SDSPA Highlights Soil Health Annual Conference
SDSPA recently joined producers and industry experts at the South Dakota Soil Health Coalition’s annual conference.
The South Dakota Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) recently joined producers and industry experts from across the region at the South Dakota Soil Health Coalition’s annual conference. The event served as a vital platform for advancing the conversation on sustainable land management, with a specific focus on the unique needs of specialty crop producers. At our booth, SDSPA representatives highlighted the critical intersection of soil biology and crop diversity, emphasizing how healthy soil systems serve as the foundation for vibrant, local food networks and resilient urban agriculture.
A primary focus of our participation was the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) grant, supported by the OCIA. We engaged with several producers currently navigating the transition to certified organic production, providing them with comprehensive handouts and technical resources tailored to organic systems. A dedicated session on small-scale urban agriculture also drew significant interest, demonstrating that soil health principles—such as keeping the soil covered and minimizing disturbance—are just as vital in backyard raised beds and community gardens as they are on large-scale acreages.
Beyond the formal presentations, the conference provided invaluable networking opportunities during round table discussions and breakout sessions. We met with various industry partners to brainstorm future collaborations and innovative projects that will support South Dakota’s specialty producers in the coming years. These conversations focused on expanding market access and enhancing technical support for those looking to implement regenerative practices. We left the conference energized by the shared commitment to soil health and look forward to translating these new partnerships into tangible benefits for our members.