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Green aphid with red eyes and cornicles with black tips.

Large Pea Aphids Detected in South Dakota Alfalfa

Pea aphids are a common pest of alfalfa in South Dakota, and large populations have been detected again in 2026. When large populations are present, their feeding can cause the alfalfa fields to take on a “golden” color.

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.

Cleaned, emptied pesticide containers on a concrete workshop floor.

South Dakota Pesticide Container Recycling

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources is again offering pesticide container recycling services across the state. View a complete list of 2026 dates and locations.

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

Alfalfa Weevils Are Active in South Dakota

This week, alfalfa weevil larvae have been spotted in the fields. Routine scouting is the best method to ensure that alfalfa isn’t heavily defiolated by this pest.

A group of raised ground beds with crops growing in them at McCrory Gardens in Brookings, South Dakota.

Garden Hour

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