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Precautions for Grazing Weevil-Infested Alfalfa

Alfalfa weevil populations are high this year, creating challenges for producers. Questions have arisen on how to get some value out of the forage by grazing it rather than putting it up for hay.

Monitor Alfalfa for Pea Aphid Activity

Pea aphids can cause yield reductions to alfalfa when large populations are present. Prolonged feeding by these populations can even cause the alfalfa fields to take on a “golden” color.

Soybean Defoliators Are Active

It’s that time of the season when numerous defoliating insects can be observed in a single soybean field. Most of the defoliators at this time are green cloverworms and alfalfa caterpillars.

Pumpkin Carving Preservation

Pumpkin carvers can use several techniques to slow or prevent the spread of pathogens and help their jack-o’-lanterns last longer. Learn some expert tips for getting the most out of your pumpkin carvings this fall.

Monitor Newly Emerged Corn for Black Cutworm Activity

There are several important insect pests that can severely injure corn during the early vegetative stages. One of these pests is the black cutworm. 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.

Soybean Aphids Active in South Dakota

Soybean aphid populations have been observed in South Dakota. Although populations are still very small and not widely dispersed, it is a good reminder that soybean aphid scouting should occur throughout the growing season.

Soybean Aphids Are Active in South Dakota

Small populations of soybean aphids were recently identified while scouting soybean in the Volga and South Shore areas. This is a good reminder that scouting should be ongoing to ensure that populations do not exceed thresholds.

Corn Rootworm Adults Are Active in South Dakota

We have been observing a lot of corn rootworm adults in South Dakota. The emergence of these primarily underground pests can provide insight into field population levels and the potential for future root injury.

SDSU Extension releases updated crop budgets tool

February 28, 2025

Producers and financial advisors can use the spreadsheets as a template to input their own costs and get an estimate on profits. The spreadsheet includes tabs for fertilizer and pesticide and commodity estimates for different regions of the state, including high- and low-production areas.

Tips to Prepare Your Planter: A Precision Ag Perspective

Planting time is nearly upon us, and setting your planter up properly can help save time, reduce unexpected costs, and increase your profitability and safety. Learn some expert tips for getting started!