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Dark-colored aphids on a green stem.

Cowpea Aphids Infesting Alfalfa

Typically, we worry about pea aphids in alfalfa. However, we noticed that cowpea aphids were present on alfalfa this week. If left unmanaged, cowpea aphids can stunt alfalfa, reduce yields and even kill the plants during severe infestations.

Tractor pulling manure a spreader through a harvested crop field.

Using Feedlot Manure to Reduce Crop Production Costs

Livestock waste can be a valuable source of crop nutrients when correctly managed. Taking a strategic approach to feedlot manure application can increase the value of manure as part of your overall system.

Small black beetles covering a partially defoliated leaf.

Flea Beetles Causing Issues in Canola

Large flea beetle populations in canola have been observed in neighboring states and within South Dakota. The hot, dry and sunny conditions that we have been experiencing throughout 2021 have been ideal for flea beetle populations.

Watershed Academy attendees discussing riparian area management in the countryside on a bridge over a waterway.

The Importance of Riparian Areas

Riparian areas occur along streams, rivers, wetlands, lakes, and shorelines and can be considered the last line of defense before pollutants enter a body of water. Learn about the many benefits these areas offer and the programs available to support their conservation.

It’s Time To Start Scouting for True Armyworm Caterpillars in Wheat

This week, we collected quite a few true armyworm moths from our traps around eastern South Dakota. That means that true armyworm caterpillars will probably be showing up soon. To play it safe, scouting should start this week to stay ahead of potential issues.

field of zinnia flowers

Growth and Quality of Four Zinnia Cultivars Grown in Eastern South Dakota

The purpose of this study was to assess the production and quality of four zinnia cultivars grown in eastern South Dakota to support local specialty cut flower growers in their operations.

A small brown insect on a green blade of wheat

Scouting Winter Wheat for Mite Pests

Winter wheat planting is underway in South Dakota. After wheat emergence, it is important to scout for brown wheat mite and wheat curl mite populations.

vegetables growing in three plastic tubs

Growing Vegetables in Tubs

You can grow lots of vegetables in plastic container gardens. The important things to remember are using a good growing medium and keeping enough water on the plants as they get larger.

Dark colored caterpillar feeding on wheat head.

Scout for True Armyworms in Oats and Wheat

During most years, we start worrying about true armyworm activity in wheat fields in mid-July. However, the strong southerly winds that we experienced during the last two weeks pushed several insect pests north ahead of their normal schedule

A farmer observing an unplanted field at sunset.

2020 Planting Decisions

Planting decisions for this spring are complicated given the recent spread of COVID-19. A very busy planting season is approaching quickly. Input suppliers and farmers will be met with a requirement to complete tasks timely to evade economic losses from delays.