By Scout Nelson
The South Dakota Specialty Producers Association will begin its 2026 Fruit and Vegetable Grower season with an online event focused on the Food is Medicine movement. This meeting invites produce growers and others who are interested in learning how local farms can support health focused food programs.
Food is Medicine programs include nutrition incentives, produce prescriptions, and medically tailored groceries, and meals. These programs help people gain better access to healthy foods that may prevent or manage chronic diseases. Fresh fruits and vegetables play a key role in improving diet quality and supporting public health.
Local specialty crop producers can become important partners in these efforts. By supplying fresh produce to Food is Medicine programs, farmers can support their communities while also building new and stable markets for their products. This approach may create an added source of income for small and mid-sized farms across the state.
During the event, Gemma Bastian, Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Nutrition and Health Specialist, and Master Student Olivia Husmann will explain the new South Dakota Food is Medicine Network. They will share how the network connects farmers, health care groups, and community partners. They will also discuss ways that specialty crop growers can take part in this growing effort.
This virtual meeting will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026, at 10 a.m. CT and 9 a.m. MT. Participants must register in advance to receive the Zoom link. The session is open to all fruit and vegetable growers, and anyone interested in the topic. Questions may be directed to Olivia Torbert Jennings by email, sdspainfo@gmail.com.
This event encourages growers to explore new partnerships that link farming and health for stronger communities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables, Rural Lifestyle