by Jeannie Mooney, FEMA

Flood

View resources to prepare for and recover from flood situations.

A pasture containing a mixture of grasses and alfalfa.

Scouting for Grasshoppers in Pasture and Alfalfa

For 2019, we have either received reports of very high grasshopper numbers or of very low or nearly absent populations. Most reports of high populations have originated from areas near rivers and other waterways. This suggests that the rich foliage along the banks of waterways has provided excellent habitat for grasshoppers and has boosted their populations in those areas.

Green and yellow grasshopper with black chevron markings on hindlegs.

Should I Be Concerned About Grasshoppers When Planting Winter Wheat?

During 2019 we have received varying reports regarding grasshopper populations. Many reports have indicated that grasshopper numbers are down. However, we have also received reports of very large grasshopper populations in some areas of South Dakota. So why such a difference?

A stunted planting of corn with purple coloring on its leaves.

Fallow Syndrome: What is it and how do I deal with it?

Fallow syndrome received its name from the dry plains states, where fields routinely benefited from the additional moisture available after a year where the ground was fallowed. Corn sometimes had symptoms of phosphorus deficiency when grown on this previously fallowed ground, thus it received its current name, “fallow syndrome.”

An aerial view of a soybean field with noticable rows of yellowing plants due to SCN infection.

Early Yellowing in a Soybean Field May Indicate Presence of the Soybean Cyst Nematode

Some portions of soybean fields may show clusters of plants yellowing while the rest of the field is still green. One of the factors that could lead to soybean plants showing early yellowing in clusters is soybean cyst nematode (SCN).

4-H members sitting in a meeting

South Dakota 4-H Club Officer Guide

Leadership is the ability to influence the thinking and actions of people. Good leadership helps others in the group to become the best they can be and it inspires everyone to want to “make the best better.” It requires willingness to tackle a new job and persistence to see it through.

Oat plants exhibiting crown rust symptoms.

Does Crown Rust in Oats Cause Problems for Livestock?

When wet, cool conditions predominate in the spring, crop producers may have to deal with crown rust in oats. When this crop disease is abundant, questions from livestock producers arise. Could crown rust in oats harm livestock if it’s present on pasture or in hay?

Canada thistle growing in a pasture.

Fall Noxious Weed Control

Fall weed control can give the best weed control, but it also can be a poor time. If the noxious weeds were sprayed or clipped earlier this summer, and there is good weed growth now, this would be an excellent time to spray these weeds and get a good kill.