South Dakota Farm Tour Highlights Specialty Crops and Poultry

By Scout Nelson

The South Dakota Specialty Producers Association is organizing a summer farm tour in the Kadoka region to highlight innovative specialty crop and poultry farming practices across western South Dakota. The event will take place on June 10, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. CDT and will connect farmers, agricultural professionals, and community members with producers using creative farming methods in challenging growing conditions.

The event, called “Small Farms, Big Ideas: SDSPA Summer Farm Tour,” is the first of three planned guided bus tours across the state. Organizers say the tour focuses on improving farm profitability through year-round production systems, poultry integration, niche crops, and labor-saving equipment.

The tour begins at Kadoka Area School in Kadoka, South Dakota. Participants will visit three farms that use different production systems and technologies.

The first stop is XS Farms in Martin, operated by Kris and Chad Kratovil. Visitors will learn how deep winter greenhouse systems allow farmers to grow crops and maintain harvests during cold winter months.

The second stop is England Ranch in Midland, owned by George and Suzanne England. This portion of the tour focuses on pasture-raised poultry production, chicken tractor systems, and free-range egg production methods. Participants will see how movable poultry systems help improve land management and livestock production.

The final stop is Cedar Creek Gardens in Midland, operated by Peggy Martin and Bud Manke. Visitors will explore sweet corn transplanting methods for early harvests, low-tunnel crop production, and high-tunnel ginger and turmeric production. Demonstrations will also include early-season cantaloupe and potato production under different protective tunnel systems.

The tour also highlights post-harvest efficiency through homemade labor-saving equipment such as automated root washers, green spinners, and washing systems for egg flats and microgreen trays.

Organizers say the event offers practical information for farmers interested in extending growing seasons, adding poultry systems, and improving farm efficiency. Registration costs $16 per person and includes bus transportation and lunch. The registration deadline is June 3. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and prepare for outdoor walking conditions. For registration, click here.

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