Resources
Food Safety, SDSU Extension
FSMA Standards, FDA
Create a Food Safety Plan Online, Family Farmed
Direct Marketing of Fruit and Processed Fruit Products by Growers & Food Processors at Farmers Markets Within S.D., SDSU Extension
Northern Hardy Fruit Evaluation Project, NDSU
Fruit Program, University of Saskatchewan
Fruit, SDSU Extension
Commercial Fruit Growing Guides, Un. of Minnesota.
Post Harvesting, NC State
Minnesota Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association
A trade association made up of over 100 growers, producers & sellers nation wide that exists to improve, promote, and network all things related to the aronia berry.
Midwest Elderberry Cooperative
The Midwest Elderberry Cooperative (MEC) was formed in 2012, originally as the Minnesota Elderberry Cooperative, to be the organizational vehicle to assist small organic/natural farmers in elderberry production and processing in the Midwest.
SDSPA Fruit & Vegetable Growers
SDSPA’s statewide group for fruit and vegetable producers to network, share questions, learn, and promote the industry.
Latest SDSPA Videos & Resources
Description: This video was filmed onsite at the September 2025 educational field day at Lewis and Clark Lake Vineyard in Yankton, SD, featuring orchard and vineyard biodynamic expert, Greg Stach, and organic transition advisor Dr. Angela Jackson. This video offers a guided orchard walk highlighting practical tips
Description: This video explores practical techniques for extending the growing season, improving berry quality, and protecting plants from unpredictable weather. Organic strawberry production in the Great Plains presents unique challenges, including extreme temperature fluctuations, wind exposure, and shorter growing seasons. Marvin Pritts from Cornell University shares about
Description: This recorded webinar features the S.D. Small Business Development Center (SD SBDC) and Farm Service Agency (FSA). During the recording, Matty Kerr from the SD SBDC shares resources and services available to producers for business planning prior to approaching a lender. Gail Gullickson from FSA discusses
Description: This video is focused on seasonal labor hiring and retention for specialty crop producers. First, hear from Nancy Kirstein, from The Good Earth Farm in Lennox, SD, about a variety of seasonal labor opportunities that The Good Earth Farm has utilized including WOOFing, live-in interns, and
For a complete listing of SDSPA videos, publications, podcasts and recommended resources visit our Resource Library.
Upcoming Events
South Dakota Producers Summit- Rapid City
The South Dakota Producers Summit provides education for specialty crops, niche markets and regenerative integrity. This one-day conference is focused on exploring innovation and opportunities for farmers, ranchers and producers involved in urban and rural agriculture production in the Upper Plains. Thought provoking speakers will provide a wealth
2026 SDSPA Annual Membership Meeting
The South Dakota Specialty Producers Association Annual Membership Meeting will be held in conjunction with the S.D. Producers Summit in Rapid City. MEETING AGENDA (Mountain Time) 12:50-12:55 MT: Welcome & Introductions, Roll Call, Approve Minutes of 2025 Annual Meeting- President Rath. 12:55-1:05 MT: Board of Director Elections-
Webinar: Water Conservation & Water Harvesting Strategies For Small Scale Production
Water is an essential resource for small-scale production systems. Join Robin Buterbaugh, SDSU Extension Horticulture Field Specialist, to learn more about water conservation & water harvesting strategies for small scale production. In this SDSPA webinar we’ll look at a variety of rainwater harvesting and water conservation strategies
Visit SDSPA’s Event Calendar to see all upcoming trainings, tours and other events.
SDSPA’s statewide group for fruit and vegetable producers to network, share questions, learn, and promote the industry.
- Facebook Group
- To join communications please email SDSPA.
