Content by Connie Strunk

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.

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.

SDSU Extension to host corn disease scouting workshop

September 23, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension will host a scouting session for corn diseases confirmed in the state this season.

A green corn leaf with yellow to brown spots throughout.

Corn Disease Update: September 2, 2025

As of September 2, 2025, a number of corn diseases have been reported and confirmed throughout South Dakota. View our latest findings as we approach the fall harvest season.

Aster Yellows Phytoplasma

Aster yellows is a phytoplasmal disease carried and introduced by aster leafhopper. It is known to infect over 80 different plant families, as the aster leafhopper has extremely broad feeding habits.