By Scout Nelson
On June 7, the South Dakota Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) hosted an insightful field day at Belle Valley Ancient Grains in Newell, South Dakota. The event welcomed producers and grain enthusiasts to learn about the farm-to-package journey of ancient grains.
Brian Stambaugh, owner of Belle Valley, shared his transition story from hay farming to certified organic grain production. He began his farming journey in 2002 focusing on hay and later shifted to ancient and heirloom wheat and other grains in 2015. After a few years of chemical-free practices, Stambaugh became USDA-certified organic in 2018.
Today, he operates 170 irrigated acres, dividing production between hay and wheat. Additional crops like flaxseed, pinto beans, and black beans are occasionally rotated in. Attendees explored his on-farm operations, learning about the growing and marketing of organic grains, irrigation systems, and the complexities of organic certification.
The tour also featured grain cleaning and milling techniques. Belle Valley not only grows the grains but mills them into fresh flour, which is sold online, through a farm store, and to local bakeries.
This field day was part of the USDA’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), which supports producers in adopting organic practices. Administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service’s National Organic Program, TOPP is designed to help farmers like Stambaugh transition successfully and sustainably.
By sharing his experiences, Stambaugh provided practical knowledge to others interested in organic grain production and processing. Events like this empower local producers and promote sustainable agriculture in South Dakota.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-prostock-studio
Categories: South Dakota, Business, Crops, Wheat