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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?
Understanding Drought: Information and Current Status
Producers can proactively manage drought impacts by staying up-to-date on current drought status through the United States Drought Monitor website. Weekly updates for South Dakota are posted each Thursday and allow producers to make proactive management decisions.
How Do I Keep Insects From Destroying My Garden Produce?
It is not unusual to see insects in a garden during the fall, but it can be frustrating to watch nearly ripe produce be destroyed by insects before it can be picked.
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.
Sioux Falls to Host Emerald Ash Borer Tree Injection Workshop
April 21, 2021
As the season for emerald ash borer treatments nears in South Dakota, state forestry experts want applicators in the Sioux Falls area to be prepared.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: April 22, 2021
It was another cool week without a lot of degree day accumulations. With warmer temperatures in the upcoming forecast, the need to scout for alfalfa weevil activity will increase.
Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: April 22, 2021
In its early vegetative growth stages, corn is susceptible to feeding by the common stalk borer. The hatching and movement of common stalk borer caterpillars can be estimated by using degree days.
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.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: April 29, 2021
With another warmer week in the forecast, the need to scout for alfalfa weevils continues. Based on current degree day accumulations, overwintering alfalfa weevil adult activity is likely throughout all of South Dakota.
Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: April 29, 2021
As temperatures continue to warm up, degree days are beginning to accumulate a little faster for common stalk borers. Most of South Dakota is still between conditions approaching egg hatch and egg hatch occurring.