What's New

For more South Dakota agricultural news, check out the Department of Agriculture's Ag News page.

06/26/2008

South Dakota Agritourism Conference

The South Dakota Agritourism conference will take place in Mitchell, July 15, on the campus of Mitchell Technical Institute.

“Agritourism is a vital part of the tourism industry in South Dakota,” said Richard Benda, secretary of the Department of Tourism and State Development. “This conference is an opportunity for business owners to learn and network with other people in the industry so that we can better serve the visitors to our great state.”

Featured speaker at the conference will be Jane Eckert, founder of Eckert AgriMarketing. Jane has dedicated herself to helping farmers, ranchers, and tourism professionals learn more about agritourism and how to make it profitable.

The conference schedule also includes information on marketing opportunities through the South Dakota Office of Tourism and regional tourism associations, a session on liability issues for business owners, and a panel discussion featuring local agritourism business owners.

Pre-registration is available for the conference until July 4 for $15, and late registration is available for $20 through the morning of the conference. The conference is sponsored cooperatively by the Corn Palace Convention and Visitors Bureau, Great Lakes of South Dakota Tourism Association, Southeast South Dakota Tourism Association, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and the South Dakota Office of Tourism.

Those interested in attending may download a registration form and view the conference schedule online at www.sdvisit.com. For more information contact Joey Hockett, South Dakota Office of Tourism at (605) 773-3301 or Joey.Hockett@state.sd.us.

The 2008 South Dakota Agritourism Conference is part of Goal 1 of the 2010 Initiative to double visitor spending in South Dakota.

06/19/2008

Funding Available for Specialty Crops in South Dakota

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture announces that grants are available for projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. Specialty crops are defined for this program as fruits, dried fruits, tree nuts, vegetables, and nursery crops (including floriculture).

"We are pleased to be able to offer these funds to South Dakota’s specialty crop industry. These funds can help advance and promote the specialty crops in the state,” said Secretary of Agriculture Bill Even.

The Department is responsible for administering and distributing the specialty crop grant. Grant dollars were made available through Congress' Specialty Crops Block Grant Program and can be used for a variety of projects including:

§         “Buy Local” campaigns

§         Promotion and increased consumption of specialty crops

§         Product market development and expansion, including value-added products

§         Enhancing trade for South Dakota grown products

§        Collaborative efforts or alliances that cut costs or raise revenues through distribution or marketing projects

§        Commercial application of new technologies, equipment or practices

"The primary intent of this funding is to promote innovative specialty crop projects that will help diversify South Dakota’s agricultural industry," said Jon Farris, Director of Agricultural Development.

Grants will be awarded on a competitive basis. Applications are due September 15, 2008 and results will be announced after review by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and by the United States Department of Agriculture. Awards will continue until all grant funds have been expended.

The guidelines, application form, and other specialty crop grant information is available from the South Dakota Department of Agriculture, 800-228-5254 (in state only) or 605-773-5436 or on the Department website at www.state.sd.us/doa. For a copy of the Specialty Crops Block Grant Program Application, visit: http://www.state.sd.us/doa/

06/12/2008

Funds Awarded for Specialty Crops

To promote the competitiveness of the specialty crop industry, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) has awarded Specialty Crop Block Grants to nine organizations within the state. The grant program defines specialty crops as fruits, dried fruits, tree nuts, vegetables, and nursery crops (including floriculture).

SDDA made grant awards for the following projects:

§         South Dakota State University for the identification of new Juneberry selections and established cultivars adapted to South Dakota.

§         Valiant Vineyards to show the power of education and demonstration in enhancing the commercial application of a “mobile processing plant” in remote areas of South Dakota.

§         Lawrence Diggs to find out if a market for locally grown specialty produce exists or could be developed in state funded and/or state controlled institutions within South Dakota, and, if so, what actions should be taken to expand those markets.

§         Twin Brooks Farmers Market for the establishment of a local “Farmer’s Market” in the town of Twin Brooks, South Dakota, operating throughout the late spring, summer, and early fall months.

§         Steve Polley for determining whether it is feasible to grow the quantity and quality of hops in Spearfish, South Dakota, to supply the needs of South Dakota craft brewers.

§         Dakota Rural Action to get the South Dakota Local Foods Directory into the hands of at least 7,500 food consumers statewide. This would encourage consumers to purchase and use more fresh, locally grown food products from South Dakota farmers and ranchers.

§         Dave Greenlee to provide improved web content for the South Dakota Winegrowers and the South Dakota Specialty Producers.

§         South Dakota State University to develop a knowledge base for a native fruit industry in South Dakota by establishing and evaluating native fruit trials.

§         South Dakota Winegrowers Association to increase the visibility of South Dakota wines and to develop a plan of operation for the South Dakota Wine Growers Association.

SDDA is responsible for administering and distributing the Specialty Crop Grant dollars made available through Congress' Specialty Crops Block Grant Program.

05/07/2008

Outdoor Enthusiasts Will Find Plenty to Do at SD Outdoor Expo

The SD Outdoor Expo is a perfect place for those looking to brush up on their hunting and fishing skills or learn new outdoor skills.

Archery experts from Scheels, 4-H Shooting Sports and K & B Archery will be on hand to give tips, tricks and pointers for those experienced and not so experienced archers.

Shooters can try their hand at the Cowboy Fast Draw put on by the Dakota Territory Rangers. They can also experience muzzleloading and period camps from the 1770-1840 periods. Another activity for hunters is tree stand safety by SD Bowhunters, Inc. All types of hunters will have the opportunity to climb into some tree stands to compare features and learn proper safety. Hunters can have fun, while honing their shooting skills with the LaserShot shooting simulators that both Pheasants Forever and Game, Fish and Parks will have on hand. And if that’s not enough, shooters can also head out to the Huron Gun Club for shotgun shooting.

Need a little help training your dog in the field? The North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association will provide versatile hunting dog demonstrations throughout the weekend. And for the retriever lovers, Luttrell Kennels will present both basic and advanced retriever training demos.

For outdoor enthusiasts more interested in water sports, they can try kayaking and canoeing in a man-made pond on the fairgrounds. Anglers can test the strength of different knots on a machine provided by the SD BASS Federation.

Current hunters and anglers looking to learn a new skill or activity will have plenty to choose from such as Dutch oven cooking, geocaching, birding, and outdoor games.

The SD Outdoor Expo is also the perfect opportunity to introduce a young person to the world of the outdoors. Bring along kids, grandkids or neighbor kids and help the next generation develop a love of the outdoors that will last a lifetime.

Major sponsors of the Outdoor Expo are: Wildlife Protection Inc, The Weatherby Foundation, Spader’s RV Center, S.D. Parks & Wildlife Foundation, S.D. Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, Scheels and S.D. B.A.S.S Federation.

The SD Outdoor Expo is FREE to all attendees. Anyone who is currently involved in the outdoors or would like to learn more is invited to attend the first S.D. Outdoor Expo, May 17-18. Hours of the event are: Saturday, May 17, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm and Sunday, May 18, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.  It is sure to be a great experience, no matter what your outdoor skill level may be. For more information, please call the S.D. State Fair office at (605) 353-7340 or log onto www.sdoutdoorexpo.com.

04/28/2008

INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS FEATURED AT 2008 U.S. FOOD EXPORT SHOWCASE

Innovative new products featured at the 2008 U.S. Food Export Showcase represent the latest in food tastes and trends and are a barometer against which to measure consumer choices in the marketplace.

The 2008 showcase, which runs from April 27 to 29 in Chicago, offers international and domestic food buyers a coast-to-coast representation of food produced across America.  State departments of agriculture and regional trade groups sponsor pavilions where local food manufacturers exhibit items in virtually every product category.

This year, food manufacturers have tuned in to consumer interest in healthy, environmentally sound and flavorful foods:
          
     Royal Hawaiian Honey is touting its product as the first certified carbon-neutral food. The company has offset its carbon footprint by investing in carbon-reducing projects such as renewable energy, energy efficiency and reforestation. Royal Hawaiian Honey is distributed by Tropical Traders Specialty Foods (Booth 403).

     Mama Dida’s (Booth 614) is satisfying salsa lovers with products that have a lemon juice base for a smoother flavor while allowing varying degrees of heat.  The all-natural salsas are known for their distinctive sweet and spicy flavors and chunks of fresh vegetables.  Since no water is added, the salsas have an extremely thick consistency that stands up well to pairing with meat, fish, soups, eggs and more.

     Sumseeds of Dakota Valley Products (Booth 621) are “energized for today’s motivated market!”  The premium roasted sunflower seeds are infused with energy ingredients found in popular energy-type sodas – caffeine, taurine, lysine and ginseng.  The seeds not only pack an energy punch, they are an excellent source of vitamin E and protein.  And, they come in four great flavors – original, honey barbeque, dill pickle, and salt and pepper.     

     New from BlackMustard, Inc. (Booth 104) is a dry rub with the flavors of their award-winning BlackMustard Barbecue Slather. This mustard-style barbecue sauce starts off sweet and ends with a little bit of heat, making it perfect for chicken and pork.

     Bella Diva’s (Booth 302) specialty butters will add flavor without the guilt to your favorite foods.  The company has created Premium Raw Vegan Butters for the health-conscience.  This vegan butter is churned to perfection for a healthy gourmet butter.  This unique product is new to the organic world.  Bella Diva’s company history is as unique as their butter.  Be sure to ask how this specialty food got its start!

     HoneyTree Inc. (Booth 909) has returned to USFES with brand new products to tempt the tastebuds.  This year, this innovative company is highlighting the biggest improvement to honey in the last 10,000 years!  HoneyGel is the all-natural honey that stays put.  Squeeze it right on sandwiches, toast or biscuit and there is no need for a spoon or knife.  HoneyGel does not run or make a mess.  This unique honey also comes in strawberry.

     Chobani (Booth 706) is giving consumers a healthy alternative to traditional yogurt.  This yummy yogurt is an all-natural Greek yogurt and is packed with protein.  Chobani offers a richer, smoother texture and an unforgettable, full-bodied taste.  Try one of their six varieties to find out which is your favorite.

     Frutzzo (Booth 812) specializes in organic super juices--pomegranate has never tasted so good. Each bottle is 100 percent organic and is exceptionally high in antioxidants.  Frutzzo pomegranate super juice will quench your thirst without preservatives, sugars or added colors.  It is all the enjoyment without any of the guilt!

The U.S. Food Export Showcase is sponsored by the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture.  It is presented under the umbrella of the Global Food & Style Expo 2008, which is comprised of three distinct events: the U.S. Food Export Showcase; All Things Organic; and the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade’s (NASFT) Spring Fancy Food Show.

This year’s show brings together more than 1,000 exhibitors and more than 56,000 of the world’s most innovative, trend-setting food and lifestyle products.  It also offers more than 60 workshops, seminars, product tasting, culinary demonstrations, tours and networking events.

The 2008 Global Food & Style Expo is comprised of three distinct events: NASDA’s U.S. Food Export Showcase, All Things Organic, and National Association for the Specialty Food Trade’s (NASFT) Spring Fancy Food Show.  This year’s show, April 27-29 in Chicago, brings together more than 1,000 exhibitors and over 56,000 of the world’s most innovative, trend-setting food and lifestyle products.  It also offers more than 60 workshops, seminars, product tasting, culinary demonstrations, tours and networking events.

04/22/2008

May Is Beef Month

Whether it’s a thick, juicy steak or a hamburger with all the fixings, fired on the grill, South Dakotans love their beef.

“The beef industry plays a crucial role in South Dakota’s economy,” said Secretary of Agriculture Bill Even. “South Dakota’s almost 17,000 cattle producers generate $1.87 billion in total direct economic activity to our state’s economy. From cattle producers, feed manufacturers, equipment dealers and food marketers, thousands of South Dakotans play a role in bringing quality beef to the plates of discriminating consumers.”

And with the coming season of outdoor activities and backyard barbecues, May has been declared “Beef Month” in South Dakota by Governor Mike Rounds. This unique celebration began more than 40 years ago and recognizes one of South Dakota’s largest economic sectors. It also honors the dedicated men and women who produce the high quality, nutritious beef that South Dakota is known for around the world.

“There is no doubt that one of South Dakota’s greatest assets is its beef industry,” said Barry Jennings, Executive Director of the South Dakota Beef Industry Council. “South Dakota is unique among beef producing states. With abundant feed, green pastures, clean water and superior genetics, South Dakota is one of the few states with all the resources necessary to grow high quality cattle.”

"Agriculture is the largest contributor to the South Dakota economy and cattle are the largest segment of South Dakota's ag industry,” said Scott Jones, President of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association. “We appreciate Governor Rounds' recognition of the importance of the cattle and beef industries in South Dakota."

“Let your local cattle producers know they are appreciated by enjoying a juicy hamburger or a delicious steak today,” said Even.

The official proclamation can be viewed at: http://www.state.sd.us/doa/Ag%20Policy/press/

04/01/2008

South Dakota wine industry is out of the bottle

Since 1997, South Dakota wineries have produced over 180 thousand gallons of wine.

“The continued growth of South Dakota’s wine industry is another example of value-added agriculture at work,” said Secretary of Agriculture Bill Even. “This trend creates greater opportunities for South Dakota communities.”

South Dakota’s 2008 annual wine production totals are projected to increase to over fifty thousand gallons; this far surpasses the 230 gallons produced in 1997. This means more jobs in agriculture for producing grapes, other fruits, and honey. Wineries themselves also provide employment and development opportunities and contribute up to ten dollars of value for every one dollar of value in fruit at the farm gate.

Wine consumption continues to grow following evidence to support the health benefits of modest wine consumption. Clare Hasler, PhD, MBA, of the Robert Mondavi Institute of Wine and Food Sciences notes, “There is absolutely no doubt that moderate alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and may also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, dementia, bone disease and even certain types of cancer.” Dr. Hasler attributes this observation to the antioxidants found in wine, particularly those in red wine.

Wine also generates excise tax revenue. Ninety-three cents is collected for every gallon of wine produced. Some wineries have begun producing high alcohol versions that can add more than two dollars per gallon to state revenues. The South Dakota Department of Revenue currently has fifteen licensed wineries and collects almost $45,000 annually in taxes.

With their agricultural roots, most wineries also offer a new venue for agritourism. Richard Benda, Secretary of Tourism and State Development, acknowledges this contribution. "The wine industry in South Dakota has seen tremendous growth during the last several years. This industry has helped diversify our economy in terms of economic development, as well as tourism.”

New legislation enacted this year will also help the industry to expand and allow state wineries better access to markets and more education opportunities. “We are pleased that the legislators have passed laws to make it easier for these companies to grow and prosper in our state," said Benda.

View a listing of SD Wineries here.

05/21/2007

PRIMETIME Selling Opportunities!

The 2006 South Dakota State Fair attracted more than 26,000 visitors every day and was a great success! One of the most successful events at last year’s fair was the Dakota Flavor Marketplace – the building was packed! This year, we again want to showcase and promote some of South Dakota’s finest businesses and products.

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and the State Fair are planning a Dakota Flavor Marketplace expo for the 2007 Fair, scheduled for August 30 – September 3, 2007. We will again hold this event in the Dakota Marketplace Building.

We are designating different days to showcase and highlight different types of products. This allows similar businesses to come together and exhibit. This does not mean other types of vendors will not be exhibiting and showing on those days as some choose to stay all week. These are just the days when fairgoers know the emphasis is on certain items. Vendors can choose the day that best fits their needs. We have designated the following days:

●  Friday, August 31 – Art Marketplace (ex. Jewelry, Pottery, Wood Carving)

●  Saturday and Sunday, September 1-2 – Dakota Flavor Marketplace (ex. Specialty Crops, Food Products, Producers, Processors)

●  Monday, September 3 – Culture/Heritage Marketplace (ex. Agri-tourism, Farmers Markets, Hutterite Colonies, Native American companies)

The Vendor Packet for all State Fair vendors is available on our website at www.sdstatefair.com. We highly recommend that you look at this, as rules for all vendors are included. There are a few exceptions for DFMP vendors. First, you will receive your vendor packet in the mail prior to the fair, but you will still be required to check in prior to setting up (page 3). Second, DFMP vendor spaces will not be sold on a guarantee basis (page 11). Third, the electrical fee is waived for DFMP vendors (page 15).

Booths (10’ x 8’) will cost $80 for one day or $300 for all five days. Space is limited and will be allocated on a FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE basis. Liability insurance is required for ALL fair vendors. Please see the vendor packet for more information. You must return proof of insurance to the fair office before you will be allowed to set up.

Please take a few minutes to fill out the enclosed registration form. It will help us to plan a wonderful Dakota Flavor Marketplace event at the Fair! Please return all completed registration forms by June 15, 2007 to Joni Kiple, South Dakota State Fair, 890 Third St SW, Huron, SD 57350-1275. 

We look forward to partnering with you at the Fair and showcasing the wonderful products that you make. If you have any questions, please call me at 605.626.3272 or email me at alison.kiesz@state.sd.us.
 

04/05/2007

USDA to Announce Value-Added Grant Deadline Soon

The U.S. Department of Agriculture will soon announce the deadline to apply for the Value Added Producer Grants. Once the USDA sends out the Notice of Solicitation of Applications the turn around is only 30 days from the notice.

The Center for Rural Affairs suggests those interested in applying prepare ahead of the announcement by visiting www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/vadg.htm and walking through the "Applicants" section to decide whether they meet the qualifications.

The Value-Added Producer Grant Program awards grants to agricultural producers, businesses owned by a majority of agricultural producers, and organizations representing agricultural producers for business planning or working capital expenses associated with marketing a value-added agricultural product. Agricultural producers include farmers, ranchers, loggers, agricultural harvesters and fishermen that engage in the production or harvesting of an agricultural commodity.

The program was created to help producers expand their customer base for the products or commodities that they produce. This results in a greater portion of the revenues derived from the value-added activity being made available to the producer of the product.

08/18/2005

Low-Interest Financing: The South Dakota Department of Agriculture has a low-interest direct loan program available for South Dakota Businesses that process and/or market an agricultural commodity. Whether you make wine, jelly, feed, or own a nursery, the Value Added Agribusiness Relending Program can assist you in expanding your facility, equipment purchases, start up costs or working capital, and in some cases refinancing. The maximum loan amount is 50% of the total project or $150,000 whichever is less. Contact  the SD Department of Agriculture today to discuss ways this program can benefit you!  Call the SDDA at 605.773.5436. More information can also be obtained from the department's website at www.state.sd.us/doa/ag_dev/loan.

07/14/2004

Our new site design is on its way!  The look will be different, but Dakota Flavor will still allow consumers to find their favorite South Dakota products easily from their home computer.