Bear Butte Gardens: Regenerative Veggies, 30+ Years Strong

This video presentation by Michelle and Rick Grosek, owners of Bear Butte Gardens near Sturgis, South Dakota, delivers field-tested insights into regenerative organic vegetable production. The Groseks, stewards of their small family farm for over 30 years, share practical lessons drawn from natural ecosystems, emphasizing balanced farming techniques that mimic nature for enhanced soil health and crop resilience. Key methods include rethinking weeds as indicators of soil conditions rather than enemies—using them to diagnose nutrient imbalances, compaction, or pH issues and adjust practices accordingly. They collaborate closely with the local NRCS office and Elk Creek Soil Conservation District to implement rotational grazing, cover cropping, composting, and conservation tillage, all aligned with USDA organic certification standards since 2012. The farm prohibits synthetic fertilizers, pesticides (unless approved), GMOs, sewage sludge, ionizing radiation, antibiotics, and growth hormones, adhering strictly to the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances. Soil fertility is promoted through annual Organic System Plans (OSPs) detailing production inputs, pest management, record-keeping, and traceability. Bear Butte Gardens grows certified organic vegetables sold via an on-farm store (open Monday-Saturday, 9am-5pm), CSA shares, and Deadwood Farmers Market (Fridays 4-7pm, June-September). Community partnerships provide grower support, including farm tours, classes, seasonal events, a commercial kitchen rental, and products from over 60 local producers. Documented results highlight improved biodiversity, water quality protection, native habitat preservation, and sustainable yields. The presentation, hosted by the South Dakota Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) in partnership with NRCS at the South Dakota Producers Summit on February 13, 2026, in Rapid City, underscores regenerative integrity for specialty crops and niche markets. Practical takeaways include integrating biological filters like ponds for waste processing, observing native plants for soil insights, and fostering resilience through ecosystem-inspired vegetable production. This approach builds community-supported agriculture while demonstrating scalable regenerative techniques for small farms facing climate challenges.