BROOKINGS, S.D. — The South Dakota State University Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Sciences and SDSU Extension have welcomed Shelby Pritchard as a SDSU Extension Pest Management Specialist. In her role as a pest management specialist, Pritchard will focus on the creation of integrated pest management content, as well as research to better understand the yield-limiting factors for South Dakota’s major crops.

Pritchard received both her bachelor’s degree in Biology and Animal Ecology in 2015 and her master’s degree in Entomology in 2017 from Iowa State University.

“The department is thrilled to have her [Pritchard] join our team,” said David Wright, Head of the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science. “Her skills make her a great asset for the department and the state.”

Pritchard says she has always been interested in insects, and after working as an undergraduate research assistant, she decided to pursue entomology. She has always been intrigued by research and has enjoyed working with other entomologists.

“I am excited to work with other SDSU Extension specialists and help develop content that will positively impact the lives of stakeholders in South Dakota,” said Pritchard.

Pritchard can be contacted at Shelby.Pritchard@sdstate.edu (605) 688-4600.

— SDSU Extension