Content by Connie Strunk

Little black bugs on a yellow flower

SDSU Extension experts win national agricultural association awards

July 30, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension experts were recognized nationally for their excellence in outreach and Extension programming.

Three wheat fields exhibiting wheat streak mosaic virus symptoms throughout.

South Dakota Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus Disease: 2026 Update

Wheat streak mosaic virus is on the move across South Dakota wheat fields. Due to the mild winter and overwintering in winter wheat, viral activity has had a jump start in 2026, and the occurrence and intensity of disease pressure is comparable to the 2025 season.

Three bean leaf beetles. From Left: Brown beetle with black spots on a green leaf. Yellow beetle with black spots on a green leaf. Red beetle with black spots on a green leaf.

Bean Leaf Beetles, a Vector of Bean Pod Mottle Virus, May Be Active in Soybean

Although we are predicting low overwintering survival of bean leaf beetles this year in South Dakota, scouting for this pest should still be conducted, as every year we still observe populations in soybean.

Color-coded map of South Dakota showing Fusarium head blight risk throughout the state. For a detailed description, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

Tools Available for Fusarium Head Blight Prediction

Fusarium Head Blight (FHB), commonly known as scab, is a major disease threat for wheat each year during the flowering growth stage. To support growers in making informed fungicide decisions, forecasting tools are available that use weather data to estimate the likelihood of scab development.

Cleaned, emptied pesticide containers on a concrete workshop floor.

South Dakota Pesticide Container Recycling

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources is again offering pesticide container recycling services across the state. View a complete list of 2026 dates and locations.

Wheat plants in a field showing viral symptomology of Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus.

Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus Confirmed in 2026

At the end of April, a winter wheat sample was submitted to the Plant Diagnostic Clinic displaying typical viral symptoms of chlorosis and streaking. Upon testing, this sample was determined to be positive for Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus.

grass leaves with yellow and brown streaking on the tops and edges

Grass Diseases of South Dakota Identification Guide

Common grass disease identification guide.

A yellowish-orange beetle with black squares along the back resting on a green plant.

Bean Leaf Beetles in South Dakota

This fact sheet provides an overview of the biology of the Bean Leaf Beetle and management options for South Dakota.

two people holding hands

SDSU Extension offers virtual suicide prevention training for farm families

November 05, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension is offering virtual suicide prevention training for farm families called Questions, Persuade, Refer (QPR).

Dried corn growing in a field with visible damage and molding.

Mycotoxins: Should you be concerned?

Environmental stress caused by the weather or damaged crops increases the potential for mold and mycotoxin development. Learn some answers to common questions about mycotoxins and how to manage them.