Forage

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Green beetle larvae with a white stripe running down its body.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 18, 2022

At this point in the season, all alfalfa fields should be scouted weekly to ensure that large populations of alfalfa weevils do not cause excessive defoliation.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 12, 2022

The forecast for the next week will continue to be favorable for the development of alfalfa weevils. See our latest recommendations for staying ahead of them.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 5, 2022

One of the insects we monitor for using degree day accumulation is the alfalfa weevil. With warmer temperatures in the upcoming forecast, the need to scout for alfalfa weevil activity will increase.

Pink beetle with black spots feeding on oblong, yellow eggs.

Pink Lady Beetles: Beneficial Predators in Urban and Agricultural Landscapes

There are numerous insect species that are beneficial to the gardens and farms. In this article, we will highlight a common insect predator known as the pink lady beetle, or spotted lady beetle.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: April 28, 2022

Although spring temperatures have fluctuated, we have been accumulating degree days, which means some of insect pests will emerge soon. With warmer temperatures in the upcoming forecast, the need to scout for alfalfa weevil activity will increase.

A small black bug with tan margins on its wings resting on a grass seed head.

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.

Damsel Bugs: Beneficial Predators in Managed and Agricultural Landscapes

It is important to remember that not all insects are pests. Damsel bugs are beneficial predators that feed on soft-bodied insects, including many agricultural and garden pests.

Map of South Dakota with green (zero to three grasshoppers), orange (four to seven grasshoppers), and red (8 or more grasshoppers) dots indicating grasshopper populations that were sampled in 2021. The north central region, west of the Missouri River, has the highest concentration of red and orange dots.

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.

A pasture containing a mixture of grasses and alfalfa.

An identification guide for Alfalfa Insect Pests in South Dakota

Pictorial guide for common insect pests of alfalfa in South Dakota

Seven people stand at a distance in a green field. The sky is blue with a large cloud stretching across most of the horizon

The South Dakota State University West River Research Farm to host Field Day on July 11

July 07, 2023

The South Dakota State University West River Research Farm Tour will be held on July 11 near Sturgis, South Dakota, running from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.