As stated by the National Farm to School Network, farm-to-school enriches the connection communities have with fresh, healthy food and local food producers by changing food purchasing and education practices at schools and early care and education settings. Farm to school programs include one or more of three core elements: 1) local food procurement, 2) school or youth gardens and 3) education.
Learn about farm to school with the following resources:
South Dakota Farm to School Stories
Innovative farm to school programming is happening across South Dakota. The stories shared on this page are some of many examples from farm to school leaders of different perspectives (ex. school food service, producer, community member, administrator, etc.). These stories highlight the fact that farm to school is for everyone and can be done in many ways.
Featured Resources
South Dakota Farm to School Resource Guide
South Dakota's resource guide for starting a Farm to School
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Serving Bison and Beef in USDA Child Nutrition Programs in South Dakota
This FAQ document provides responses to commonly asked questions about serving beef and bison in South Dakota Child Nutrition Program (CNP) meals and snacks.
Grow Getters: Garden-Based Education for Preschool-3rd Grades
The “Grow Getters” series consists of lessons and resources to engage youth and families in hands-on, at-home activities related to gardening—even without a garden!
South Dakota Farm to School Network
The South Dakota Farm to School Network is an open group of individuals and organizations whose work or personal interests align with the components of farm to school. Learn how you or your organization can get involved today!
Bringing the Farm to School: Producer Training
Schools offer a strong market opportunity for agricultural producers. Farmers, ranchers, and local food processors can learn strategies for selling products to school markets at the Bringing the Farm to School: Producer Training.
Upcoming Events
South Dakota Crunch Off
The South Dakota Crunch Off is an annual statewide event to celebrate local produce and farm to school by crunching into any South Dakota grown fruit or vegetable.
Related Content
SDSU Extension encourages South Dakotans to join annual Crunch Off event
September 05, 2023
The South Dakota Crunch off celebrates local produce and SDSU Extension’s Farm to School programs with a friendly interstate competition to see which state’s residents can encourage the most residents to eat local fruits and vegetables from Sept. 18 to Oct. 13.
Voices for Home Modification of the Dakotas
The Voices for Home Modification coalition seeks to increase knowledge about the role home design plays in quality of life for people with mobility limitations. Learn more about their mission and how you can get involved today!
South Dakota Farm to School Network
The South Dakota Farm to School Network is an open group of individuals and organizations whose work or personal interests align with the components of farm to school. Learn how you or your organization can get involved today!