By Scout Nelson
Natalie Sturm returned to the Dakota Lakes Research Farm as the new farm manager after years of academic and research experience connected to the same farm. She first learned about the farm during her undergraduate studies and later reached out to former manager Dwayne Beck for opportunities.
After completing her master’s research work at the farm and finishing her Ph.D., Sturm accepted the role when the opportunity arose. She said, “Toward the end of my Ph.D. program, the opportunity to be the new manager at Dakota Lakes Research Farm arose — and I knew I couldn’t turn it down.” She also added, “There are very few places like Dakota Lakes: a research station where my job is to be both a farmer and a scientist.”
In her new role, Sturm is responsible for managing the daily operations of the 1,200-acre research farm. The farm studies different crop systems and focuses on no-till farming, which was strongly supported by Beck, who retired after more than 35 years of service.
Sturm shared, “My passion for systems-based agronomy and soil research only continued to increase during my master’s program, and I am so excited to continue the no-till crop rotations work of Dwayne while also expanding my research program to continue tackling new challenges and ideas.”
She completed her education at Montana State University, South Dakota State University, and Washington State University. In her first months, she plans to learn about farm operations and connect with farmers, scientists, and local stakeholders.
The Dakota Lakes Research Farm operates through a partnership between a university college and a nonprofit farmer-led group. This collaboration supports research that helps farmers improve productivity and protect the environment.
Sturm also said, “I am always open to talking with South Dakota farmers, researchers, and the general public…” She expressed interest in meeting people at the annual field day and continuing to support agriculture.
The farm’s annual field day is scheduled for June 25, offering a chance for the public to learn more about ongoing research and farming practices.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki
Categories: South Dakota, Education