By Scout Nelson
Exciting times for sustainable agriculture enthusiasts! The South Dakota State University Extension is rolling out a comprehensive High Tunnel Short Course. Set over two days at the Outdoor Campus – West in Rapid City, this course scheduled for October 16-17 promises a deep dive into high tunnel agriculture.
The engaging lineup features a mix of theoretical sessions and hands-on site visits. The SDSU Extension horticulture team will be at the helm, alongside researchers from North Dakota State University, seasoned South Dakota farmers, and industry virtuosos.
Day one promises a jam-packed schedule from 8:15 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. MT, offering a total of eight illuminating presentations. These will touch on the nuances of high tunneling, production strategies, and economic aspects. At the podium we will see familiar faces like Kristine Lang, Rhoda Burrows, and Esther McGinnis, among others.
On the second day, the focus shifts to real-world examples. Participants will embark on enlightening tours of Feather II in the Pine Ridge Reservation and Spearfish’s Budding Moon Farm. Each site provides unique insights.
For instance, Feather II, a project by the nonprofit Re-Member, sprawls over 160 acres and houses two high tunnels. Budding Moon Farm showcases a nifty mobile high tunnel, boasting resilience against all weather conditions.
Kristine Lang, an assistant professor and specialist at SDSU Extension, emphasizes the unique offerings each day brings. While October 16 is all about the theory, October 17 offers a tangible experience with site tours. "Both days harmoniously complement each other," Lang shared, encouraging enthusiasts to register for both sessions.
The event comes with the backing of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and the North Central Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program.
Interested parties can visit extension.sdstate.edu/events and search “High Tunnel” to register.
Photo Credit: SDSU Extension
Categories: South Dakota, Education