SDSU Organic Farming Conference on March 12

By Scout Nelson

SDSU Extension and the SDSU Southeast Research Farm will host an organic farming conference on March 12 from 8:45 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. The event will take place at the Best Western Plus Ramkota Hotel, 3200 W Maple St., Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

This conference will focus on practical and science-based strategies for farmers who are certified organic or transitioning to organic production. The program is funded by the Organic Crop Improvement Association Transition to Organic Production Program. It will bring together farmers, researchers, and extension specialists to share knowledge and experience in organic crop production.

The day will begin with registration and coffee at 8:45 a.m. Sessions will start at 9:15 a.m. with a presentation on soil health principles. Topics throughout the day include new tools for weed control in organic systems, lessons from 50 years of organic crop production in South Dakota, and organic no-till crop production in Indiana.

After lunch, speakers will cover food quality and the human gut microbiome. Additional sessions will focus on using ecological principles to reduce tillage in organic systems, the strategic use of organic herbicides in fragile soil environments and using a flamer for weed control in Minnesota. A speaker panel will take place before the program ends at 3:40 p.m.

The conference supports farmers who want to improve soil health, reduce tillage, manage weeds, and increase long-term crop performance. It also provides helpful guidance for growers who are new to organic farming and those with years of experience.

The cost to attend is $25, and the fee includes lunch. Participants are encouraged to register in advance using Eventbrite. For more information, farmers may contact Sasha Huether by email, sasha.huether@sdstate.edu.

This event offers a full day of learning, networking, and practical advice to help organic farmers succeed.

Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university