The Great American Heartland Tour – 2026
Greetings! I’m officially announcing our tour!
The Great American Heartland Tour – 2026
In the summer leading into America’s historic Semiquincentennial—the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding—Scott Prentice, Executive Director of BioChecked™, embarks on an epic five-month odyssey across the heartland of the United States. Joined by his partner and assistant, Andrea West, this journey is more than a road trip; it’s a deep dive into the soul of American agriculture, a celebration of the land, and a personal pilgrimage to honor both the country’s heritage and Prentice’s own enduring contribution to one of its most iconic sites.
The tour’s primary focus is connecting with the people who feed the nation: existing BioChecked™ clients and prospective new partners in sustainable, clean food production. BioChecked™, under Prentice’s leadership, sets rigorous standards for non-GMO and non-glyphosate certification through ISO 17025-accredited lab testing, empowering farmers, ranchers, and producers to deliver transparent, health-conscious products. Over the coming months, Prentice and West will traverse farmlands and ranches from the Midwest to the Great Plains and beyond, examining soil health, crop vitality, and innovative regenerative practices. These hands-on visits aim to strengthen relationships, share insights on sustainability, and forge new collaborations that advance cleaner agriculture across the country.
The journey will unfold almost exclusively within the beautiful borders of the United States, emphasizing the vast diversity of its landscapes. A key highlight is an extended layover in the Black Hills of South Dakota, timed to coincide with the major celebrations surrounding the 250th anniversary of American independence. Mount Rushmore National Memorial will serve as a focal point, with special events—including anticipated fireworks and patriotic programming—drawing visitors from across the nation to commemorate this milestone. South Dakota is gearing up prominently for the occasion, with themed initiatives and gatherings that spotlight the state’s role in America’s story.
For Prentice, the return to Mount Rushmore carries deep personal significance. Thirty years ago, in 1996, he created and installed “The Stand”—a stunning 20’x40′ glass-etched mural depicting a majestic white buffalo.
This enduring masterpiece, crafted with artistry and reverence, has stood as a symbol of strength, unity, and respect for the land at the national memorial ever since. During the tour’s time in the Black Hills, Prentice plans to revisit this work, reflect on its legacy, and share its story amid the anniversary festivities.
To make the five-month adventure comfortable and enjoyable, the duo will travel in their new 2025 Entegra Coach Ethos 20T—a compact, efficient Class B motorhome built on the Ram ProMaster chassis.
With its thoughtful design featuring twin beds (convertible to king), a compact kitchen, bathroom, the Ethos promises a relaxed pace, allowing more time for meaningful stops and less stress on the road.
State and National Parks will be featured prominently along the route, thanks to Prentice’s VA pass granting access to these treasures. From iconic sites in the West to hidden gems in the heartland, the tour will include opportunities to explore America’s natural wonders while connecting with fellow veterans. These encounters aim to honor service, share stories, and build community among those who have defended the freedoms celebrated in 2026.
Ultimately, The Great American Heartland Tour is about renewal—renewing ties with the land, its stewards, and its people; rediscovering the beauty of the United States; and participating in a once-in-a-lifetime national moment. As Prentice and West set out, they carry a spirit of optimism, exploration, and commitment to a healthier, more sustainable future for American agriculture and look forward to many new relationships, breathtaking views, and unforgettable memories in 2026.
Scott’s pastime and passion of writing and creating music will be coming with them as he shares storytelling and songwriting to music. So, expect his Sonic Forge Production’s along the way!
To start things off enjoy this little melody:
Updates along the way can be followed here by clicking on our category The Great American Heartland Tour
We just got our van and prepping for a long road! #CODTV
“We Look Forward To Meeting You Out There!”