Demand for locally grown and organic foods continues to rise in the U.S., but small farms in South Dakota face challenges in meeting the need and turning a profit.

Challenges due to population/geography: South Dakota's small and spread-out population makes it hard for some small farmers to reach enough consumers to remain profitable. But opportunities are growing through local food hubs in which farmers team up to service the grocery store and restaurant industries. 'Organic' farms on the decline: The term 'organic' is a regulated description of foods that must meet specific production standards at USDA certified farms. While the number of certified farms has fallen in recent years in South Dakota, many small farms operate with high standards yet without the official certification.