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Black and Yellow Garden Spiders
As gardeners harvest the last of their produce, many are noticing the black and yellow garden spider (Argiope aurantia) living among the vegetation. This spider may also be observed in crops, or tall grass or weeds that provide protection for their webs. These spiders (at least the females) stand out because of their bright colors, large size, and distinctive large web. While they are often overlooked, the garden spider is common throughout the United States.
Sign Up Available for Virtual Feedlot Short Course, July 16
August 10, 2020
SDSU Extension will be hosting a seven-week virtual Feedlot Short Course beginning on July 16. The program is scheduled to run each Thursday from July 16 through August 27, at 12:30 p.m. CDT.
Watch for Pea Aphid Populations in Alfalfa
Recent reports have indicated that pea aphid populations are very large in some alfalfa fields and should continue to be monitored and possibly managed.
False Chinch Bugs Back Again
False chinch bugs are active yet again in South Dakota. Although they are normally only a nuisance pest, their populations can become magnified during cool, wet springs.
A fly? A hornet? Nope, it’s a sawfly!
This spring, there have been multiple reports of people seeing large fly-like insects in their yards. These insects are sawflies, and all reports thus far have been the elm sawfly (Cimbex americana).
Western Bean Cutworm Moths Observed in South Dakota
Over the weekend, South Dakota experienced strong southerly winds, which brought warm temperatures to the state. In addition, these winds also brought insect pests north, which included moths of the western bean cutworm.
Barley Yellow Dwarf Developing in Oats
A few oat fields that were recently scouted were found to have barley yellow dwarf virus infected plants. The infected plants were few and scattered throughout the oat fields.
Stripe Rust Found in Winter Wheat at Low Severity
Stripe rust was observed in the crop performance trials at the Dakota Lakes Research Farm in Hughes County and at Ideal in Tripp County. At both locations, stripe rust was at a low severity.
Alternatives to Postemergence Dicamba Applications
Cancellations of three dicamba labels on June 6, 2020 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, left many farmers looking for options for effective weed control this summer.
Being Vigilant of Livestock Property Security and Surveillance
Livestock producers have many daily responsibilities when it comes to caring for and protecting their animals. One responsibility is to remain vigilant regarding individuals that oppose the use of animals for food or other purposes.