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How’s Life in the Soil? Ask (Count) the Earthworms.
Earthworms are ‘very special’ creatures on earth, and their contribution in soil nutrient cycling and fertility management has been acknowledged from the beginning of agriculture. So, the question needs to be asked, how can we help improve earthworm populations?
Nutrient Loss Calculator
Trying to figure out the nutrient loss in your tile drainage system? The Nutrient Loss Calculator can help. This useful tool helps landowners collect a snapshot of nutrient loss in their drainage systems.
Counties Designated as Disaster Areas and Qualify for Other Programs
Five South Dakota counties have been given disaster declarations due to dry summer conditions. This declaration gives producers in these counties and those in contiguous counties access to USDA-FSA emergency loans.
How Early Is Too Early to Plant Row Crops?
Although it can be tempting to get a head start with row crops, it is important to be mindful of soil temperatures and the associated risks with planting early.
Organic Herbicides: Garden and Flower Bed Weed Control
Many South Dakota homeowners do not want to use inorganic or synthetic herbicides due to potential health impacts. Organic herbicides can be a useful tool for weed control when combined with other management practices.
Drought Conditions Magnifying Impact of Black Grass Bugs
With much of South Dakota continuing to experience moderate-to-extreme drought conditions, black grass bugs could become a concern in some areas. Large populations of black grass bugs can cause severe damage to pasture.
Crop Tolerance to Soil Herbicide Residual
Some herbicides can persist in soil, especially dry soil. Herbicide carryover could be an issue in 2021 across the state depending upon last year’s moisture levels and field conditions.
Weed Control in No-Till Gardens
Mulch is the key to successful weed control in no-till gardening. It is best to start a no-till garden in the fall to give applied mulch the time to breakdown and suppress any weed growth.
April 2021 Climate Update
As we look at March in the rear-view mirror, we look ahead to April and the potential for rain to return to South Dakota to reduce drought concerns across the state.