The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) is set to host its 18th annual Conservation in Action Tour, a two-day event that promises to deliver unique insights into sustainable farming practices. This year’s tour, taking place in Sioux Falls on May 6-7, is timed perfectly with the planting season, offering attendees a chance to witness firsthand how strategic management practices implemented in the fall and early spring can optimize crop production throughout the year.
The event kicks off with a banquet on May 6, featuring a keynote address from Retired Colonel Kim “KC” Campbell. Campbell, an A-10 Thunderbolt pilot, will share her extraordinary combat experiences to illustrate the power of courage in leadership and teamwork. Her story of navigating a harrowing mission where her aircraft was struck by enemy fire will provide a compelling narrative on how courage can transform leaders and teams in both everyday and high-stakes situations. This keynote sets the tone for a tour that emphasizes the importance of resilience and innovation in agriculture.
Following Campbell’s address, the banquet will feature several notable speakers. Angela Ehlers, Executive Director of the South Dakota Association of Conservation Districts, will discuss locally led conservation efforts. Doug Berven, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at POET, will provide a global vision for the biofuels industry. Additionally, Leif Fixen from The Nature Conservancy and Drew Kessler from Houston Engineering will introduce the Conservation Connector, a platform designed to link producers with local programs and support.
The May 7 program begins with an exclusive visit to the U.S. Geological Survey Earth Resources Observation and Science Center (EROS). This center manages the Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 satellites, which provide invaluable data on land use changes, drought management, invasive species, and severe weather events. Speakers Terry Sohl from USGS EROS and Dr. Heath Hagy from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will offer insights into how this data can be applied to conservation efforts.
The tour will then move to the farm of Ryan and Christine Larson in Minnehaha County. This stop will showcase how young farmers have transitioned from traditional systems to conservation management practices, with a focus on economics and efficiency. Speakers will include Tony Sunseri, South Dakota State Conservationist, who will discuss technical assistance and incentive programs, and Cristin Weber from Precision Risk Management, who will cover crop insurance for conservation management.
Lunch will feature a program on public initiatives to support habitats on private lands, with Kevin Robling, Secretary of South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, and Governor Larry Rhoden (invited) sharing their perspectives. The afternoon will include a panel discussion on the state of soil conservation, moderated by Mike Lessiter, President of Lessiter Media, with Brian Hefty of Hefty Seed and Brian Chatham of Ducks Unlimited as panelists.
The tour will conclude with a visit to the Stiefvater farm, winners of the American Soybean Association’s 2025 Conservation Legacy Award for the Upper Midwest Region. Kurt and Kathy Stiefvater will demonstrate their 25-year no-till system, which includes cover crops and cattle grazing. The day will end with a visit to Falls Park in downtown Sioux Falls, where attendees will learn about urban planning and agriculture production, followed by a closing cocktail reception and the CTIC Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
This year’s Conservation in Action Tour offers a comprehensive look at the latest in conservation technology and practices. From keynote speeches that inspire courage and innovation to on-farm demonstrations and industry insights, attendees will gain valuable knowledge and perspectives that can be applied to their own operations. The tour’s timing during the planting season provides a unique opportunity to see these practices in action, making it an invaluable experience for anyone involved in agriculture.
