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Damsel Bugs: Beneficial Predators in Managed and Agricultural Landscapes

It is important to remember that not all insects are pests. Damsel bugs are beneficial predators that feed on soft-bodied insects, including many agricultural and garden pests.

Map of South Dakota with green (zero to three grasshoppers), orange (four to seven grasshoppers), and red (8 or more grasshoppers) dots indicating grasshopper populations that were sampled in 2021. The north central region, west of the Missouri River, has the highest concentration of red and orange dots.

South Dakota Grasshopper Prediction for 2022

Data from the 2021 USDA Adult Grasshopper Survey of South Dakota suggests that grasshopper populations may continue to be problem in parts of central and western South Dakota during the spring of 2022.

A small black bug with tan margins on its wings resting on a grass seed head.

Black Grass Bugs May Cause Issues if Drought Persists

In western South Dakota, black grass bugs are a common spring forage pest that can cause considerable damage during periods of drought. Learn how to monitor and manage this pest to protect your forages this spring.

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

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: April 28, 2022

Although spring temperatures have fluctuated, we have been accumulating degree days, which means some of insect pests will emerge soon. With warmer temperatures in the upcoming forecast, the need to scout for alfalfa weevil activity will increase.

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

Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: April 28, 2022

With corn planting underway in some parts of South Dakota, it’s time to start evaluating degree days for common stalk borer caterpillars. As temperatures eventually warm up, this pest can become a problem, especially around the borders of fields.

Seecorn maggot larva feeding on a seed in a field.

Seedcorn Maggot Degree Day Activity Estimates: April 29, 2022

Seedcorn maggots can be an early-season pest of corn and soybean in South Dakota. View our latest seedcorn maggot activity estimates based on degree day accumulation for various locations throughout South Dakota.

Group of farmers and ranchers attending a drought meeting.

SDSU Extension to Host Drought Management Meetings

April 29, 2022

SDSU Extension will host drought management meetings across South Dakota May 10-12.

A sprawling, planted field with young crops emerging

Crop Rotation in Farm Management

Crop rotation has long been considered an important farm practice. In 2013 producers had to stray from their well thought out crop rotations when the winter wheat crop in South Dakota failed.

soybean plants showing difference in pods

Soybean Planting Population: A Review

There have been reports in recent years that agronomists in states such as Iowa, Nebraska and Wisconsin have observed success when reducing soybean planting populations.

Veterinarian using a digital tablet in a sheep barn.

Clostridial Disease Management and Vaccines for Sheep and Goats

Vaccination against clostridium perfringens is universally recommended for small ruminants. Learn some expert vaccine considerations for both sheep and goats.