By Scout Nelson
Agriculture is central to South Dakota’s identity, and the recent Governor’s Ag Summit in Deadwood brought together leaders, farmers, and innovators to support and strengthen this vital industry.
Hosted near the Governor’s hometown, the summit emphasized unity in advancing South Dakota agriculture. Participants shared ideas, built connections, and left inspired to find new opportunities in farming and ranching.
Family farms were a major focus. Generations of South Dakota families have built a legacy through agriculture. The summit highlighted the updated Keep Farmers Farming program.
This effort, supported by the South Dakota Ag Foundation and First Dakota National Bank, helps farmers with estate planning. It ensures land, values, and work ethic are passed on to future generations.
The event also spotlighted agriculture opportunities made possible by national support. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has worked to boost the state’s timber, ethanol, and poultry industries.
From helping the Black Hills timber economy to supporting ethanol growth and managing bird flu risks, her efforts help secure long-term stability for South Dakota farmers.
The Governor’s Open for Opportunity tour showcased progress across the state, including advancements in precision agriculture, grain processing, and the dairy sector. These developments promise a stronger and more efficient future for agriculture.
Attendees were encouraged to see challenges as opportunities. South Dakota’s history, built by strong-willed homesteaders, inspires today’s ag community.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-luc-pouliot
Categories: South Dakota, Government & Policy, Livestock, Dairy Cattle, Sustainable Agriculture