Profitability for Transitioning Organic Producers
Video: This webinar focuses on achieving profitability during the transition to organic farming, featuring insights and practical advice from Blake Burggraff, a recently transitioned organic farmer. As transitioning to organic production can present financial challenges, this session covers essential financial practices and strategies that can help mitigate risks and ensure a successful transition. Blake Burggraff […]
About the OTI- RAPP Program
Video: This presentation introduces the Organic Transition Initiative Regenerative Agriculture Pathway Program (OTI-RAPP) and NRCS Organic Management Standard 823 in South Dakota. In this session, two experts in the field: Kelsey Ramerth, NRCS staff member, and Dr. Angela K. Jackson, Organic Agriculture Advisor for S.D. Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) talk about new program in South […]
Organic Policy: Priorities and Advocacy
Video: This 30-minute presentation by Kate Mendenhall, Executive Director of the Organic Farmers Association, was part of the SDSPA Organic Operators Chapter meeting, focusing on key topics including organic policy priorities, clawback letters, and the role of the Organic Farmers Association in advocating for organic agriculture. Recorded: Nov. 13, 2024
A Closer Look at No Chemical Systems for Wholesale Grape Production
Video: Greg and Muriel Stach of Lewis and Clark Lake Vineyard hosted a tour for producers interested in learning about wholesale grape production and no chemical systems. During the tour Greg Stach shared about his experience selling wholesale grapes to Prairie Berry Winery near Hill City, SD including harvest & delivery logistics, variety selection, production […]
Canning and Cottage Laws with SDSU Extension
Video: On Sept. 18, 2024 the S.D. Specialty Producers Farmers Market Coalition heard from SDSU Field Extension Food Safety Specialist Curtis Braun about canning directions and cottage laws. During his presentation Curtis shared about changes to the cottage food laws, labeling requirements, and the new non-evidence based food review program through SDSU. If you have […]
Soil and Nutrient Management in Transitioning to Organic Crop Production
Video: Denise and Mark Venner, Venner Farm, hosted a TOPP (transition to organic) field day on Sept. 7, 2024. Venner Farm grows a variety of organic crops including yellow corn, blue corn, rye, barley, several varieties of wheat, flax, sunflowers, field peas, and garbanzo beans. The tour highlighted the Venner’s high tunnel used for produce […]
Understanding Risks During Organic Transition- 3rd Quarter 2024 TOPP Update
Video: In this video, the SDSPA Organic Ag Transition Advisor discusses the essential elements of creating an effective plan with a focus on contamination prevention for transitioning crop producers. The discussion begins with an overview of the risks associated with contamination from external sources, such as pesticide drift and non-organic inputs, which can compromise organic […]
Transitioning to Organic Vegetable Production- Weed Management
Video: Bear Butte Gardens in Sturgis, SD, led by Rick and Michelle Grosek, is a successful organic vegetable farm certified organic by OCIA. They hosted a SDSPA field day on August 12, 2024, for transitioning organic farmers emphasizing sustainable farming practices. The field day focused on soil health, weed control, pest management, nutrient management, crop […]
Introducing the Transition to Organic Program- 2nd Quarter 2024 TOPP Update
Video: Discover the Transition to Organic Partnership Program in the Plains region with SDSPA! This informative video offers an overview of our initiative to support local farmers in shifting to organic practices. Learn about the benefits of going organic and get details on resources, financial assistance, and expert guidance available through the program. Join us […]
Navigating On-Farm Food Safety Programs
Video: S.D. Specialty Producers hosted a webinar focused on on-farm food safety including FSMA and GAP. Teresa Wiemerslage, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Field Specialist, shared about produce safety programs, discussed best practices, the importance of food safety, and the basics of food safety plans. Wiemerslage is a field specialist with the Farm, Food […]