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Giant Wasps Are Invading My Yard! No, They Still Aren’t Murder Hornets.
Every year we receive multiple reports of giant wasps that seem to invade yards and gardens. These wasps aren’t the same as the so-called "murder hornets," but are actually cicada killer wasps.
Soybean Gall Midge in South Dakota
Fact sheet about soybean gall midge in South Dakota
Thistle Caterpillars Observed on Canada Thistle
Although thistle caterpillars are normally first observed in July or August, it is possible for them to appear earlier if weather conditions are favorable. While these caterpillars are generally not present in high numbers, they can cause severe defoliation.
Drought Considerations for Grazing Range Flocks
Having a drought plan in place to best manage pastures is critical in being prepared for next year’s grazing season. Make decisions that will manage risk and promote both flock and financial longevity.
Qualifying Livestock Forage Program Applications
As drought conditions worsen, livestock producers will find feed assistance from the Livestock Forage Program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency. Learn how to qualify, apply and certify your application for assistance.
Will Mosquitos Be an Issue During This Summer?
Although it may seem like mosquitos won’t be an issue this year due to drought conditions, it is important to remember that they don’t require large bodies of water to reproduce. Mosquitos can utilize standing bodies of water, small puddles or even stagnant water in containers or old tires.
Enjoying the Outdoors Without Tick and Mosquito Bites
Outdoor activities seem extra inviting this time of year, and many people are already enjoying the long days and warmer temperatures. Ticks and mosquitoes share the outdoors with us, but there are things you can do to prevent bites from both.
West Nile Virus Update: Sept. 17, 2021
The South Dakota Department of Health's latest update indicated that West-Nile-virus-positive mosquitoes were detected in Beadle, Brookings, Brown, Codington, Hand, Hughes, Lincoln and Minnehaha counties in South Dakota.
Fall Armyworm Caterpillars Causing Issues in South Dakota
This week we started to receive reports of pastures and alfalfa stands that have been heavily fed on by fall armyworm caterpillars. Typically, these pests are not an issue in South Dakota. However, populations have been very large in many states during 2021, and they have now moved into South Dakota.
Will Grasshoppers Be an Issue in 2021?
With much of South Dakota experiencing dry conditions this year, grasshoppers are one of the insect pests that will need to be monitored. Large grasshopper populations may cause economic loss in cash crops and reduce forage in range and pasture lands.