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Green leafhopper with clear wings.

Aster Leafhoppers Detected in South Dakota Wheat

Aster leafhoppers are present in wheat again this spring. For the last few years, aster leafhoppers have been a common occurrence in South Dakota wheat.

Gray beetle resting on the purple blossom of an alfalfa plant.

Blister Beetles Already Appearing in Alfalfa

Large blister beetles populations were observed while scouting alfalfa this past week. While they usually aren’t an issue until after the first cutting, this early activity means growers should monitor alfalfa fields prior to harvest for the remainder of the season.

Six people smile wearing medals and holding first-place award plaques

SD teams win at national range, homesite judging contest

June 05, 2026

Two South Dakota teams won first place in the 4-H Range and Homesite categories at the 2026 National Land, Range and Homesite judging contest.

Pots of small native plants

SDSU Extension promotes native plants with events across state

June 05, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to announce a series of Native Plant Expos across the state this spring.

Greenish brown bugs on a white sweep net cloth.

Alfalfa Plant Bugs Showing Up in Abundance

There have been several insect pests showing up in alfalfa this season, including the alfalfa plant bug. We consider the above-average spring temperatures and drought-stressed plants in Eastern South Dakota to be the primary drivers of these issues.

Group of 4-H youth with clipboards at a livestock judging event.
Jun 15

South Dakota 4-H Clover Classic

The South Dakota 4-H Clover Classic will be held June 15-16 at various locations on the campus of South Dakota State University.

A group of people smiles underneath a huge Jackalope statue

2026 Energize conference touts benefits of youth staying in SD

June 05, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension hosted a successful 2026 Energize conference in Wall with 144 attendees.

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

Alfalfa Weevils Are Active in South Dakota

Alfalfa weevil larvae are active across South Dakota. Although they had a somewhat slower start this year, we are now observing all instars of the larvae in alfalfa fields.