Search

A glass of water being filled from a kitchen sink tap.

COVID-19 and Home Water Use

There have been questions regarding spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 through drinking water.

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.

Small black fly on pale skin.

Monitor Livestock, Pets and Yourself for Eye Gnat Activity

While being outside this week, I noticed a lot of small gnats flying around my legs and really bothering my dogs. I caught a few and identified them as eye gnats. Although this pest is considered a nuisance in most cases, it is capable of transmitting diseases and pathogens.

A map of South Dakota with several colored boxes indicating areas of increased flood risk. For a complete description, visit the National Weather Service website at: https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/long_range.php?wfo=fsd

Get to Know Your Local Emergency Management Director

The warmer weather and spring migration this March have us all thinking of better days ahead. Unfortunately, it also has us thinking about flooding again this spring.

Three children washing their hands together in a bathroom sink.

How to Talk to Your Kids About COVID-19

Parents, it is important to talk to your children about what COVID-19 is and why it is a pandemic so they understand the cancellations and changes in their daily routines. Here are some tips from the CDC to help you talk to your children and how much information to expose them to.

Assorted medical equipment for at-home diabetes testing and care.

Diabetes and COVID-19

If you are at higher risk of contracting COVID-19, it is important to take actions to reduce your chance of getting sick. Those at higher risk, including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease, are encouraged to get ready now!

variety of fresh vegetables in basket

Ask Our Food and Family Experts

If you have a question related to food or families, our team of experts is ready to help.

Tim Schreiner at his food preservation booth at the Vermillion Area Farmers Market.

Schreiner Turns Backyard Hobby Into Community Support

Whether volunteering as a Master Gardener or a Master Food Preserver, Tim Schreiner says the interaction with people and seeing that “light bulb” moment after a conversation is really the fun part of the programs.

A woman preparing a jar of pickled cucumbers in a kitchen.

Modifying Canning Recipes

Understanding how swapping ingredients, adding ingredients, increasing or decreasing ingredients and making changes to processing plays a vital role in ensuring that home-canned products are safe.

Cooked slices of bacon on a slate with fresh herbs.

Don't Go Bacon My Heart

How much do most consumers really know about bacon? Let’s explore some bacon basics to help you understand this delicious product.