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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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Steam Canning
Steam canning is a quick and simple method of preserving produce using steam. While steam canning was previously not an evidence-based practice, recent research indicates steam canning may be a safe home food preservation method for canning naturally acidified foods.
Canning Jams and Jellies
Sweet fruit products like jelly, jam, preserves, conserves and marmalades are jellied or thickened and preserved by sugar. The differences between the fruit products are categorized by the way they are prepared, proportions of fruit, pectin, acid and sugar in the mixture and the method of cooking.
Check Alfalfa for Blister Beetle Activity
Blister beetles are becoming more common as we progress through the growing season. Recently, there have been multiple reports of blister beetles showing up in alfalfa fields.
Start Scouting Fields for Thistle Caterpillar Activity
Many of our summer insect pests overwinter in the Southern U.S. and rely on wind currents to travel north in the spring and summer. The thistle caterpillar is one of those pests.
Snails Observed in South Dakota Sunflower
Last week we received reports of snail populations causing issues in South Dakota sunflower fields. Snails are normally not an issue in South Dakota crops but like their slug relatives, they can pose a threat to crops when field conditions are just right.