Local Foods not only provides a sales outlet for farmers, but can help strengthen a community by stimulating the local economy and creating local entrepreneurial opportunities. Farmers markets can promote food quality by reducing the distance that food travels from farm to consumer. When shipping is less of a concern, produce can be picked when it is full of flavor and tender, then quickly put into the hands of consumers seeking fresh products.
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Farmers Market Operation
Farmers Market Regulations
Featured Programs
Farm to School
Farm to school provides an opportunity for youth in early childcare, educational settings, after-school programs and other settings to experience local foods.
Upcoming Events
Fall Festival Specialty Crop Tour @ Sturgis
SDSU Extension will host a Fall Festival Specialty Crop Tour on October 4 from 5:30-8:00 p.m. at Prairie Creek Farm (21282 Tanya Ln, Sturgis, SD 57785).
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.
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Selling Grade A and B Dairy and Dairy Products in South Dakota
There has been an interest in manufacturing and processing dairy products by South Dakota food entrepreneurs. Learn everything you need to know about the basic requirements for processing and selling Grade A and Grade B dairy and dairy products in our state.
SNAP Benefits for Seed and Plant Purchases
Did you know that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participants in South Dakota can purchase seeds and edible plants to grow their own food? It’s true!