Search
Understanding the Critical Role of Broadleaf Pollinator Plants in Pastures
Understanding the economic role of pollinators is the first step towards understanding their diverse values to grassland and crop systems.
Backyard Biodiversity: Nest boxes for native bees
Many of our native bee species are solitary. In order to ensure that these kinds of bees spend more time in our yards and gardens, it is important to make sure we include places for them to nest.
Factors Affecting Wheat Production Decisions: Producer survey findings
Recent USDA data shows that during the past 3 years acres devoted to wheat production continue declining in both South Dakota and North Dakota (USDA, 2018). South Dakota wheat acres experienced a remarkable decrease of 31.5% during the past 3 years, compared with a relatively mild drop of 16.4% by North Dakota.
Water Use by Plant Stage
Over the growing season, solar radiation, air temperature and plant size are the dominant factors in determining evaporative demand and the rate of water use by wheat. Water use can vary dramatically on a day-to day basis, depending on climate and wheat health.
An identification guide to common Rangeland Insect Pests of South Dakota
The insects listed in this guide can be pests of rangeland in South Dakota. The best approach for preventing these pests from reaching damaging populations involves routine scouting.
June 2019 Climate Outlook for South Dakota
As South Dakota emerges from the wettest 12-month period in 124 years of climate recordkeeping (June 2018-May 2019), June has started warmer and drier than average. The outlook, however, turns towards cooler and wetter than average again for the middle of the month.
Watch Corn for Bronzed Cutworm Activity
Bronzed cutworms are not a common pest of corn in South Dakota. However, they can become an issue when corn is planted into areas that were previously grassland. Like its name implies, bronze cutworms feed on corn above the soil surface, which often results in cutting or clipping.
Buying or Selling Oats for a Cover Crop? Be Sure to Follow the Rules
As a challenging 2019 row crop planting season wraps up in South Dakota, many producers are looking to plant cover crops on unplanted acres. One popular cool-season grass cover crop is oats. Most oats in South Dakota are grown as certified varieties, and it is important to be aware of the legal ramifications behind purchasing oat seed for use as a cover crop.
Bringing Home Your 4-H Goat Project
Sales and transport is a stressful time for any animal. Reducing stress factors due to transitions start before the actual purchase of your new project. Managing proper nutrition and disease management are just a couple factors to help your project get off to a great start.
Protecting Yourself From Ticks
During wet springs, tick populations tend to thrive in South Dakota. These parasitic arthropods require blood to fulfill their nutritional needs and commonly use humans as a host. Some ticks can also carry bacterial diseases that are a threat to human health.