South Dakota State University Extension is hosting the final High Tunnel Field Day of 2023, inviting farmers, technical service providers, garden enthusiasts, and anyone interested in high tunnels to attend from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. CDT on September 21, 2023, at the Beadle Conservation District site in Huron, South Dakota.
Kristine Lang, Rhoda Burrows, Robin Viestenz, and Mark Goldhammer will present on urban farming and high tunnel production in central South Dakota, discussing challenges and opportunities, and collaborating with SDSU Extension Horticulture Specialists and Beadle Conservation District representatives.
The Beadle Conservation District manages a 4 ½ acres urban farming site, offering new markets and public engagement opportunities. Kristine Lang, a partner with Robin, her team, and board members, is excited to host an event in Huron, central South Dakota, partnering with Robin and her team to address zoning, security, and farm management challenges.
The field day will feature a guided tour of the high tunnel, presentations on planning, zoning, construction, crop rotations, soil health management, and vegetable and perennial fruit production.
The site experienced severe storms in May and June 2022, causing damage in eastern South Dakota. Attendees will learn from site managers' experiences in recovering and repairing high tunnels, also known as "hoop houses," which extend the growing season and improve produce quality. These structures are popular among vegetable and flower growers as a cost-effective alternative to traditional greenhouses.
The event is free of charge, with light refreshments provided post-tour and presentations. It's rain-or-shine, with parking directions. Attendees are advised to bring lawn chairs and leave pets at home.
The National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, has provided support for a high tunnel field day as part of the North Central Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program. The USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
Contact Kristine Lang , SDSU Extension Consumer Horticulture Specialist, or the Beadle Conservation District at beadlecd@sdconservation.net for further details.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-milos-cirkovic
Categories: South Dakota, General