Field Day to Explore Organic Ancient Grain Production and Milling
Join the South Dakota Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) for an educational field day at Belle Valley Ancient Grains in Newell, SD. The event is designed for transitioning organic producers interested in growing organic ancient grains, as well as individuals exploring opportunities in on-farm grain milling and packaging.
The Sat., June 7, 2025 event will feature presentations and a farm walk from 9 a.m. – noon MDT hosted by owner Brian Stambaugh. Participants are invited to bring a lunch and network from noon to 1 p.m. MDT.
Stambaugh primarily farmed hay, beginning in 2002, but then switched to ancient and heirloom wheat and grains in 2015. He began utilizing chemical free production, but certified as organic in 2018. He now farms 170 irrigated acres, with about half wheat and half hay. Other crops occasionally in the rotation include flaxseed, pinto beans and black beans. Belle Valley retails the grains and fresh milled flour online and from their farm store and sells wholesale to bakeries.
Participants will walk through certified organic ancient grain fields and learn about best practices for transitioning to organic grain production during a guided tour. They will see efficient irrigation systems in action and discuss water management for sustainable grain production.
The field day at Belle Valley Ancient Grains in Newell, S.D. is designed for transitioning organic producers interested in growing organic ancient grains, as well as individuals exploring grain milling and packaging.
Guests will explore organic grain handling techniques, including cleaning, sorting, and storage methods to maintain quality and organic integrity. They will visit the on-farm milling and packaging area to understand value-added processing and market opportunities for ancient grains.
During the event producers are invited to ask questions and hear from experienced organic grain growers and specialists on organic certification, market trends, and profitability strategies.
This interactive event is a great opportunity for farmers, millers, and food entrepreneurs to network, gain hands-on knowledge, and explore the potential of organic ancient grains in South Dakota.
This program is supported through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). TOPP is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP).
Pre-registration is required for this free event.
Register Here