Tour to Feature Organic Seed Grain Cleaning and Handling
Join the S.D. Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) for an insightful learning experience at Dakota’s Best Seed facility in Platte, S.D. to explore the critical practices and protocols necessary to maintain organic integrity throughout all the steps in seed grain cleaning and handling during a facility tour on Sept. 20, 2024 from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. CDT.
This unique USDA Transitioning to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) event is perfect for transitioning organic farmers, processors, and agricultural professionals interested in gaining in-depth knowledge about maintaining organic integrity in seed grain processing and handling.
Todd DenBesten, 2nd generation owner, will provide an overview of the facility and its commitment to organic standards. During the tour participants will walk through the facility to observe how organic seeds are handled and processed. They will view storage solutions to gain insight into best practices for storing organic seeds to prevent contamination and preserve quality. Guests will also observe how Dakota’s Best ensures accurate organic labeling and packaging to meet regulatory standards.
Dakota’s Best Seed facility in Platte, S.D.
Dr. Angela Jackson, the S.D. Organic Ag Transition Advisor with SDSPA, will discuss the importance of maintaining organic integrity from seed to market and organic seed handling protocols including segregation practices, demonstrations on cleaning and sanitizing equipment, and documentation and traceability. DenBesten and Jackson will provide time for Q&A and networking to clarify any questions about organic seed processing.
Pre-registration is required for this free event.
Registration: TOPP Seed IntegrityLunch is not provided during this event, and participants are encouraged to bring their own meal to eat during open networking time.
This event is hosted by SDSPA through support from the USDA TOPP. This is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP).
An additional field day supporting producers transitioning to organic planned for Oct. 1, 2024 at Albrecht’s Angel Honey Farm and Vineyard Winery in Huron, S.D. on ‘Marketing the Whole Crop Rotation’ featuring diverse crop rotations, the cultivation of aronia berries and grapes, and the direct marketing of wine and juice products. SDSPA will also coordinate educational webinars this fall and winter to help support those transitioning to organic. For a full listing of events visit the SDSPA Events Calendar.