Day County Conservation District

09/04/2026

Emerald Ash Borer in SD

EAB was first detected in Michigan in 2002. Since then it has spread across the Midwest and now into South Dakota. It was first found in Sioux Falls in 2018 and spread in the SE part of the state. From there it has moved to Brookings County (2024), Codington and Grant County (2025) and most recently, the Fargo Metro Area and Bismark, ND (2026).

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant-pests-diseases/eab/eab-infestation-map

09/03/2026

Emerald Ash Borer in SD

Emerald ash borer is a serious threat to all ash trees in North America. This small boring beetle was accidentally introduced into Michigan several years ago in ash crates from China. Since that time the beele has been responsible for the loss of millions of ash trees in the eastern Uninted States and Canada.

The insect, a close relative to the bronze birch borer, is an aggressive killer of all ash species, including green ash, white ash, black ash, blue ash, and Manchurian ash and their many cultivars and hybrids No ash can be considered safe from infestation.

The beetle can fly up to several miles to find a suitable host but its rapid spread across Michigan and into other states has been through the movement of infested firewood an nursery stock.

https://emeraldashborerinsouthdakota.sd.gov/

09/03/2026

🌾 Explore South Dakota’s native prairie!

Join South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks and The Nature Conservancy in South Dakota for a FREE Native Prairie Tour & Management event at Schurman Game Production Area near Waverly on Saturday, September 5 from 9 a.m.–noon.

See native prairie management in action, learn about prescribed fire, prairie restoration, native plants, seed harvesting, w**d management and more. All ages are welcome!

Check out the flyer for details and directions.

09/02/2026

What's next for the Webster Tree Boulevard Program? Come find out! We're looking for volunteers, leaders, and knowledgeable people to help shape the Webster urban forest. We will recap 2026, discuss the Emerald Ash Borer in SD, and start to plan for 2027. Everyone is invited. Wednesday, September 9, 5:30pm at City Hall.

09/02/2026

We're celebrating success!

08/28/2026

We're having a party, a pollinator party that is! Come join the fun at the SD State Fair.! Thursday, September 3. See you there!

Join the fun at the SD State Fair on Thursday at the Value Added Tent. SD Conservation District Employees will have a booth all day in the tent. At 12:45 pm we will have a presentation outside of the tent. Join us for the fun!!! All ages are welcome!

08/26/2026

What are we planting in Day County? Here is the top 10 list:

08/26/2026

We have new contact information! To reach the USDA Webster Service center (FSA, NRCS, Conservation District) dial 605-519-7799. The Conservation District also maintains a local number @ 605-345-4667. Spread the word. Thanks!

08/21/2026

SDSHC is helping producers adopt regenerative grazing practices through the use of virtual fence collars! Learn more at https://www.keloland.com/news/local-news/cattle-producers-try-out-virtual-fencing/

07/30/2026

Looking for a cover crop mix? We have what you need! Drop ship available. Call for orders and questions, 605-345-4661 ext 3.