SDSPA Accepting Applications for Specialty Crop Program Contractor

Oct 29, 2025

The South Dakota Specialty Crop Producers Association (sdSPA) invites highly motivated and qualified individuals to serve as an Independent Contractor to support critical educational outreach and program development efforts.

This vital contract position is responsible for executing the key goals of a three-year specialty crop grant, serving as the lead to coordinate specialized programs designed to educate South Dakota producers and manage the development of an essential Farmers Market Toolkit, ultimately driving the promotion and growth of specialty crops throughout the state.

The initial contract is for Year 1, with renewal for Years 2 and 3 contingent upon satisfactory performance and the achievement of stated deliverables.

Compensation and Commitment

Position Status: Independent Contractor
Year 1 Commitment: 216 hours
Compensation Rate: $37 per hour

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Video: Agriculture Secretary Rollins Speaks at American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim

One of the highlights at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, California, was an address by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. During her remarks, she thanked America’s farmers and ranchers and said the Trump Administration is fully aware that food security is national security.

She also acknowledged the challenging times in Farm Country with low commodity prices and high input costs and said that’s why the President stepped in to help with the recent Bridge Assistance Program.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck says that Farm Bureau members are appreciative of the help and looks forward to working with the American Farm Bureau Federation and its presence in Washington, DC to keep farmers and ranchers in business.

Secretary Rollins said the Trump Administration is also committed to helping ranchers build back America’s cattle herd while also providing more high-quality U.S. beef at the meat case for consumers.

And she also announced more assistance for specialty crop producers who only received a fraction of the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA).

It’s important to note that producers who qualify for Farmer Bridge Assistance can expect the Farm Service Agency to start issuing payments in late February. For more information, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center.