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Green and brown grasshopper with two yellow lines that originate on the head and meet on the abdomen.

Will Grasshoppers Be an Issue for Winter Wheat Emergence in 2021?

Grasshoppers were an issue in some areas of South Dakota during 2020 and continue to be an issue for several parts of the state in 2021. Drought conditions throughout the state aren’t helping, as grasshopper populations are limited on available food.

Salt-impacted field recovering, with active plant life growing throughout.

The Power of Living Roots

Learn how living roots improve soil structure and can be used as a tool to fix marginal lands with salty soil conditions.

Century Star watermelon on display.

Melons: How to Grow It

Melons can take quite a bit of garden space throughout the summer, but they reward gardeners with sweet, juicy flavor! Learn how to select, plant and grow them today!

Two, dark green aphids on a bright green leaf.

Low-Level Aphid Populations Present in Wheat

We are starting to receive reports of aphid populations in wheat fields throughout much of South Dakota. At this point in the season, weekly scouting is the best bet to monitor the populations.

Wheat field that is turning yellow due to mite infestation.

Brown Wheat Mites Active in South Dakota Wheat

There have been reports of brown wheat mites active in wheat in central and western South Dakota. To date, reports have been for minor infestations, but severe infestations are possible.

Almonds, a tablespoon of oil, and almond butter sitting on a countertop

How to Make a Safe Nut Butter

During the last few years the popularity of plant-based butters has increased considerably. These plant-based nut butters have proven to be good sources of protein, fiber, essential fatty acids and other nutrients and may include soy butter, almond butter, pistachio butter, cashew butter, sesame butter, and so on.

A creamy white larva next to a hole where it had previously been feeding.

Biology and Management of Squash Vine Borer in the Garden

Squash vine borer larvae are serious pests of pumpkins, zucchini and other winter squashes. Learn how to identify and manage infestations before they impact plant health and productivity this fall.

A group of mixed cattle feeding in a feedlot.

Neospora-Positive Status: Impact on heifers/cows and their calves

Neospora caninum is a protozoal germ that has the potential to affect reproduction in beef and dairy herds. Neospora-related reproductive problems can arise from two different kinds of infected cattle: 1) cows or heifers that became infected by eating contaminated feed, and 2) cows or heifers that were born with Neospora and pass it on to their offspring in utero.

Tan grasshopper with light colored stripes on its back sitting on the soil surface.

Grasshoppers May Cause Problems for Winter Wheat During Fall 2023

As winter winter begins emerging, it is important to monitor field edges for grasshopper activity and feeding injury. This is especially true in areas where large populations have been observed throughout the summer.

Mother and two daughters doing an online family fitness routine near a small Christmas tree.

The Twelve Days of Fitness

It is common for health and fitness to take a backseat during the holiday season, but this fun, family-friendly workout can get everyone moving together to have a happy and healthy season ahead!