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2017-2018 Multi-State Organic Oat Variety Trial Results
The tight production margins currently present in agriculture have increased interest in growing organic oats.
Common Stalk Borer Activity Update: May 16, 2019
The hatching and movement of common stalk borer caterpillars can be estimated by using degree days with a developmental threshold of 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Common stalk borer eggs typically begin to hatch at 575 degree days.
How to Identify Common Stalk Borers and Thresholds
As corn is being planted, it is important to remember that there are insect pests capable of injuring young, vegetative corn. One such pest is the common stalk borer. Although common stalk borer outbreaks are sporadic, when present in high numbers they can cause significant yield loss.
Diagnosing Early Diseases in Winter Wheat
Winter wheat progress is relatively behind the five-year average given the long winter season and low spring temperatures. However, it is important to scout and diagnose early-season diseases in winter wheat to determine the need for an early season fungicide.
2019 Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction
One of the major insect pests of alfalfa in South Dakota is the alfalfa weevil. In 2018, we received fewer reports of alfalfa weevils, which may have been a result of the cooler and wetter spring conditions. It’s possible that populations may also be lower in 2019 due to the similar spring conditions that we are currently experiencing.
Wearing a Respirator? Then No Facial Hair for You!
At commercial or private applicator re-certification trainings, it is possible to hear the phrase, “Don’t wear a respirator if you have facial hair!” Facial hair, whether a full beard or stubble, may prevent respirators from sealing to the skin or interfere with their valve function.
Switching Corn Hybrid Maturities
The decision to change maturities is ultimately up to each individual producer and is based on unique situations such as risk tolerance and harvest capabilities, such as drying capacity.
Multi-Peril Crop Insurance: Delayed and Prevent Plant Choices
Crop insurance late plant dates are fast approaching for planting crops in South Dakota. The weather and soil conditions this spring will likely lead to some prevent plant situations for farm producers.
Large Farms More Dominant in South Dakota Crop Production
Large farms play a more dominant role in South Dakota crop production, according to the recently released 2017 U.S. Census of Agriculture. As of 2017, large farms of more than 2,000 acres operate 66.8% of South Dakota total cropland aces compared to 47.7% as of 1997.
Delayed Planting Challenges: Alternative Forages
With the excessively wet planting conditions much of South Dakota is now experiencing, many producers are looking for “Plan B” to meet forage needs for their livestock, or as a commodity that can be marketed to livestock producers.