South Dakota Fair Hosts Farmer Share Event

By Scout Nelson

During the South Dakota State Fair on August 30, more than 1,000 fairgoers enjoyed a pulled pork sandwich, chips, and milk for just 52 cents at the Farmers Share Lunch. This special price highlighted the actual farmer’s share of the ingredients compared to what consumers pay at grocery stores.

“There is a big difference between what we all pay at the grocery store and the share the farmer receives for the food they raise,” explained Karla Hofhenke, Executive Director of South Dakota Farmers Union.

The event aimed to build understanding of the economic challenges facing family farmers and ranchers while giving consumers a chance to meet those behind South Dakota’s largest industry. “After a fairgoer learns how little we receive for the food we produce, they say it really opens their eyes,” explained one producer. With beef reaching $8 a pound and buns priced at $3 in stores, many fairgoers were surprised to learn that farmers only receive a fraction of the cost.

Visitors Megan and Derek Pedersen expressed their concerns. “It sounds like a lot of hard work for nothing,” Derek said. Megan added, “Sounds like changes should be made. Because the processors/packagers seem to be making most of the profit, not the people who put in the blood, sweat and tears.”

In addition to the meal, the South Dakota Farmers Union used the fair as a platform for advocacy, encouraging farmers to share their story with the public. Members handed out stickers and backpacks with farm-friendly messages, helping highlight the importance of grassroots outreach.

The organization also hosted the 2025 Farm Safety Quiz Bowl, where FFA teams competed for prizes, stressing the importance of farm safety for youth. Another highlight was a property tax forum titled Who Pays the Bill? South Dakota’s Property Tax Crossroads, where legislative leaders and local officials joined discussions with fairgoers.

By combining education, advocacy, and community engagement, the Farmers Share Lunch and related activities reinforced agriculture’s importance to South Dakota while sparking conversations about fairness, safety, and the future of farming.

Photo Credit:south-dakota-state-fair