Farmers Gain Market Insights at South Dakota Event

By Scout Nelson

A farmer and buyer networking event in South Dakota brought producers, buyers, government representatives, and agriculture experts together to discuss local markets and new business opportunities.

On September 21, 2026, more than 50 participants attended “Sow the Connection: Organic and Local Farmer Buyer Networking and Market Education.” The event took place at The Veranda at The Meadow Barn in Harrisburg, South Dakota.

The free public event ran from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and included lunch. It featured 10 vendors and four representatives from state and federal government agencies. The event focused on helping farmers understand local markets while giving buyers an opportunity to meet producers.

Participants heard from speakers representing the government and the agriculture industry. The discussions focused on the growing interest in organic and regenerative agriculture and its role in local food, feed and specialty crop markets.

The event also provided practical information for producers who wanted to expand their operations. Policy advisors, organic production experts, and regenerative agriculture specialists shared information about markets and explained different opportunities available to farmers.

One important part of the event was the connection between farmers and buyers. Buyers looking for locally produced goods had an opportunity to meet producers who were interested in reaching new markets.

These conversations helped both groups better understand each other's needs. Buyers learned more about available local products and producers, while farmers learned what buyers looked for when purchasing agricultural products.

Farmers also learned from one another during the event. Producers shared experiences and best practices related to selling products through different markets. These conversations gave participants practical ideas that they could consider for their own operations.

The event placed a strong focus on organic and regenerative agriculture. These areas continue to provide opportunities for farmers interested in different production systems and local food markets.

By bringing several groups together in one location, the event created opportunities for direct communication.

“Sow the Connection” provided a space where farmers could learn about market opportunities while buyers could discover producers who were prepared to serve new markets.

The combination of education, networking, and direct conversations helped participants build useful relationships. Farmers gained information from buyers, experts, and other producers, while buyers had a chance to better understand local production.

Photo Credit: getty-images-eric-ferguson