Field Day to Focus on Transitioning to Organic Vegetable Production
Join S.D. Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) on the farm to discuss effective weed management in organic vegetable production and cover crop usage, an essential component of integrated weed management. The event will take place at Bear Butte Gardens in Sturgis, S.D. on Mon., Aug. 12, 2024 from 10 a.m. —2 p.m. MDT.
Farm owners Michelle and Rick Grosek will provide an overview of the operation and present on weed management. The Groseks have operated Bear Butte Gardens since 2011 and certified vegetables and hay as organic beginning in 2012. The gardens, which were initially just Michelle’s adventure, have now grown to employ three additional part-time employees during the growing season.
Discussion will include the combination of cultural, mechanical, biological, and manual practices involved in organic production. They will share the crucial role cover crops play by competing with weeds, improving soil health, and providing a physical barrier to weed growth. Cover cropping, rotational planting, various methods of mulching, and composting are all ongoing goals on the farm.
Dr. Angela Jackson, the S.D. Organic Ag Transition Advisor with SDSPA, will discuss programs and resources that are needed to help farmers with transitioning to organic agriculture. Dr. Jackson has experience in organic crop and livestock production as a certified organic producer in South Dakota and a lead organic auditor for the organic food and feed sectors.
Guests will have an opportunity to walk and tour the fields of Bear Butte Gardens. Chef Travis Bartels will offer a $15 meal that includes vegetable soup, a sandwich on freshly baked bread, and dessert. Beverages will be available for purchase.
Pre-registration is required for this free event.
TOPP Vegetable Production RegistrationThis event is hosted by SDSPA through support from 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).
Additional field days supporting producers transitioning to organic are planned this summer. Save the dates for a Sept. 7th field day at Venner Farm in Pierre, S.D. on soil and nutrient management and a Sept. 20th field day at Dakota’s Best Seeds in Platte, S.D on seed grain cleaning and handling. For a full listing of events visit SDSPA Event Calendar.