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people shopping at a farmer's market

Requirements for Food Entrepreneurs Selling Food in South Dakota

Throughout the country and in the state of South Dakota, people are showing more interest in selling their own food products and starting their own business

A woman rinsing vegetables off in an outdoor sink.

Food Safety Rules for Fruit & Vegetable Growers: FAQ

It seems rules and guidelines for growing fresh produce safely are constantly changing, as new laws and regulations are implemented each year.

two whole apples behind a small pile of dehydrated apple slices

Dehydrating Apples

A food dehydrator is a good choice for drying apples and can be used at any time. It is a small appliance that has an electric element for heat with a fan and vents for air circulation.

woman wearing gloves preparing servings of vegetables. USDA Photo Courtesy of Bob Nichols.

Disposable Gloves: Guidelines for Food Handlers

Improper handling of food and poor personal hygiene by food handlers are leading causes of foodborne illness. Disposable gloves do not take the place of good hygiene and proper hand-washing.

a garden with several different areas and types of plants growing

Garden Food Safety

Every so often we hear about people getting sick from eating raw produce that got contaminated somewhere on its path from the field to the consumer. Commercial growers are taking great care to keep your food safe, and there are new national rules to guide them. Following are some tips for home gardeners to help keep their fruits and vegetables safe.

freshly harvested leafy greens

Best Practices When Harvesting Leafy Greens for Market and Home

The harvesting of leafy greens to maintain quality and safety focuses on the key risk factors from the time harvest begins to selling at market. The food safety risk factors involve temperature, time, water, worker hygienic practices, and food contact surfaces.

Small crew of workers removing snow from the roof of a pole barn.

Post-Snowstorm Building Inspection and Snow Removal

Snowstorms can push even the sturdiest structures to their limits. Learn some expert tips for evaluating facilities, determining their snow load capacity, and safely removing snow during the aftermath of a blizzard.

Farmer calibrating a yield monitor insde a combine cab.

Comprehensive Guide to Grain Yield Monitoring Systems

A comprehensive guide to grain yield monitoring systems

a stretching field of green corn plants

Comparing Yield Goal and Maximum Return to Nitrogen Prediction Methods for Determining Corn Economic Optimal Nitrogen Rates

Fact sheet evaluating the accuracy of different corn nitrogen recommendation approaches with their advantages and disadvantages.

a picture large purple flowers with yellow centers surrounded by dead leaves and grey landscaping rocks.

Landscaping Best Practices for Pollinators and Beyond

Our yards are all part of a greater ecosystem. By incorporating some best practices into your landscaping routine, your yard can develop healthier soil, support more pollinators, and reduce the need for pest control.