Drought: Crops
All Drought: Crops Content
Fall Tillage: Please Don’t Think About It
Conducting fall tillage results in lost topsoil, soil nutrients, and soil moisture. This ultimately leads to reduced soil productivity and profitability. An easy way to conserve topsoil and water resources is to skip fall tillage.
Soil Only Blows During Droughts?
What causes soil to blow during periods of adequate moisure? High winds can rapidly dry soil close to the surface. If the winds are high enough, even soil at intermediate water contents can blow.
South Dakota Grasshopper Prediction for 2024
In 2024, grasshoppers are likely to cause problems in areas of South Dakota due to large populations that were present in 2023 and the relatively late first hard freeze date observed in much of the state.
Keep an Eye on Black Grass Bugs This Spring
In South Dakota, black grass bugs are a common spring pest of forage grasses. This native insect first appears in late April and May when grasses emerge from dormancy.
Drought and Heat Effects on Corn Production
Nearly every season in South Dakota there are periods of hot, dry weather in at least parts of the state. While we have no control over the weather, producers can prepare for drought stress by using proactive practices.
Silage: Minimizing Losses and Maximizing Value
Optimizing silage value starts by harvesting at the right moisture content.
Valuing Drought-Stressed Corn Silage
Salvaging failed crops as silage for livestock can be a “win-win” for both crop growers and livestock owners. Learn how you can use data to improve the odds of finding a value that is fair to both parties.
Black Grass Bugs May Cause Issues if Drought Persists
In western South Dakota, black grass bugs are a common spring forage pest that can cause considerable damage during periods of drought. Learn how to monitor and manage this pest to protect your forages this spring.
South Dakota Grasshopper Prediction for 2022
Data from the 2021 USDA Adult Grasshopper Survey of South Dakota suggests that grasshopper populations may continue to be problem in parts of central and western South Dakota during the spring of 2022.
Managing Cover Crops in Moisture Deficits
Planting cover crops after small grain harvest can be risky in central South Dakota. The decision to incorporate them into an annual cropping system should consider historical precipitation, soil water holding capacity, and soil moisture at time of planting.