Forage
All Forage Content
SDSU Extension welcomes new crop and livestock field specialist
September 12, 2025
South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to welcome Parker Witt as a new Crop and Livestock Field Specialist.
Prussic Acid Poisoning
As the first frost date approaches, producers often have concerns about the risk of prussic acid poisoning in livestock. Certain forage plants, especially sorghums and related species are associated with an increased risk of death loss because of prussic acid poisoning.
Grasshopper Populations Continue to Cause Issues in South Dakota
Recent reports of crop loss along field edges indicate that grasshopper populations in some areas of South Dakota are well above threshold. Unfortunately, crops are often the target of these moving populations.
Reports of Pyrethroid Failures for True Armyworm Caterpillar Management
True armyworm caterpillars reached thresholds in oats and wheat in many areas of South Dakota recently. Management efforts to reduce populations had varying levels of success, with SDSU Extension receiving numerous reports of pyrethroid insecticide failures.
White Thistle Disease: Biological management at work
White thistle disease can be seen among many Canada thistle plants throughout South Dakota this growing season. Plants infected with the disease exhibit significant reductions in both growth and seed head compared with non-infected plants.
Nitrate QuikTest for Forages
The Nitrate QuikTest for Forages is available at various SDSU Extension locations and veterinary clinics across the state and is designed to be used with standing forages prior to harvesting for hay or grazing.
Watch for Blister Beetles in Later Alfalfa Cuttings
The frequent rain events experienced this summer has helped boost forage production. Although this is great for growers, the possibility of encountering blister beetles at harvest increases later in the summer.
Making Decisions With Hail-Damaged Row Crops
Late-season hail damage can leave growers wondering what to do next. Before deciding what to do with your hail-damaged fields, take some time to consider a variety of management options.
Systems Thinking for Agriculture: A tool for addressing complex ranch problems
A systems approach to management encourages producers to take multiple factors into consideration to solve problems within their agricultural operation.
2025 Field Pennycress Management Considerations
Field pennycress prevalence on pastures has been observed to be in higher abundance this year in Western South Dakota. When consumed in certain quantities it can be toxic to livestock.