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Protecting Yourself From Ticks
During wet springs, tick populations tend to thrive in South Dakota. These parasitic arthropods require blood to fulfill their nutritional needs and commonly use humans as a host. Some ticks can also carry bacterial diseases that are a threat to human health.
An identification guide to common Ticks of South Dakota
A guide to identifying common ticks in South Dakota
Soybean Aphids in South Dakota
Factsheet on Soybean Aphids in South Dakota
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.