New regenerative organic agriculture program to support South Dakota farmers

The OTI-RAPP program is led by Dr. Angela K. Jackson, who will advise and support producers interested in organic regenerative ag across the state through education, technical assistance, and outreach opportunities.

The new Organic Transition Initiative–Regenerative Agriculture Pathway Program (OTI-RAPP), aims to equip South Dakota farmers with the knowledge and skills to adopt sustainable agricultural practices.

S.D. Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) has entered into a Conservation Collaborative Cooperative Agreement (CCCA) with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to support the initiative and promote regenerative organic practices (ROP) within the state.

By adopting ROP, producers can improve soil health, reduce erosion, and enhance water quality. These practices can also lead to increased biodiversity, improved crop yields, and greater resilience to climate change. SDSPA will provide hands-on technical assistance, educational programs, and resources to help producers implement ROP on their operations.

This collaborative agreement will benefit a wide range of producers, including those specializing in specialty crops, niche markets, and traditional farming practices. By supporting farmers in their transition to regenerative organic practices, SDSPA is helping to build a more sustainable future for the state.

“At the heart of regenerative organic practices lie soil regeneration, organic standards, and ethical stewardship—principles that not only enhance biodiversity and strengthen ecosystems but also empower rural communities with sustainable, resilient food systems and farms,” says Dr. Angela K. Jackson, SDSPA Organic Ag Advisor.

The OTI-RAPP program is led by Dr. Jackson. She will advise and support producers interested in organic regenerative ag across the state through education, technical assistance, and outreach opportunities.

Jackson has been active in South Dakota organic food and feed production for many years as an inspector/auditor, educator, and a producer. Since 2006, she has been the owner/operator of PrairieSun Organics, a family farm located in Clay County, S.D. PrairieSun Organics is certified to the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) and Regenerative Organic Certified^®. Along with her husband, they raise row crops for feed, hay, vegetables, and aronia berries, laying hens for eggs, and broiler chickens for meat, and process their chickens on site.

Jackson is available to meet with producers on-site in person or virtually. Agricultural operators in South Dakota can contact the SDSPA Organic Ag Advisor for assistance by emailing sdspa.organic@gmail.com or by calling 605-624-1966.

Organic & Non-GMO Insights December 2024