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Skidloader being used to turn compost pile.

Guidelines for Livestock Carcass Disposal in South Dakota

Everyone who works with or owns animals tries their best to keep all animals alive. In turn, they also know there will always be normal mortality. Thus, we need to keep in mind the regulations surrounding disposal.

Blue green aphids present on a corn tassel.

Aphid Populations Observed in South Dakota Corn Fields

During the last week, we have observed low level aphid populations in corn fields. Although aphid populations can reach high densities in corn, their presence doesn’t indicate guaranteed yield loss.

Dense swarm of mosquitoes in the evening sky

West Nile Virus Update: July 29, 2026

As of July 30, 2026, the South Dakota Department of Health indicated that West Nile Virus positive mosquito pools have been detected in Brown, Codington, Hughes, Lincoln, and Minnehaha counties in South Dakota.

Green leaf with light colored aphids feeding on it.

Soybean Aphid Populations Have Reached Economic Threshold

Based on recently scouting observations, the economic threshold for soybean aphids has been reached. Once thresholds are reached, fields should be reevaluated in 3 to 4 days to confirm the populations didn’t decrease, and if they persist or increase, they should be treated.

Brown weevil adult with dark band down center of its body.

Alfalfa Weevil

Factsheet on Alfala Weevil identification, lifecycle, damage, scouting and management.

Green cloverworm caterpillar, Thistle caterpillar, and Oblique banded leaf roller.

Several Species of Caterpillars Are Actively Defoliating Soybean

There are several species of caterpillars that have recently been observed in a single soybean field. The species include the green cloverworm, cabbage looper, alfalfa, thistle, and oblique banded leaf roller caterpillars.

Aug 14

Dakota Sunflower StoryWalk

SDSU Extension will host a StoryWalk during the Fort Thompson Annual Wacipi, August 14-16, from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. each day at the Fort Thompson Powwow Grounds.

Family jogging together on a rural exercise trail.

Physical Activity

Everyone can benefit from moving their bodies more throughout each day, and all types of activity count towards your daily goal.

Little black bugs on a yellow flower

SDSU Extension experts win national agricultural association awards

July 30, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension experts were recognized nationally for their excellence in outreach and Extension programming.

Older woman and her granddaughter smiling while they pose for a picture.

Dementia

Dementia is an umbrella term to refer to cognitive impairment of various types that interfere with a person’s day-to-day function. Researchers project that half of the adults over the age of 85 will be impacted by some form of dementia.