Content by Patrick Wagner
Straw Itch Mites
Factsheet on the lifecycle, identification, human impact, veterinary significance and management of straw itch mites.
Banded Sunflower Moth
Factsheet on the identification, lifecycle, scouting and economic impact of the Banded Sunflower Moth.
Wheat Stem Sawfly Parasitoid: Bracon lissogaster
Factsheet on indentification and lifecycle of Wheat Stem Sawfly Parasitoid.
Vertento® Insecticide Approved for Red Sunflower Seed Weevil Management
Recently the Environmental Protection Agency approved a Section 18 Emergency Exemption label for Vertento® Insecticide for use on sunflowers for red sunflower seed weevil management in South Dakota. This exemption is effective from July 15 to August 31, 2026.
Fly Management for Cattle
There are several species of flies that can reduce the production value of livestock, particularly during hot, dry weather. To manage these pests, it’s important to be able to accurately identify them and understand their life cycles.
Large Grasshopper Nymph Populations Detected in Southeast South Dakota
This week we received several reports of large grasshopper populations originating from southeast South Dakota. The populations were well above threshold and actively defoliating crops.
Keep an Eye on Your Wheat: True Armyworm caterpillars may be present
Every year, true armyworm caterpillars pose a threat to South Dakota wheat fields, and they most frequently show up during the end of June and early July. However, strong southerly winds during the spring can cause populations to show up earlier.
European Corn Borer Caterpillars Are Active: Scout your conventional corn
European corn borer caterpillars have been observed in conventional corn at several locations. Indicators for presence of are a line of straight holes in the upper leaves that is often referred to as shot-hole injury.
Fungus Gnats Affecting Soybean Emergence
We have recently received a report of a maggot attacking soybean seedlings. During most years, we would immediately expect this to be a case of seedcorn maggots, but it was fungus gnat larvae.
Springtails Are Active in South Dakota
Recent reports of seemingly millions of very small insects moving around on driveways and around homes was the result of a springtail population boom. Springtails typically become a nuisance during drought conditions or saturating rains.