BROOKINGS, S.D. – Specialty crop producers across the region will have an opportunity to strengthen their business skills and learn new strategies for managing risk through a six week virtual program offered by South Dakota State University Extension finance and horticulture experts.
Designed specifically for growers with at least one year of production experience, this program focuses on helping fruit, flower and vegetable farmers navigate the complex and rapidly changing agricultural environment. Participants will gain practical education, expert insight and peer support tailored to specialty crop operations.
Sessions will be live via Zoom on Monday evenings from 6:30 to 9 p.m. (CDT) on Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, and Dec. 7, 2026, and participants are asked to attend all six meetings to gain the full benefit of the curriculum. Registration is $50, which covers program materials and access to all sessions. To register, visit the SDSU Extension Event page and search “annie”.
Throughout the six sessions, participants will explore key areas of agricultural risk management, including business structures, marketing strategies, production planning, financial decision making, legal considerations and human resource management. The program also includes guidance on U.S. Department of Agriculture programs, insurance coverage options and effective communication within family run operations. Each session features speakers with expertise in specialty crops, farm business management, agricultural law and risk management.
Kristine Lang, assistant professor and SDSU Extension Consumer Horticulture Specialist, said specialty crop producers often face distinct pressures, from evolving markets and labor needs to regulatory requirements, weather variability and family decision making. The program equips participants with tools to address these challenges while building confidence in their business management skills.
Lang and Lorna Saboe-Wounded Head, Family Resource Management Field Specialist, are facilitating the program. Nick Volesky, SDSU Extension Horticulture and Specialty Crops Field Specialist, is assisting with the program. This program is modeled after Annie’s Project, which is designed for women in agriculture and available to all interested in agricultural business.
“I am excited to collaborate with farmers and state experts to dive into the unique challenges faced by specialty crop producers. While talking about things like finances, taxes, and insurance can feel daunting, my goal is to facilitate meaningful conversations around these topics where producers feel free to ask anything,” Lang said. “I want fruit, flower and vegetable farmers to walk away with confidence to make positive changes on their farms.”
In addition to technical training, participants will have opportunities to connect with other specialty crop producers, share experiences and learn from peers who understand the realities of working in a dynamic and demanding industry. Program organizers note that this network often becomes a long term source of encouragement, problem solving, and continued learning.
For more information, contact Kristine Lang, assistant professor and SDSU Extension Consumer Horticulture Specialist, or Lorna Saboe-Wounded Head, SDSU Extension Family Resource Management Field Specialist.
Upcoming Events
Annie's Project for Specialty Producers
SDSU Extension will host a six-week virtual Annie's Project workshop series for specialty crop producers on November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 and December 7, 2026 from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. CST each day.
