Forage
All Forage Content
Keep Scouting for Alfalfa Weevils
This week we received a report and picture confirmation of early-instar alfalfa weevil larvae in an alfalfa field. Although most alfalfa fields were treated for alfalfa weevils before the first cutting, those fields still need to be scouted.
Start Scouting for Potato Leafhoppers in Alfalfa
Potato leafhoppers are a migratory pest that commonly impact alfalfa fields throughout South Dakota. They cannot tolerate our cold winter temperatures, so they travel up from the southern United States each spring.
Blister Beetles Showing up in Alfalfa Fields
Blister beetles are now active in South Dakota. Although the larvae of blister beetles can be beneficial by feeding on grasshopper eggs, the adults cause issues when large populations are present in alfalfa at the time of harvest.
Reed Canary Grass: Possible Prussic Acid & Alkaloid Issues
Prussic acid issues with reed canary grass are poorly understood and may go unrecognized if they occur. This article addresses a little-known but interesting aspect of the biology of reed canary grass.
Thistle Caterpillars Observed on Canada Thistle
Although thistle caterpillars are normally first observed in July or August, it is possible for them to appear earlier if weather conditions are favorable. While these caterpillars are generally not present in high numbers, they can cause severe defoliation.
Cedar Trees and Rangeland Loss
The issue of cedar tree invasion into South Dakota’s rangelands tends to be a regional conversation. There is generally broad agreement among most resource professionals that these trees are in fact changing our landscape in a negative way.
Swath/Bale Grazing
Swath grazing and bale grazing are harvest systems that mesh haying and grazing techniques. Generally, the objective is to reduce labor and equipment expenses by allowing livestock to consume the hay crop in the field.
Fertilizing Grasslands
Grassland fertilization, like many other grassland management topics, is highly dependent on certain parameters, such as soil type, vegetation type and harvest methods.
Managing and Protecting Grasslands for the Future
Grasslands are a valuable resource for South Dakota, and many of our core industries rely on the perpetuation of healthy grasslands for agriculture, recreation and tourism. Regardless of goals and objectives, many grassland landowners desire assistance with short and long-term grassland management goals.
Estimating Livestock Consumption
When planning a grazing strategy, it is important to carefully assess goals and objectives and then match those goals and objectives with the appropriate livestock. It is critical that the manager understand that not all livestock are created equal.