Content by Philip Rozeboom

A small black bug with tan margins on its wings resting on a grass seed head.

Time to Start Scouting for Black Grass Bugs

In central and western South Dakota, black grass bugs are a common spring forage pest that can cause considerable damage during periods of drought. Learn how to monitor and manage this pest to protect your forages this spring.

Green beetle larvae with a white stripe running down its body.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 4, 2023

With warmer temperatures during the last week, there was an increase in the accumulation of degree days for alfalfa weevils. See our latest observations from around the state.

A yellow beetle with a black head, and square black markings on its back standing on a soybean leaf.

South Dakota Overwintering Bean Leaf Beetle Predicted Mortality: 2022-2023

With bean leaf beetle emergence rapidly approaching, it’s important to start thinking about early-season management of the overwintering population. View our latest recommendations based on observations from winter 2022-2023.

Veterinarian and horse owner inspecting a horse.

Winter Ticks Showing Up on Horses

Ticks aren’t only active during the growing season in South Dakota. Winter ticks can be commonly found on horses and cattle. Learn some expert tips for identifying and managing them before they become a problem.

Dark brown tick with a white shield behind the head.

An identification guide for Arthropods of Human Health Concern in South Dakota

Pictorial guide for arthropods of human health concern in South Dakota

Red-brown colored weevil with bent antennae originating on the elongated mouthparts.

Planting Date May Be Our Most Powerful Tool for Red Sunflower Seed Weevil Management

In the last few years, red sunflower seed weevils have been the most economically damaging insect pest in South Dakota. To identify alternative management options, researchers at SDSU and the USDA-ARS lab in Fargo, ND conducted a study evaluating early planting dates as a potential strategy to reduce red sunflower seed weevil infestations.

A creamy white larva next to a hole where it had previously been feeding.

Biology and Management of Squash Vine Borer in the Garden

Squash vine borer larvae are serious pests of pumpkins, zucchini and other winter squashes. Learn how to identify and manage infestations before they impact plant health and productivity this fall.

Several brownish gray moths with light markings present on their wings.

Army Cutworms Returning to South Dakota

A black light trap at the SDSU West River Research Farm near Sturgis has started capturing army cutworm moths. This indicates that the moths that migrated west this spring are returning to the South Dakota plains to lay eggs.

Cluster of wasps on a honeycombed surface.

Wait, These Wasps Were Here the Whole Time?

Wasps receive attention no matter the time of year, but they are especially noticeable in late summer and early fall. Learn some expert tips for identifying and managing different types of wasps in your home and garden.

Chigger mite under maginifying device.

What To Do About Chiggers

Chiggers are a persistent summer arthropod pest that many people want to get rid of in their lawns. While it is understandable that people want to eliminate them, the best defense against chiggers is being prepared before going outside.