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White net covered in green larvae.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: June 19, 2024

Across South Dakota, degree day estimates indicate that alfalfa weevil activity should be completed. However, our field observations this week suggest otherwise.

Green alfalfa weevil larvae with a white stripe running down its body.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 29, 2024

Most alfalfa weevil larvae that were observed this week were between the first and second instar, but it is likely that later instars are present in southern counties.

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

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 24, 2024

Degree day accumulations continue to estimate alfalfa weevil activity throughout South Dakota. Alfalfa weevil activity is likely greater in southern counties, but alfalfa should continue to be scouted statewide.

Left: Alfalfa weevil larvae. Right: Alfalfa weevil adult.

It’s Time To Start Scouting for Alfalfa Weevils

This week, alfalfa weevil larvae have been spotted in the fields. Routine scouting is the best method to ensure that alfalfa isn’t heavily defiolated by this pest.

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

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 16, 2024

South Dakota finally warmed up and as a result, alfalfa across the state should be scouted for alfalfa weevil larvae.

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

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 9, 2024

Although May hasn’t been extremely warm, the accumulated degree days in South Dakota since January 1, 2024, suggest that alfalfa weevil larvae could be active in several areas of the state.

Tan grasshopper with light colored stripes on its back sitting on the soil surface.

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.

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

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.

Oat leaves covered in orange pustules.

Crown Rust of Oats

Crown rust continues to be the most economically damaging and important fungal diseases of oats in South Dakota. Learn how to recognize and manage it in oat fields this growing season.

green plant growing in a field with small grains growing on the ends

Proso Millet Trial Results

In 2020, proso millet trials were conducted in 1 location in South Dakota.