By Scout Nelson
The South Dakota Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) and SDSU Extension are hosting an in-person workshop in Brookings to help participants learn about permaculture and food forests. The event offers both classroom instruction and hands-on learning for anyone interested in sustainable gardening and land management.
The workshop begins at McCrory Gardens on September 19, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. During this session, SDSU Horticulture Field Specialist Robin Buterbaugh will explain the basic principles of permaculture and how people can begin using these practices on their own land.
After the morning presentation, participants will travel to the Brookings Food Forest at the Douglas Chittick Community Gardens from 11:00 a.m. to noon. This field visit allows attendees to see how permaculture ideas work in a real-growing environment.
Permaculture is a method of designing landscapes that work with nature instead of against it. The goal is to create productive systems that provide food while protecting natural resources and supporting healthy ecosystems.
Many permaculture practices focus on improving long-term sustainability. These methods may include organic gardening, agroforestry, water harvesting, natural building techniques, and community-based projects. Together, these approaches help improve soil health, conserve water, increase biodiversity, and create productive growing spaces.
Food forests are another important part of permaculture. Instead of growing only one crop, food forests combine trees, shrubs, vegetables, herbs, and other plants that work together. These diverse plant systems produce food while creating healthy habitats for wildlife and beneficial insects.
For registration, click here.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-joshua-resnick
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Sustainable Agriculture