Content by Amanda Bachmann

Striped cucumber beetle and spotted cucumber beetle.

Striped Cucumber Beetles Are Active in South Dakota

South Dakota is home to two species of cucumber beetles that can cause severe injury to cucurbits, including squash, cucumbers, melons and pumpkins. Learn how to detect and manage both beetles before they impact your harvest.

Squash vine borer moth on plant.

Squash Vine Borer Activity Estimate: June 16, 2023

Squash vine borer moths will soon emerge across much of South Dakota, and their larva can cause serious damage to squash plants. See our latest activity predictions and management recommendations based on forecasted conditions from around the state.

Many small, thin insects on a yellow background with a mechanical pencil tip for scale.

Invasion of the Western Flower Thrips

Recent southerly winds brought large numbers of western flower thrips to the eastern third of South Dakota. Learn how to identify and manage this pest before they become a problem in your yard and garden.

Glory of the Snow, Daffodil, and Allium blooming in three gardens.

SDSU Extension launching 2023 Garden Hour webinars in May

April 26, 2023

SDSU Extension’s 2023 weekly Garden Hour series will debut May 2.

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

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.

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.

Several small, light colored grasshopper nymphs feeding on green potato plants. The leaves of the potato plants have small holes in them.

Grasshopper Populations Increasing in South Dakota

Large populations of grasshopper nymphs have been a common observation this year. One concern regarding these populations is that, as the season progresses and they continue to grow, they will need additional resources.