STURGIS, S.D. — South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is set to showcase the rapidly growing world of organic agriculture in western South Dakota.
Beginning in the morning, Friday, July 17, at 9:00 a.m., producers, gardeners, and agricultural enthusiasts will gather at the SDSU West River Research Farm in Sturgis for the highly anticipated West River Organic Farm Tour.
Led by Christopher Graham, Associate Professor and SDSU Extension Agronomist, this free, day-long educational event will take participants on a journey through local organic plots, diversified family farms, grain operations, and sustainable urban farming systems across the Black Hills region.
Exploring the Future of Organic Farming
Organic agriculture continues to gain traction in South Dakota as producers look for ways to improve soil health, diversify their operations, and tap into premium markets.
Tomorrow’s tour offers a firsthand look at how regional research and local operations are successfully navigating the unique climate of western South Dakota.
“This tour is an incredible opportunity to see organic practices in action, from experimental research plots to full-scale commercial operations,” says Graham.
Behind the Scenes: The Full Schedule
The event kicks off in Sturgis and winds through Newell and Spearfish before wrapping up in the late afternoon. Below is the official agenda for the day:
| Time | Activity / Location |
| 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM | Welcome & Refreshments Kickoff at the SDSU West River Research Farm (13370 Alkali Rd., Sturgis, SD). |
| 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Organic Research Plot Tour Explore the active research trials and general farm practices at the West River Research Farm. |
| 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Bear Butte Gardens & Lunch A tour of the Sturgis-based organic vegetable and livestock farm, followed by lunch. |
| 1:45 PM – 3:00 PM | Belle Valley Grains Travel to Newell to see organic small grain production and processing in action. |
| 3:45 PM – 4:30 PM | Cycle Farms Stop in Spearfish to learn about intensive urban organic farming and composting. |
| 5:15 PM | Return Arrive back at the West River Research Farm. |
Featured Stops Highlight Diversity
Participants will get a well-rounded view of what organic production looks like at different scales:
- SDSU West River Research Farm: Attendees will get updates on the latest university research, focusing on crop rotations, cover crops, and soil health strategies tailored to dryland organic systems.
- Bear Butte Gardens: A staple of the local food community, this diversified farm showcases organic vegetable production, high tunnels, and grass-fed livestock.
- Belle Valley Grains: Demonstrating how organic practices translate to larger operations, this stop highlights organic grain farming and local milling processes.
- Cycle Farms: Bringing a unique urban agriculture perspective, this Spearfish farm focuses on sustainable soil biology, microgreens, and circular compost systems.
