Since 1985, the Slim Buttes Agricultural Development program has enabled Oglala Lakota Sioux families across Pine Ridge Reservation to prepare and maintain gardens to augment their diets with fresh organic produce.
The 2.1 million acre Pine Ridge Reservation is classified as a “food desert” with only a handful of grocery stores, some with 20 miles between them. Eighty percent of the people live in poverty, and 40% of families experience food insecurity. Half of the population over age 40 is afflicted by diabetes. The need for accessible nutritious food is critical. To this end, the gardens program provides seedlings, seeds, advice, and tools in response to applications from local residents. Many became interested in gardening by listening to the project’s weekly spring radio show “Talking of Things Growing” on the Lakota radio station, KILI 90.1 FM. Hosted by project field director Milo Yellow Hair, the bilingual (Lakota and English) program delves into health, gardening methods, soil life, and the importance of fresh foods in daily diets.
The gardens program encourages self-reliance and care for the land — principles vital to indigenous life — and inspires social connection on Pine Ridge.
Plenty International has been a program partner since 1985, providing donations to purchase seeds, materials, and supplies, facilitating grants, enabling equipment repairs and purchases, and providing skilled volunteers, as well as our deep respect.
