In the news:  "Termites present in most of SD"



Last Updated on Wednesday, February 8, 2006 by Mike Catangui.
 

Termites In South Dakota?         

Yes Virginia, there are termites in South Dakota.  The Eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes
flavipes) is the only species that I have seen so far.  And since this species is native to the United
States, I am of the opinion that termites have always been in South Dakota.  We just did not think
of them too much because of our cold winters.

Reports of damage to structures remain low compared to other states like California, Florida, and
even our neighbor to the south - the Cornhusker state.  The USDA Forest Service (Home and Garden
Bulletin 64, 1986) placed the southeastern portion of South Dakota under Region III (slight to moderate
hazard to termite infestation), and the northwestern portion under Region IV (none to slight infestation
hazard).  These designations, however, may not be accurate.

In my experience of less than 10 years on the job as Extension Entomologist, I have already received
actual specimens and anecdotal reports of termites from 29 SD counties.  Again, termite infestation
in the state has been low.   Even in cities where termites have damaged homes, infestations are
confined to specific blocks in the neighborhood.  Due to severe reductions in home values if termites
were detected, I am unable to tell you which neighborhoods in the state may have termites.

Do not panic if your county is one of those reporting termites.  Some unscrupulous pest control
operators may use scare tactics to make you spend hard-earned dollars.  If they tell you that you have
termites, make them produce the evidence, then send it to me or your local extension office. We will
then identify the specimen accurately.

Termites will take about 4 months to consume a foot long 2 x 4 piece of wood.  So you have time to
seek unbiased, accurate, and state-of-the-art information from your friendly SDSU Extension Educator.

Homeowners, before you spend thousands of dollars on termite control, at least let SDSU Extension
Entomology help you identify your insect specimen for free (yes, free).  And if indeed you have termites,
we will assist you in planning for a control strategy.

SDSU Extension Entomology plans to conduct termite informational meetings soon.  Contact your
Extension office for details.  Meanwhile, here are some pictures of termite forms or castes, mud tubes,
and damaged wood to aid you in inspecting your home.  As the name implies, subterranean termites
need contact with the soil for warmth, protection from natural enemies, and moisture. Wood, paper,
and anything with cellulose in it are food for them.  Termites are attracted to perennially wet areas
caused by leaky faucets, clogged gutters, heavy mulch, and pipe condensation.


                                                                                       

Winged termites can be confused with winged ants (especially carpenter ants).  Side by side drawings
and real pictures of termites and ants may help in distinguishing between the two insects.  Carpenter
ants are common in SD and can also damage wood. However, unlike termites, they do not use wood
as food.  Carpenter ants, like most ants,  feed on sweets, grease, and small insects.  Wood is damaged
only when carpenter ants use it for nesting.  And since wood is not used for their nutrition, it would take
several years before appreciable damage is done to the wood.

                                                                                                                                       


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 Web Posted on November 5, 1999 by Mike Catangui. Last Updated on Wednesday, February 8, 2006.