Career Opportunities for Young Producers
The following opportunities are available for young producers interested in learning regenerative agriculture practices while working. Some of these opportunities could result in the chance to take over an existing operation.
Farming/Ranching – Wessington Springs, SD
Kolousek Farms of Wessington Springs, SD, is looking for an individual to help with their farming/ranching operation. We are a diversified operation running approximately 600-700 mother cows, some yearlings and farming 800 acres. This person would ideally be a graduate of a college/tech school with schooling in grassland management or something similar. This position would put the right person in a role to make decisions – and implement those decisions – for Kolousek Farms regarding pasture management/rotation and how to better improve and utilize our pastures. We are deeply involved in soil health and grassland health, trying to make the transition to regenerative practices on our land. There is an opportunity to run cattle of your own and someday possibly manage the operation. Modern ranch-style house, farm vehicle and half of a beef per year provided. Wages and terms to be negotiated. Position to start employment in early 2022.
Learn more at: www.kolousekfarms.com
See videos at: https://youtu.be/eQdQorvxA5k and https://youtu.be/F8EQCPZ1GME
To learn more, contact Scott Kolousek (605) 730-1509.
Farming/Ranching – Herrick, SD
Jim and Claire Williams of Herrick, SD, raise corn, soybeans, winter wheat, mixed hay, and move yearling steers on grass. They started cross-fencing the grass and adding water in 1994. They haven’t tilled since 2004 and started using cover crops a few years later. They try to use a diverse system to improve their soil health, and their long term goal for the farm is to find a like-minded young family to take over. To find out if this is the right opportunity for you, contact Jim Williams at XXX-XXX-XXXX.
Farming/Ranching – Java, SD
Craig Rau of Java, SD, is looking for an individual to help with his farming/ranching operation. He uses no-till practices, follows small grains with cover crops, and uses cell grazing for cattle in his pastures. For the right individual, this is an opportunity to eventually run the operation. To learn more, contact Craig Rau at XXX-XXX-XXXX.
Registration Open for 2026 Soil Health Schools!
The Coalition will host two Soil Health Schools in 2026! The West River Soil Health School is set for June 24-25 near Caputa, SD, and the South Dakota Soil Health School is set for Sept. 15-17 near Twin Brooks and Marvin, SD. These events are designed for agricultural producers as well as anyone with an interest in learning how to manage soils for resiliency and profit. The agenda features classroom style presentations by producers and technical experts from across the state and region, as well as hands-on experiences in the field. Area producers will share their challenges and successes with various methods for improving soil health, to an average class size of 30-40. Registration is open, so check out our events page to learn more!
News & Events
Job Announcement: SDSHC Team Member
About Us: The South Dakota Soil Health Coalition led by farmers and ranchers, supports the advancement of land stewardship and profitability by nurturing life from the soil up. Founded in 2015, SDSHC is a non-profit membership organization. The South Dakota Soil...
Taking Action: Soil Health Conference to Outline Benefits of Regenerative Ag
By Stan Wise PIERRE, SD – For producer Blake Vince, running a successful farm comes down to acknowledging one simple fact. “I recognize the only thing, at the end of the day, that's totally 100 percent in my control is my expenses,” Vince said, “and by that, I mean...
SD Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Applicants
Sand County Foundation Applications are being accepted for the 2026 South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award®. The $10,000 award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife...