By Scout Nelson
Grasshoppers may become a problem in South Dakota in 2025. Experts believe this increase is due to a late hard freeze in the fall of 2024, which gave grasshoppers more time to lay eggs. These eggs are likely to hatch this season, causing larger grasshopper populations in many areas.
Another reason for the expected rise is the ongoing drought across the state. Grasshoppers often become more active in dry weather because they lose access to natural plants and start feeding on crops instead.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) surveys grasshopper numbers in western South Dakota. The 2024 survey showed some areas already reached concerning population levels.
South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension received multiple reports of grasshopper problems in both western and eastern regions of the state.
Farmers are advised to begin scouting for grasshoppers soon after planting and to keep checking throughout the season.
Grasshoppers can cause serious crop damage, including eating leaves, reducing plant stands, and damaging harvestable parts. These effects can lead to major yield losses if not controlled in time.
South Dakota has many types of grasshoppers, but only three species usually reach large numbers. These are the two-striped grasshopper, the redlegged grasshopper, and the differential grasshopper.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Poultry, Weather