Lakota Land Systems (LLS), formerly known as the Food Sovereignty Initiative, embodies a comprehensive approach grounded in Lakota Land Systems Thinking (LLST). This framework integrates every aspect of its operations with a deep commitment to Lakota perspectives and ecological stewardship, ensuring that practices not only nurture the land but also strengthen community ties through cultural relevance and sustainability.

LLS champions initiatives such as small-scale no-till market gardening, which cultivates both conventional and traditional Lakota plants. This practice upholds the LLST principles of minimal soil disturbance and biodiversity enhancement, crucial for maintaining soil health and ecological balance. Alongside this, LLS operates a regenerative composting program that effectively recycles on-site carbon sources and community food waste, transforming them into valuable compost to enrich the soil naturally and reduce environmental impact.

A pivotal element of LLS is its innovative use of a geothermal greenhouse, which supports year-round growth and propagation of a diverse plant array. This facility is essential for extending the growing seasons and reinforcing food security under the harsh climatic conditions typical of the region, all while utilizing sustainable energy solutions. Additionally, the bison restoration project, spread across 40,000 acres near the Badlands National Park, highlights LLS’s commitment to wildlife conservation as an integral part of land and cultural restoration, reflecting the LLST ethos of coexistence with native species and landscapes.

Furthermore, LLS is dedicated to preserving and enhancing traditional Lakota food storage methods and food systems, which are vital for sustaining long-term food sovereignty and security. This focus ensures the resilience of the community, upholding the Lakota way of life through practical and educational means. Overall, LLS, through its adherence to LLST, offers a model of how indigenous-led, culturally-centered regenerative agriculture can successfully promote sustainable land management while fostering the ecological and cultural integrity of the Lakota community.