Celebrating the Roots of Our Community: Milbank Ag Appreciation Day Set for March 18

Join the 2026 AG Appreciation Day on Wednesday, March 18, from 7:30 to 11 AM at the Grant County 4-H Complex in Milbank. Enjoy a pancake feed, participate in a raffle, explore vendor showcases, and attend informative talks on precision agriculture and climate trends. Proceeds support MACC Agriculture Scholarships. Don't miss this community event!

Northeast Radio SD News – Milbank, SD - Agriculture is more than just an industry in our region; it is the heartbeat of our economy and the foundation of our community. To honor the hardworking farmers, producers, and businesses that keep our local and national food systems strong, the Milbank Area Chamber of Commerce (MACC) Agriculture Committee is proud to host its annual Ag Appreciation Day.

The event will take place during National Ag Week on Wednesday, March 18, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Grant County 4-H Complex.

A Morning of Community and Innovation

The festivities kick off with a community pancake feed, served by Milbank FFA officers, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast of pancakes, eggs, sausage, and fruit, with a free-will donation collected to support the cause.

Beyond the breakfast table, attendees can explore the future of farming with several interactive features:

·         SDSUs Precision Agriculture Trailer: On-site demonstrations will include drones, sensors, a rainfall simulator, and planters equipped with variable rate applicators.

·         Vendor Booths: Local agriculture businesses and organizations will be present to showcase their services and support for the industry.

·         Drive Your Tractor to School Day: Milbank FFA students will add to the spirit of the day with this annual tradition.

Expert Insights on the Future of Farming

Following the meal, the event will transition to educational presentations featuring experts from South Dakota State University (SDSU):

·         9:15 a.m. – Precision Crop Agriculture: Ali Mirzakhani Nafchi, Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Precision Agriculture Specialist, will discuss the latest technological revolutions in the field.

·         10:15 a.m. – Weather and Climate Trends: Laura Edwards, SDSU Extension State Climatologist, will provide insights into regional weather patterns and long-term trends.

Investing in the Next Generation

Ag Appreciation Day isn’t just about celebrating today’s farmers; it’s about securing the industry’s future. Proceeds from the breakfast and an on-site raffle help fund the MACC Agricultural Scholarships. Every year, these proceeds allow the Chamber to award up to two $1,000 scholarships to Milbank High School seniors pursuing degrees in agriculture-related fields.

“Ag Appreciation Day is our way of bringing the community together to recognize the dedication that helps feed communities across the country,” says Jamie Henderson, Executive Director of the MACC.

For more information on the event or the Milbank Area Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.milbanksd.com/chamber.