By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is excited to announce an educational event focused on growing vegetables in high tunnels at Cherry Rock Farms. This event, the High Tunnel and Vegetable Production Field Day, will take place on July 23, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. CDT at the Brandon-area farm. The event is free to attend, and a complimentary picnic lunch will be provided for all attendees.
The event will feature a walking tour of the farm’s vegetable production fields, high tunnels, and retail stores. Cherry Rock Farms is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and the event offers a unique opportunity to learn from fourth-generation owners, Laura and Marco Patzer. They will lead the tours and be available to answer questions about their farm’s operations.
The event is open to current and beginning farmers, technical service providers, gardeners, and anyone interested in learning more about vegetable production in high tunnels. Additionally, those interested in scaling up production, transitioning to certified organic farming, or selling produce through wholesale or direct-to-consumer markets are encouraged to attend.
Kristine Lang, assistant professor and SDSU Extension Consumer Horticulture Specialist, praised the farm’s exceptional soil and weather conditions, which contribute to the high-quality vegetables produced at Cherry Rock Farms. Lang also highlighted that the farm owners are a valuable resource for anyone looking to expand their knowledge of vegetable farming.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables