By Scout Nelson
The South Dakota Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) continued its “Small Farms, Big Ideas” Summer Farm Tour Series by hosting its second educational event for farmers and community members in the Lake Andes area.
The event was co-hosted with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and took participants to three different farming colonies. During the tour, growers learn about modern farming techniques that increase productivity while supporting long-term sustainability.
One of the main topics of the series is soil health. Experts explain how natural soil biology enhancers and sustainable weed management practices help maintain healthy soils while supporting strong crop growth. Healthy soil improves water retention, reduces erosion, and provides better growing conditions for specialty crops.
Participants also explored advanced farming equipment and precision agriculture tools. Demonstrations included the SUMISANSUI Mark II precision irrigation system, which helps deliver water more efficiently while reducing waste. Farmers saw how precision irrigation supports better crop performance and conserves valuable water resources.
The tour also highlighted innovative specialty crop production systems. Visitors observed tabletop strawberry production, where strawberries are grown above ground for easier management and harvesting.
Companion crops are integrated into the system to improve efficiency and promote healthy growing conditions. Farmers also viewed trellised hardy kiwi production, which demonstrates how vertical growing systems maximize limited space.
Season extension was another important focus of the event. Farm hosts demonstrated affordable structures such as low tunnels, caterpillar tunnels, and protective mulches.
Throughout the day, growers received practical advice directly from experienced producers while viewing successful farming systems in operation.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-joshua-resnick
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Sustainable Agriculture