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Content by Adam Varenhorst

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offices in Washington, D.C.

Organophosphate Insecticides Under Continual Review by the Environmental Protection Agency

Recent moves by the EPA to limit or prevent the use of organophosphate insecticides present challenges for growers seeking effective pest control. So, what is motivating these changes, and what do they mean for producers?

Producer loading pesticide into a sprayer tank.

Chlorpyrifos Products Can be Used in 2024 for Insect Pest Management

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys recently announced that currently registered insecticide products with the active ingredient chlorpyrifos will be legal to use on labeled crops during the 2024 growing season.

Young farmer analyzing data on a tablet computer beside a crop sprayer.

Pesticide Mixing and Sprayer Calibration Equations

Pesticides need to be applied at proper rates to ensure effective control of the pest. Learn some common equations used to mix pesticides and calibrate sprayers.

Row of well-maintained grain bins alongside a field.

A Few Considerations for Fall and Winter Grain Storage

Proper grain storage during fall and winter is essential to ensuring a successful harvest. Learn some expert tips for managing stored grain pests and maintaining an ideal bin environment for post-harvest grain storage.

Three stored grain pests. From left: Maize weevil, Angoumois grain moth, Cadelle beetle.

Common Stored Grain Insect Pests

There are several species of insects that feed on stored grain, resulting in reduced grain quality. Learn how to identify some of the most-common grain pests that can be found in South Dakota.

Agronomist and farmer inspecting an ear of corn in the field.

The Handy Bt Trait Table: A tool to help select the right corn traits for your fields

Determining what Bt traits are in each corn trait package can be a challenging task. Fortunately, the process has been streamlined by the Handy Bt Trait Table, created by Chris DiFonzo at Michigan State University.

sun rising over South Dakota field

South Dakota Pest Management Guides

The South Dakota Pest Management guides are now available for free. The guides offer recommendations for controlling weeds, insects, and diseases in a variety of South Dakota crops.

Waterhemp growing at the edge of a soybean field nearing harvest.

Row Crop and Noxious Weed Surveys

Controlling noxious weeds and weeds in row crops is a challenge every year. SDSU Extension has created two online surveys to capture the current climate of weed control in South Dakota.

Image showing a brown stalk with a hollowed out pith area and a white beetle larva present.

Prompt Harvest Can Reduce Lodging Caused by Dectes Stem Borer in Sunflower

If you notice an increased amount of lodging in your sunflower field, it is recommended to harvest the field as soon as possible to reduce losses from Dectes stem bore infestations.

Four green caterpillars feeding on a leaf of green kale.

What’s chewing on my kale?

Cabbage white caterpillars can be a nuisance in kale and other cold crops, leaving behind ragged-looking leaves and a significant amount of droppings. Learn some expert tips for identifying and manage them before they take a bite out of your harvest.