PHILIP, S.D. – August 6, 2025 – South Dakota beef producers interested in transitioning to organic practices are invited to a hands-on field day hosted by the South Dakota Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) on Friday, August 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. MDT near Philip, South Dakota.
The free event will provide practical insight into organic beef production, addressing certification hurdles, nutrition management, feed sourcing, and marketing challenges. Attendees will gain firsthand knowledge through peer-to-peer learning opportunities and a tour of a local ranch navigating the shift to USDA organic certification.
Local rancher Carl Poss will lead the ranch tour, sharing his family’s journey toward organic certification and the operational changes they are implementing to meet USDA standards.
Participants will also hear from Dr. Angela Jackson, SDSPA Organic Ag Advisor and regenerative organic farmer, who developed a branded organic meat program for local retailers. Jackson will offer strategies and lessons learned from creating a market-ready product from the ground up.
Joining the event is Pat Guptill, a Quinn, S.D. rancher and former SD Grasslands Coalition board member, who raises cattle on herbicide- and pesticide-free pastures. Guptill will share his experience during a pasture walk and discussion.
“This event is about honest conversations and real experiences from producers who are doing the work,” said SDSPA organizers. “Whether you’re just curious or already on the path to organic certification, this is a valuable opportunity to learn and connect.”
Pre-registration is required at https://sdspecialtyproducers.org/p/16590. While beverages will be provided, attendees should bring their own lunch to enjoy during the open networking session.
The event is supported by the USDA’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) under a Conservation Collaboration Cooperative Agreement. It is co-hosted by the Northern Plains Sustainable Agriculture Society.
SDSPA will continue supporting regenerative and organic producers with additional programming this season. On September 30, the organization will host a networking event in Harrisburg, S.D., to connect producers and buyers of organic and regenerative ingredients. A full list of events can be found at https://sdspecialtyproducers.org/events/.
