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Bed bugs grouped together where the fabric and wood join on a box spring.

Bed Bugs: What You Need To Know

When it comes to household pests, bed bugs can make almost anyone cringe. These tiny, vampire-like critters are pests of humans and can become a persistent problem when they infest homes.

Moth with green metallic wings and an orange body resting on a green leaf.

Squash Vine Borer Moths Are Active

Squash vine borer moths have been observed in South Dakota gardens. Now that we know they are active, it is important to take steps to ensure that they don’t have a negative impact on our squash plants.

Small white moth with a pattern of brown stripes on the wings.

What Are the Little Moths All Over My Lawn?

There have been reports of small, light-colored moths showing up by the thousands in people’s lawns. These moths have been identified as sod webworms, which are now emerging throughout South Dakota.

a map of South Dakota showing the levels of drought for June 2021

Next SDSU Extension Drought Hour Set for June 28

June 17, 2021

Nearly 90% of South Dakota is now in some level of drought. According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, 56% of the state is in the Severe Drought (D2) and Extreme Drought (D3) classifications.

A small green corn plant that has been cut and is laying on the ground.

Cut Corn Plants Detected in South Dakota

Cut corn plants have been detected in South Dakota. The damage is due to black cutworm feeding. Although black cutworm caterpillars injure corn by feeding on leaf tissue, the serious damage occurs when caterpillar feeding results in the cutting of young corn plants.

Three images of a small fly on gray background and also present on a penny. For an in-depth description, call SDSU Extension at 605-688-6729.

Soybean Gall Midge Adults Captured in South Dakota

Although soybean gall midge adults have been captured earlier this spring in neighboring states, the first adults were captured in South Dakota on June 17. So far, our captures are low with one adult at two locations near Burbank and Meckling.

A field of flowering alfalfa.

Nitrate QuikTest for Forages

The Nitrate QuikTest for Forages is available at various SDSU Extension locations and veterinary clinics across the state and is designed to be used with standing forages prior to harvesting for hay or grazing.

Herd of cattle grazing in a pasture rotation.

General Principals of Grazing Management

Grazing involves a number of variables, including land carrying capacity, type and distribution of the livestock, water distribution and number of pastures. A combination of proper grazing techniques and grassland management will improve harvest efficiency and lower production costs.

Small group of cattle grazing a well-managed grassland area.

Grazing Systems

According to rangeland and pasture specialists, there are four basic types of grazing systems, including: continuous grazing, deferred rotational grazing, rest rotational grazing and management-intensive grazing.

Two ranchers examining a fencline along a grassland property.

Designing a Grazing Program

The development of a successful grazing management program begins with a mental inventory and an observation of what is happening that you would like to change. Next, consider what you are willing to do to make that change.