Forage
All Forage Content
Monitor Crops for Grasshopper Activity
Abundant precipitation throughout much of South Dakota has resulted in less grasshopper observations. However, in areas where grasshoppers were an issue in 2023, they are starting to show up again.
Blister Beetles Are Ramping Up
Within the past week, blister beetles have become a common appearance in South Dakota alfalfa. While we managed to avoid early infestations this year, fields should now be monitored prior to harvest for the remainder of the growing season.
Range Roundup: Dormant Season Wildfire Project in Northwestern South Dakota
Two of the main environmental conditions that drive post-wildfire rangeland recovery include health of the rangeland ecosystem prior to the wildfire and climatic variables, such as precipitation or drought after the fire event.
Range Roundup: Precision Agriculture Range Project With Producer Participation
SDSU Extension researchers started a new precision agriculture range project using remote sensing, machine learning, and ground-collected vegetation samples to develop an application to measure forage quality and quantity throughout the state in near real-time.
Range Roundup: South Dakota Women on the Range
With the percentage of women in agriculture expected to grow over the next few years, SDSU Extension will be launching a new program called South Dakota Women on the Range. The program will educate women about the importance of range management, while also empowering them to become leaders in the agriculture industry.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.