Content by Amanda Bachmann
It’s Time to Scout Alfalfa for Cutworms
One of the earliest insect pests that can be found in South Dakota’s alfalfa fields are army cutworms. Injury from cutworms can sometimes be overlooked until large patches of an alfalfa field have been “cut.”
Monitor Wheat for Early-Season Cutworm Activity
It's finally warming up in South Dakota, and insect activity in wheat fields will be increasing. For wheat, a couple of early-season pests that may already be active are the army cutworm and the pale western cutworm.
Be On the Lookout for Ticks
Ticks are one of the first pests to show up during spring. Learn some common ticks to watch out for in South Dakota, along with tips for preventing bites and removing ticks from your skin and clothing.
Do You Have True White Grubs in Your Pasture or Rangeland?
Grub damage to pastures and rangeland is often observed in South Dakota. From past observations, some of the heaviest infestations in the state are located near the Missouri River.
New Training Options Available for Pesticide Applicators in 2021
January 07, 2021
Join us for more information on the pesticide applicator training in 2021.
What Are Those Little Red Mites on My House?
The periods of unseasonably warm weather, especially in Western South Dakota, have temporarily brought several insects and other arthropods out of their winter hiding places. One of the arthropods getting attention lately has been the clover mite.
How Do I Keep Insects From Destroying My Garden Produce?
It is not unusual to see insects in a garden during the fall, but it can be frustrating to watch nearly ripe produce be destroyed by insects before it can be picked.
Grasshoppers May Be an Issue for Winter Wheat This Fall
We have recently observed large populations of grasshoppers in Southeast and Western South Dakota. Due to their destructive feeding habits, it is very important to monitor their populations prior to and during winter wheat planting.
Huge Wasps on My Tree! No, Those Still Aren’t Murder Hornets.
Another insect that has been mistaken for the Asian giant hornet (also known by its media-popularized name of ‘murder hornet’) is the horntail wasp. Horntail wasps are wood-boring insects that are harmless to humans, as they do not have venom and cannot sting.
Monitor Soybean for Redheaded Flea Beetle Feeding
An additional soybean defoliator to monitor this week is the redheaded flea beetle. Although these beetles are typically not a serious soybean pest, large populations can result in considerable defoliation.