By Scout Nelson
South Dakota's agricultural community is set to benefit from a cooperative initiative aimed at promoting organic farming. The South Dakota Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) has joined the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Plains Transition to Organic Partnership Program (Plains TOPP), enhancing support for local farmers and ranchers interested in shifting to organic methods.
Dr. Angela Jackson, an experienced organic agriculture advisor, leads the program's efforts in South Dakota. Dr. Jackson, who also manages PrairieSun Organics, brings her expertise to help producers navigate the complexities of organic certification and sustainable farming practices.
Under Plains TOPP, SDSPA will provide a broad array of support services, including virtual and on-site technical assistance, informational videos, resource guides, and a schedule of webinars and field days through 2025. These events are designed to facilitate learning and collaboration among new and existing organic farmers.
Key upcoming events include a field day on 'Transitioning to Organic Poultry Production' at PrairieSun Organics on June 21, 2024. Field days are planned for later in the year at Bear Butte Gardens and Dakotas Best Seed, focusing on various aspects of organic farming.
Farmers in South Dakota seeking assistance with the organic transition can contact Dr. Jackson via email at sdspa.organic@gmail.com or by phone at 605-624-1966. With this initiative, SDSPA aims to foster a growing organic sector in South Dakota, contributing to the state's agricultural sustainability and economic growth.
Photo Credit -usda
Categories: South Dakota, Sustainable Agriculture