I have found through my research and reading that the Dakota Rural Action program has many things that I find to be beneficial in small scale agriculture and production. Dakota Rural Action provides much needed support to family agriculture, local farms, and small businesses. I feel that this is a good component of the program in that it does provide support for local farmers and businesses, but I would like to see more expansion and outreach to neighboring states/farms.
DRA collabrates on local and state levels to develop new ideas for clean, renewable energy resources. I feel that this is always a good idea as it not only looks at ways to conserve nonrenewable resources, but also puts focus on ways to cut back on air pollution. DRA is against large-scale factory farm housing procedures for livestock and other animals. I do not neceisarily agree with this because there is a very high need/demand for food and other animal products. I see nothing wrong with it as long as proper measures are being taken to care for animals properly and to use humane slaughter methods.
Currently, the DRA is fighting against the keystone XL pipeline project. Many farmers do not want the line to come through South Dakota communities because of the fear that there may be damage to their land and water. I can see vaild concerns from farmers and other activists, but I do think that this project would bring a lot of much needed jobs and economic gain to the area.
DRA has a food directory, which provides over 100 listings of farms and producers from around the state. This gives consumers a guide of where to buy fresh vegetable, meat, dairy, and grain products. I feel like this is a good program which strives to keep money local and to help support farmers within the state.
