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Two photos of oat plants exhibiting fusarium root and crown rot. Left: An oat tiller with pinkish color on the crown and first node indicative of Fusarium root and crown rot. Right: Green oat plant with yellow, dry markings throughout indicative of Fusarium root and crown rot.

Fusarium Crown and Root Rot Observed in Oats

Some oat fields are showing plants wilting with tillers dying prematurely and heads looking bleached. Inspecting the crown and sub-crown area reveals the discoloration and rotting and sometimes a pinkish color can be observed. These are typical symptoms of Fusarium root and crown rot.

Mosquito with darker coloration and mosquito with white band on proboscis.

Know Your West Nile Virus Vectors

In some areas of South Dakota, recent precipitation has led to an increase in mosquito activity. To reduce the chances of contracting West Nile Virus, it is important to understand the behavior of the mosquitos capable of vectoring it.

Corn plants with recently emerged tassel and ear in a field.

Flowering in Corn

Corn is at or near the most critical growth condition. Successful flowering and pollination are very important in determining the fate of the kernel setting and development. This article summarizes the pollination process and the effects of dry, hot conditions on pollination.

A patty of dung with several holes in it and grass growing through it. It has been broken down by dung beetles.

Dung Beetles and Other Insects Can Help Breakdown Dung and Control Pests

This article summarizes findings related to dung beetle ecology and how dung beetles advance the breakdown of dung pats.

A male and femail dung beetle rolling a ball of dung in a pasture. Courtesy: Beverly Skinner/USFWS (CC BY 2.0)

Managing Livestock for Dung Beetles and Other Beneficial Species

South Dakota researchers have taken a closer look at the function of dung beetles in Eastern South Dakota over the last few years. This article summarizes findings related to management of livestock grazing and chemical pesticides in relation to dung beetle and insect community health.

several pieces of weather monitoring equipment in a green field

South Dakota Mesonet Weather Station at Eagle Butte Returns to Service

July 15, 2020

The South Dakota Mesonet at South Dakota State University has reactivated its weather station near Eagle Butte with the support of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Telephone Authority.

a headshot of Joshua Hofer

SDSU Extension Welcomes Joshua Hofer to Community Vitality Team

July 14, 2020

Joshua Hofer is the newest member of SDSU Extension’s Community Vitality team of field specialists who assist with business, leadership and community development needs across the state.

Green caterpillar with light colored stripe on back. Caterpillar is feeding on green plant.

Monitor Soybean and Sunflower for Alfalfa Webworm Caterpillars

In the last couple of weeks, we have received numerous reports of small green caterpillars in soybean and sunflower. The caterpillars have been described as producing webbing and moving extremely quickly when disturbed.

Green wheat stems with a gray slug feeding on them.

Slugs Causing Issues in Some South Dakota Wheat Fields

Slug activity in wheat fields has been reported in South Dakota. Although slugs are not normally an issue in South Dakota crops, they can pose a threat when field conditions are just right.

Blueberries inside a plastic storage container.

Have Excess Produce? Freeze It!

Freezing is one of the easiest forms of preserving food. It reduces food waste, saves money and allows you to have quick quality produce on hand at all times. The