FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

John Lockie, R-CALF USA Executive Director will address cattle producers across the state during a string of South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Area Membership Meetings this October. Lockie will cover issues at the forefront of the cattle industry, including the Canadian border, Japan’s latest case of BSE and market competition.

"The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association is a key player in achieving R-CALF’s goal of restoring competition to the cattle market. Since the very first R-CALF meeting their passion for the cattle industry has been obvious," Lockie said. "Time and again, South Dakotan’s support for R-CALF has amazed me. I look forward to these area meetings as a chance to visit with ranchers from one of the states that has been the most instrumental in making R-CALF the successful organization that we are."

Rick Fox, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Vice President and Membership Chairman says that R-CALF and the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association work hand in hand on a number of issues, including trade, marketing and competition.

"We encourage local ranchers to mark the dates of these area meetings on their calendars, and make a point to be there," Fox said. "Whether you’re a member of the Stockgrowers or not, we hope you’ll spend the evening learning about issues that affect the bottom line of your business - your ranch. The Stockgrowers are a pretty unique group - we tend to business and have fun while we’re doing it."

If you’re curious about the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association and R-CALF, or have been a member for years, make plans to attend an upcoming area membership meeting of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association. The Stockgrowers plan to host three area meetings during October. More area meetings will follow this fall.

October meeting schedule:

Oct. 16 - Belle Fourche, S.D.

American West Steakhouse, 6:30 p.m., free supper (USA burger).

Oct. 21 - Union Center, S.D.

Bull Creek Café, 6:30 p.m., free supper.

Oct. 22 - Buffalo Gap, S.D.

Meeting site Methodist Church Basement, 7:00 p.m., pie and ice cream.

For more information contact Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 9, 2003

For more information contact:

Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or carrie.sdsga@midconetwork.com

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

Legislative Committee says "Yes" to Brand Inspection Fee Increase

A committee of South Dakota legislators voted unanimously to approve a 10-cent increase in brand inspection fees, in an effort to help defray expected losses to the program this year.

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association President Ken Knuppe, Buffalo Gap, S.D., says that the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association, who contracts with the S.D. Brand Board to facilitate the brand inspection program will likely still lose money this year.

"Our finance committee predicts that brand inspection will cost us about 73¢ per head this year. Although the fee will soon be 70¢, we still expect to show a loss," Knuppe said. "But the increase will make the deficit more manageable."

Knuppe said the Stockgrowers appreciate the Legislative Rules Review Committee for their sensible attitudes. "One of the committee members said he could see that if the increase didn’t go into effect now, we would probably be looking at 20¢ soon."

"We first talked to the Brand Board, earlier this summer, and they approved our recommendation 4-1. They understand the ups and downs in cattle numbers due to the weather, and could see a disaster coming if we didn’t get an increase," Knuppe said. "The salebarns are showing reduced numbers, and predict even lower numbers throughout their fall runs, as a result of last year’s drought. Everyone in the cattle business knows that cattle numbers are way down this year."

Upon approval by the Brand Board, their next step was to meet with the Legislative Rules Review Committee, said Knuppe. The Stockgrowers showed the committee their budget and explained the predicted losses for the coming year. "The committee had some good questions, and we explained the situation to them in layman’s terms. When the legislators asked their auditor some questions, he used different terminology than us, and everyone ended up a little confused, so the rules committee rightfully asked for more information."

Gary Hoscheid, audit manager for the Department of Legislative Audit, said "The misinterpretations of budget terms resulted in confusion, but those differences in numbers did not indicate any money was unaccounted for."

The Stockgrowers met with Hoscheid, the Brand Board as well as the Brand Board’s attorney, following the Rules meeting. The Stockgrowers’ legal counsel and accountant presented information in regard to the Stockgrowers’ need for the increase, as well as the legality of their contract with the Brand Board.

"We all agreed, under advice from our attorneys that day, that our finances were in order and our actions in carrying out the brand inspection contract were well within the authority of the law," said Carrie Longwood, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Executive Director.

When the Stockgrowers returned to the Legislative Rules Review Committee October 6, 2003, the committee appeared appreciative of their opportunity for an in-depth discussion with the Stockgrowers attorney and accountant.

"They all voted in support of our increase, and could see that it was needed," said Longwood. "Both attorneys on the rules committee voiced their opinions that the Stockgrowers are carrying out the contract and handling their finances in the manner required by law."

The Stockgrowers expect the new fee to go into effect November 1, 2003, which is in the midst of the brand inspectors’ busiest season, says Jim Reed, Belle Fourche, S.D., South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Chief Brand Inspector.

"We understand that producers have questions about the program. We hope they will direct their questions to us, in order to obtain factual information," said Longwood.

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association carries out the S.D. Ownership Inspection Program under contract with the S.D. Brand Board. Any cattle, horses or mules changing ownership or traveling outside of the brand area require inspection. The South Dakota brand area consists of the 22 South Dakota counties West of the Missouri River.

Please direct any questions regarding brand inspection, finances or the brand laws, to Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or Jim Reed at 605-343-2660.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 24, 2003

For More Information Contact:

Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or carrie.sdsga@midconetwork.com

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

Stockgrowers Complete Successful Annual Convention

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association annual convention, held September 17-20, 2003 in Rapid City, S.D. drew a crowd of more than 250 cattle producers from across the state to hear speakers, set new policy and elect officers for the upcoming year.

Derry Brownfield, who spoke on Thursday evening, enlightened the crowd on a variety of ag issues, keeping his tone light with a mixture of humor and facts.

John Lockie, R-CALF USA Executive Director, who spoke during the Friday noon luncheon was honored by the Stockgrowers for his commitment to the cattle industry. Governor Rounds declared Lockie a "Citizen for a Day" on September 19, 2003 in recognition of the time Lockie has spent in the state, working to benefit the cattle industry.

Friday evening’s featured speaker, G.B. Oliver, Paragon Foundation, Alamogordo, N.Mex., was impressed by the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association. "I speak to cattle groups across the nation, and this group is truly one of the best," he said. "I don’t know what it is that makes this group stand out from the others - your energy, your positive outlook, or your camaraderie, or maybe it’s a combination of the three, but whatever it is, you need to bottle it and sell it."

In a unanimous decision by the membership, Ken Knuppe, Buffalo Gap, S.D., was elected as the group’s new President, then Rick Fox, Hermosa was chosen unanimously to serve as the Vice President.

"I’ve been real involved in the Stockgrowers as the Vice President for over two years, and I’m excited to have the chance to serve as the President of this issues-driven organization," said Knuppe. "My position as President will be one of service to the members. This group is truly run by the members, and as an officer, I am dedicated to ensuring that our members’ voices are heard and understood." Knuppe continued, "I’m honored to be chosen as President of this group of ranchers that I have come to respect immensely in the past couple of years."

Fox, the new Vice President, says that the Stockgrowers’ dedication to independent cattle producers has made them popular among cattle folks. "A lot of ranchers say that they really appreciate what we’re doing to represent them on marketing and environmental issues. They say they don’t have the time to run to Pierre or Washington every time an issue pops up; they appreciate the fact that they can rely on the Stockgrowers and R-CALF to represent their interests on a day-to-day basis," said Fox.

That dedication to the industry is what drew and retained the large crowd to the convention, says Carrie Longwood, Executive Director of the Stockgrowers. "We had a great lineup of speakers, and that really attracted folks, but lots of people said they stayed longer then they had planned, because they gained an interest in the issues that the committees and Board were dealing with."

The Stockgrowers honored outgoing President Bill Hutchinson, White River, S.D., on Friday evening with a slide show and a pair of spurs carrying Hutchinson’s brand. "I’ve enjoyed every minute I’ve spent with the Stockgrowers, and I want to thank you for your efforts and congratulate you on your accomplishments," said Hutchinson. "I’m proud to be affiliated with such a fine group."

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Board of Directors decided to meet in Brookings, S.D. for their December Quarterly meeting.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 24, 2003

For More Information Contact:

Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or carrie.sdsga@midconetwork.com

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

Stockgrowers Honor Brand Inspectors

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association recognized six of their employees on September 19, 2003 for the dedication and service they’ve shown to the Brand Inspection Program.

During the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Annual Convention Awards Banquet held in Rapid City, S.D., Chief Brand Inspector Jim Reed, Belle Fourche, S.D., presented five of the honorees with a belt buckle inscribed with their respective brands.

Scott Hicks, Martin, S.D., Rayford Anderson, Buffalo, S.D., Raymond Abbey, Carter, S.D., and Clay Claymore, Gettysburg, S.D., each walked across the stage Friday evening to accept their buckles as Reed shared with the crowd some personal stories and memories of each inspector.

"These inspectors work hard year in and year out, and we sure appreciate their commitment to this program," said Reed. "The Brand Inspection Program is successful because of good inspectors like these guys. We couldn’t do it without them, and we wanted them to know how grateful we are to them."

The Brand Inspection Program benefits all brand owners, said Reed. "We returned 714 head of strays just this last year. That’s a direct benefit to cattle producers, as a result of careful, conscientious inspectors like those we’re honoring tonight."

Reed surprised his Administrative Assistant, Cathy Banning, Rapid City, S.D., by recognizing her for 13 years of dedication to the program. "Most of you know Cathy’s voice from the telephone, but tonight you’ll have a chance to personally thank her for her hard work throughout the years. She’s been a huge asset to the program and to the Stockgrowers."

Reed also surprised outgoing South Dakota Stockgrowers Association President Bill Hutchinson, White River, S.D., with a belt buckle in recognition of his dedication to the brand program, and as his work as a local brand inspector.

"Having a brand inspector as our president was helpful to the association," said Reed. "Billy understands the ins and outs of the brand inspection program and spent a lot of his time as President dealing with brand issues."

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 26, 2003

For more information contact Carrie Longwood at:

605-342-0429 or carrie.sdsga@midconetwork.com

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers say Bonilla Amendment is Irresponsible

The House Appropriations Committee voted this morning to approve the FY 2004 Ag Appropriations Bill, which includes a provision to cut funding for Country of Origin Labeling of meat, says Carrie Longwood, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Executive Director.

"This effort to kill Country of Origin Labeling for meat, first by the Ag Subcommittee and now by the full House Appropriations Committee is shockingly irresponsible," says South Dakota Stockgrowers Association President Bill Hutchinson, White River, S.D.

"Congress passed mandatory Country of Origin Labeling in last year’s farm bill - more than 100 agricultural and consumer organizations from across the country supported the action." Hutchinson continues, "Now, Congressman Bonilla from Texas, backed by just a few organizations, is on a rampage to kill the bill. The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association is appalled by the action - even Japan and South Korea are now asking the U.S. for Country of Origin Labeling because they want to know that the beef they buy from us was derived here."

"Our state veterinarian, Dr. Sam Holland told us less than a month ago that he believes Country of Origin Labeling is needed. He urged us to keep working toward efficient and effective rules," Hutchinson said. "Dr. Holland says he’s familiar with current transportation guidelines across international borders, and that mandatory Country of Origin Labeling can be simple and inexpensive."

Longwood says South Dakota Stockgrowers Association members continue to make contacts with members of Congress to express their strong support for Country of Origin Labeling. "The voices of consumers and producers are loud and clear. Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling of fruits, vegetables, red meat, fish and peanuts is the law of the land. We refuse to allow a few large corporations with deep pockets to dictate the future of the livestock industry. We will continue working to ensure that COOL is implemented and enforced."

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association urge concerned producers and consumers to contact their members of Congress and all members of the of the House of Representatives at 202-224-3121 to express support for mandatory Country of Origin Labeling of meat.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 19, 2003

For more information contact Carrie Longwood at

605-342-0429 or carrie.sdsga@midconetwork.com

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Commend Janklow for COOL Support

All three of South Dakota’s congressional delegates agree: mandatory Country of Origin Labeling is needed.

According to Carrie Longwood, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Executive Director, Congressman Janklow (R-SD) along with Congressman Pomeroy (D-ND), Congresswoman Bono (R-CA) and Congresswoman Hooley (D-OR) sent a letter on Tuesday to the Chairman and Ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee, asking them to oppose the attempt to remove funding for the Country of Origin Labeling law.

Longwood said South Dakota Senators Johnson (D-SD) and Daschle (D-SD) continually promote Country of Origin Labeling as well.

"We’re so excited to see our senators and our representative work in tandem on this truly bipartisan issue," said Longwood. "Country of Origin Labeling is critical to the producers of South Dakota. We praise Representative Janklow for recognizing the importance and timeliness of the issue, and taking quick action."

The House Appropriations Committee is expected to vote on the Fiscal Year 2004 Agricultural Appropriations bill as early as Monday, June 21, 2003, said Longwood. The current form of the bill includes a measure to eliminate funding for Country of Origin Labeling for meat. The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association, along with their national organization, R-CALF USA and numerous other groups are working to stop the underhanded effort to kill Country of Origin Labeling.

The Stockgrowers urge producers to call Bill Young, Chairman, House Appropriations Committee (202-225-5961) and Committee Ranking Member David Obey (202-225-3365) to express opposition to the effort to defund Country of Origin Labeling.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 19, 2003

For more information contact Carrie Longwood

at 605-342-0429 or carrie.sdsga@midconetwork.com

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Fight Attempt to Stop COOL

Members of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association are making contact with the U.S. House Appropriations Committee to express their opposition to a direct attempt to undermine American consumers and livestock producers.

"Even though Congress voted to include Country of Origin Labeling, an issue strongly supported by consumer groups and farm organizations including the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association, in last year’s farm bill, Representative Henry Bonilla (R-TX) has now made a concerted effort to slash funding for the program," says South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Executive Director Carrie Longwood.

She continues, "The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association, along with our national organization, R-CALF USA, doesn’t intend to let this underhanded approach succeed. We’ve been calling the members of the appropriations committee to explain the situation to them. We hope every cattle producer will make a phone call to the chairman and ranking member of the committee to express their distress and opposition to Bonilla’s efforts to kill COOL."

According to the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association President, Bill Hutchinson, Country of Origin Labeling has long been an important issue to the group. "We know we need Country of Origin Labeling. We need to have the ability to differentiate U.S. born, raised and slaughtered beef from foreign product. This has become even more important after Canada’s discovery of BSE."

Hutchinson goes on to say that foreign purchasers of U.S. beef have demanded proof of origin as well. "South Korea and Japan, two of our largest export customers say they want the beef they purchase to be verified born, raised and slaughtered here in the United States. As cattle producers, we’ve been told for years that we need to respond to consumer demand. Fast, effective implementation of Country of Origin Labeling is clearly the most appropriate response in this case."

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 13, 2003

For more information contact:

Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or

carrie.sdsga@midconetwork.com

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

SD Stockgrowers Hold June Quarterly Meeting

Petition to Delist Prairie Dog will be Done Soon

Leo McDonnell, Columbus, Mont., R-CALF USA President, spoke to a standing room only crowd in the Chances R Steakhouse in Faith, S.D., following a full day of South Dakota Stockgrowers Association committee meetings on June 10, 2003.

The meetings began Tuesday morning at the Prairie Vista Inn, where the Wildlife Management Committee heard from Biologist Jon Haufler via speakerphone. Haufler reported that the petition to remove the prairie dog from the "warranted but precluded" list should be completed by the end of June. The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association contacted Haufler earlier this spring to request the petition.

While the Brand & Theft Committee was meeting in the Community Legion Hall, the Ag & Natural Resources Committee gathered in the Prairie Vista Inn to hear speaker Jeanie Votava, S.D. Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources. Votava presented the rules and regulations associated with Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations, or CAFOs.

The entire group joined together in the Community Legion Hall for lunch followed by speaker Dr. Sam Holland, S.D. State Veterinarian. Dr. Holland updated the Stockgrowers on a number of animal health issues, including West Nile Virus, Tuberculosis and BSE. He told the Stockgrowers that he believes Country of Origin Labeling is "feasible and workable." He went on to say, "Existing rules and regulations used by customs and health officials can be utilized in the implementation of

the Country of Origin Labeling law. Contrary what you might have heard, they are uncomplicated and inexpensive."

The Federal Lands, Marketing, Animal Health and Animal ID Committees met at the Prairie Vista Inn throughout the afternoon.

After the evening meal at the Chances R Steakhouse, Allen Badure, Belvidere, S.D., and McDonnell presented a handmade saddle to Dale McLellen, Lantry, S.D. McLellen’s name had been drawn as the winner of the R-CALF raffle saddle during the matched bronc ride in Ft. Pierre, S.D., on June 7, 2003.

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Board of Directors gathered for a morning meeting at Faith Livestock Commission Company on June 11, 2003. The board discussed several issues, among them was the need for an increase in brand inspection fees. Chief Inspector Jim Reed reported that insurance costs alone have more than doubled in the past year. The board voted to recommend a $.10 increase to the S.D. Brand Board, which would raise the fee to $.70/head.

For more information, contact Carrie Longwood or Jim Reed at the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association: 605-342-0429.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 29, 2003

For more information contact:

Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or carrie.sdsga@midconetwork.com

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

SD Stockgrowers, Senator Johnson Address COOL Questions

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association and several other organizations, including their national affiliate, R-CALF USA, joined Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) in a news conference April 28, 2003, to address questions concerning mandatory Country of Origin Labeling (COOL).

During yesterday’s event, at the downtown Holiday Inn in Sioux Falls, S.D., Senator Tim Johnson expressed to media, producers and organizational representatives his appreciation for the support that South Dakota has shown for the legislation.

Johnson said that "producers and consumers have asked for this law," and now, "it is USDA’s responsibility to implement it in a way that works." Johnson said he looks forward to the day when families across the U.S. will have the ability to know the source of the meat they eat, just like consumers in several other developed countries and regions, like the European Union and Canada.

Johnson also reminded everyone that the law does not call for third-party verification for U.S. origin. He said there are a number of other ways of verifying U.S origin of meat. "We’re not talking rocket science," he said.

Johnson said the U.S. Justice Department is currently investigating malicious letters that several large meatpacking companies have sent to producers, threatening financial harm. "The letters may be in violation of the Packers and Stockyards Act because of false and misleading information," said Johnson. "The packers are trying to scare producers. That’s wrong."

Ken Knuppe, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Vice President from Buffalo Gap, S.D., told media that the SDSGA maintains its support for COOL and continues to contact USDA with our suggestions for implementing the law in a way that’s least burdensome to producers.

The S.D Stockgrowers Association supports R-CALF’s "presumption of domestic origin" suggestion said Knuppe. USDA should label and track all imported meat and livestock, thus allowing for all "non-imported" meat to be considered domestic by default. Knuppe said, "U.S. producers need a simple, accurate and cost effective method of compliance. This idea fits the bill."

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 3, 2003

For more information contact:

Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or carriesdsga@miconetwork.com

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

Southern Hills CattleWomen Help "Beef Up" Air Base Morale

A local group of CattleWomen, based in Hot Springs, S.D., recently provided $700 worth of beef and beef certificates as prizes for a Mardi Gras celebration held on Ellsworth Air Force Base near Rapid City, S.D.

"We wanted the folks on the base to know that we’re behind them, and what better expression of South Dakota support, than a gift of beef?" said Barb Landers, Hot Springs, S.D., a Southern Hills CattleWomen representative who helped organize the sponsorship.

According to Destiny Geiger-Schuelke, EAFB staff, more than 250

people enjoyed the Mardi Gras party held February 28, 2003 at Dakota’s

Club located on the base.

"Creole style music filled the air as military members and families danced and visited," she said.

Geiger-Schuelke said two baskets of beef products, each worth $100, plus 25 $20 beef certificates were given as prizes throughout the evening. "The recipients of the prizes were excited and appreciative at the same time," she said. "It means a lot to us here on the base to know that local cattle producers and their families are behind us." Geiger-Schuelke concluded, "Beef is something that any of us can use - what a wonderfully practical gift."

"The South Dakota CattleWomen are proud of the Southern Hills CattleWomen for their hard work and generosity on this project, and also for their clearly patriotic attitude," said South Dakota CattleWomen President Jodie Shrempp, Dupree, S.D.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 5, 2003

For more information contact:

Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or carriesdsga@mcleodusa.net

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Discuss Issues at March Quarterly Meeting

Over fifty cattle producers took part in the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association latest Quarterly Meeting held March 3-4, 2003 in Chamberlain, S.D.

Committees including Brand and Theft, Ag and Natural Resources Animal Health, Animal ID, Wildlife Management, and Education/Taxation/Legislation met throughout the day Monday, March 3, 2003.

South Dakota's State Veterinarian Dr. Sam Holland spoke to the Animal Health Committee about CWD, anthrax and the Swift Fox Reintroduction. Next, the Animal ID Committee heard from Dr. Dick Bowman, a Rhame, N.D., veterinarian who represents R-CALF USA on the National Institute for Animal Agriculture's working group for the National Identification Work Plan. He reported that the group expects that the U.S. will eventually implement a national animal identification system.

"The Stockgrowers don't oppose a national ID system," said Animal ID
Committee Chairman, Kenny Fox, Belvidere, S.D. "But we do oppose an ID system that's connected to Country of Origin Labeling. We believe it to be an undue burden on producers, and besides that, the law forbids such an action."

The Wildlife Management Committee had invited other state ag groups to their afternoon meeting in hopes of forming a coalition to deal with environmental concerns. Representatives from the South Dakota Farmers Union, South Dakota Farm Bureau and South Dakota Cattlemen's Association participated in the meeting and offered input specifically concerning their respective organizational policy. Each of the groups is dealing with environmental concerns and hopes to work together in the future when possible.

"We wanted to reach a hand out to other ag organizations, to be sure they know we're ready and willing to work together," said President Bill Hutchinson, White River, S.D. "Agriculture in South Dakota continues to face challenges from so-called "environmental" pressures. It's important that we as ag organizations work as a team to deal with our members' issues and concerns. Rather than worrying about who gets credit for what, the Stockgrowers want to work together with other groups to make sure our members' time and dollars are used as efficiently as possible." The ag groups decided to continue their communication on environmental issues, says Hutchinson.

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Board of Directors met at 8:00 a.m. on March 4, 2003 at the AmericInn in Chamberlain, S.D. Steve Caty, Organization for Competitive Markets, provided information about the Cattlemen's Competitive Market Project, intended to restore competitiveness to the cattle market by addressing meat packer/retailer concentration, captive supplies and anti-competitive practices.

Carrie Longwood, Executive Director says the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association will provide financial support to the OCM's Cattlemen's Competitive Market Project. "The Stockgrowers believe the project to be a worthy cause," she said. "We share OCM's goal of restoring competitiveness at every level of the market place. We agree with OCM, cattle producers are at a critical juncture - we need to restore competition NOW before individual cattle producers become a thing of the past."

Longwood says the Board of Directors decided to hold their next meeting in Faith, S.D., in June, 2003.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 21, 2003

Fore more information contact:

Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or carriesdsga@mcleodusa.net

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Gear up for March Quarterly Meeting

Chamberlain to Host the Event March 3 & 4

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association hopes that all interested cattle producers will make plans to attend their next Quarterly Meeting scheduled for March 3-4, 2003, in Chamberlain, S.D.

Monday, March 3^rd will find committees including Animal Health, Animal ID, Wildlife Management, Ag and Natural Resources and Education/Taxation/Legislation discussing current issues and hearing from speakers. The Board of Directors will convene on March 4^th for their first official meeting of the year.

Carrie Longwood, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Executive Director, says that registration begins at 8:00 a.m. Monday morning at the AmericInn where coffee and rolls will be available.

According to Longwood, producers will have the opportunity to hear updates and ask questions of representatives from the offices of Congressman Janklow, Senator Daschle and Senator Johnson, at 11:00 a.m. "The Stockgrowers believe that building positive relationships with our Congressional Delegation is essential, and we encourage local producers to make those contacts as well," she said.

Following a noon meal sponsored in part by Marquette Bank of Chamberlain, State Veterinarian Dr. Sam Holland will update the Animal Health Committee on issues such as Chronic Wasting Disease and the Swift Fox reintroduction project. The meeting will be held at 1:00 CST, March 3, 2003, at the AmericInn.

"We look forward to every Quarterly Meeting with enthusiasm, and this one is no different," said Stockgrower President Bill Hutchinson, White River, S.D. According to him, the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association has gained new members all across the state and he hopes to meet some of the new members from the Chamberlain area. Hutchinson also encourages non-members to stop in, listen to committee discussions and ask questions. "The best way to know if you agree with the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association policy is to participate in a meeting."

If producers are unable to make Monday's committee meetings, they're welcome to join the Stockgrowers for an evening meal at Al's Oasis of Oacoma, partially sponsored by F & M Bank of Chamberlain, says Longwood.

To reserve a room, call AmericInn at 605-734-0985 and mention the Stockgrowers for a reduced rate.

For more information, contact Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429.

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South Dakota Stockgrowers Association

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 19, 2003

South Dakota Legislators Tell USDA: Don't Burden U.S. Producers

Encourage USDA to Utilize Import Documentation for COOL Recordkeeping

Following the South Dakota House of Representatives' move last week, South Dakota's Senators voted unanimously today to support a resolution urging USDA to implement Country of Origin Labeling in a way that will benefit U.S. cattle producers.

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association asked Representative Jim Lintz, Hermosa, S.D., to introduce the resolution in the House of Representatives.

"The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association is concerned that, in the rulesmaking process for Country of Origin Labeling, USDA may place undue burdens on U.S. producers. Congress specifically stated in the law that a mandatory identification system shall not accompany Country of Origin Labeling," said Bob Fortune, Belvidere, S.D., Chairman of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Marketing Committee." Fortune went on, "We're excited to see the overwhelming support for grassroots producers from South Dakota legislators. They truly want to keep agriculture viable in this state."

"Lintz's sponsorship as well as the overwhelming support from the rest of our legislators was encouraging," said Carrie Longwood, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Executive Director. "We didn't hear any dissenting arguments, in the house or the senate, but heard a number of senators and representatives speak in favor of the resolution from several different perspectives."

"South Dakota's Legislature is certainly on the right track," said Danni Beer, Keldron, S.D., R-CALF USA's Country of Origin Labeling Committee Chairman. "Clearly, they are encouraging USDA to promulgate the Country of Origin Labeling rules in a way that would be both simple and useful for U.S. producers, processors and consumers." Danni said she hopes that other states will send a similar message to USDA. "Every cattle-producing state should tell USDA that they won't settle for second-best for their producers or their consumers."

Following is an excerpt from HCR 1007, sponsored by Representative Jim Lintz, Hermosa, S.D., and Senator John Koskan, Wood, S.D.:

"WHEREAS, requiring labeling on all meats and livestock that enter this country would eliminate the need for costly and unnecessary records by United States producers to individually identify domestically produced livestock.

WHEREAS, too many unrealistic and unnecessary regulations could create more of a burden than a benefit for United States livestock producers. Such an action would be detrimental to South Dakota's agricultural industry and to United States consumers who want to purchase United States beef.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the House of Representatives of the Seventy- eighth Legislature of the State of South Dakota, the Senate concurring therein, that the South Dakota Legislature urge the United States Department of Agriculture to work to capture both the Congressional spirit and intent of mandatory country of origin labeling through the promulgation of rules that maximize benefits to both United States producers and consumers while minimizing costs to producers, processors, and retailers."

HCR 1007 can be found on the Internet:

http://legis.state.sd.us/sessions/2003/billlist.htm#HCR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 31, 2003

For more information contact
Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or carriesdsga@mcleodusa.net

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

R-Calf Recognizes Badure Ranch for Outstanding Support

Badure saddle to be displayed at Black Hills Stock Show

R-Calf USA, the nation's fastest growing national cattle organization awarded the Badure Ranch, Belvidere, S.D. with a plaque to recognize their overwhelming and continued support of the organization. The award was presented during Thursday evening's recognition ceremony held during the annual convention, January 23-25, 2003.

For the past four years, R-Calf USA has sold raffle tickets for a custom built saddle, made and donated by Baxter Badure.

Traditionally, the new saddle is unveiled at the Black Hills Stock Show, and this year is no exception, said R-Calf USA Executive Director John Lockie. "I'm anxious to get to Rapid City, just to see Baxter's latest masterpiece," said Lockie. "Every year, he absolutely outdoes himself on the saddle, people come back year after year to buy a chance on it."

"Baxter is a top-notch saddlemaker, one of the best I've seen," says Kenny Fox, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association District 11 Director, R-Calf member and neighbor to Badures. "It seems like everyone who sees the saddle wants to buy a raffle ticket. We raise a phenomenal amount of money for R-Calf through this raffle, and a substantial amount of support comes from folks at the Black Hills Stock Show. I couldn't thank Badures enough for their continued support for our organization."

Although the Badure family wasn't able to attend this year's convention, held in Kansas City, MO, Baxter's father, Allen Badure, Belvidere, S.D., will be at the Black Hills Stock Show in the R-Calf/South Dakota Stockgrowers Association booth nearly every day to show his support for the two groups.

"We're very grateful for the award," said Allen Badure. "I just hope everyone who attends the Black Hills Stock Show has the chance to stop at the R-Calf USA/South Dakota Stockgrowers Association booth to view the 2003 saddle."

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Joint News Release - South Dakota Stockgrowers Association and KBHB 810 Farm Radio

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 29, 2003

For more information contact:

Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or carriesdsga@mcleodusa.net

or Rhonda Hammerstrom at 605-347-4455 or kbhbprod@mato.com

South Dakotans Honored at R-Calf Annual Convention

KBHB Radio, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association recognized

South Dakota's active involvement with R-Calf USA this past year was noted and commended at the Fourth Annual R-Calf USA Convention, held in Kansas City, Missouri, January 23-25, 2003. As a "Thank You" for their efforts in organizing and promoting the R-Calf USA Fall Run calf auctions across the state, KBHB 810 Farm Radio, Sturgis, S.D.; Rhonda Hammerstrom, KBHB Ag Sales Executive, Sturgis, S.D., and Carrie Longwood, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Executive Director, Rapid City, S.D., accepted plaques during lunch on Friday, January 24, 2003.

"I can’t thank KBHB, Rhonda, and Carrie enough for all the hard work and support they have given to R-CALF USA and the U.S. cattle industry. We traveled to 14 salebarns across western South Dakota and traveled literally thousands of miles, but it was all worth it. The goal was to raise enough funds to place a full time staff member in Washington DC to coordinate information and help advance the U.S. cattle industry and we succeeded beyond all expectations." said John Lockie, Executive Director of R-Calf USA.

"KBHB is honored by the recognition," said news director Gary Matthews. "We intend to continue our coverage of agriculture-related events. This community relies on production agriculture, and so does our station." He added, "The importance of a viable livestock production industry is not something KBHB takes lightly. 'Thank you, R-Calf USA.'"

"I was absolutely shocked and thrilled to receive such an award," said Hammerstrom. "I was just doing my job - working for the producers of South Dakota and KBHB's listeners. I believe it is important to provide people with the opportunity to support an organization that they feel is working for them. As a KBHB employee, I wanted to cover the events to make sure everyone within the listening area was aware of the times and locations they were taking place. As a producer, I hoped the calf auctions would gather financial support for R-Calf." Hammerstrom concludes, "I feel like we were successful in both ventures, and I'm extremely honored to receive this award from the fastest growing national cattle organization."

Longwood said she appreciates the award immensely and would like to commend R-Calf for their willingness to "go, go, go," these past couple of years. "They go to where the producers are, and they listen," she says. "South Dakota producers have shown this fall that they want to support an organization that represents them. South Dakota producers, including South Dakota Stockgrowers Association members continue to be some of the most adamant and involved R-Calf members." She says that the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association is proud to be affiliated with R-Calf USA, the nation's fastest growing cattle organization.

Friday evening, January 24, 2003, Lockie presented South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Vice President Ken Knuppe, Buffalo Gap, S.D., with a Wheel Horse Award for his humorous writing ability.

Knuppe says he felt honored to be recognized among such media legends as Lee Pitts and Pat Goggins, who also received awards. "I was proud and humbled at the same time," said Knuppe. "Communication has been such an important tool for R-Calf - it seems fitting that they would recognize folks in the media for their hard work and dedication to the livestock industry." The significance of the award created a lasting impression. "It is something I will never forget," Knuppe said.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 13, 2003

For more information contact:

Carrie Longwood at 605-342-0429 or carriesdsga@mcloedusa.net

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

Focus on the Future: U.S. Cattle -- Panel Discussion to be held at the Black Hills Stock Show

R-Calf, NCBA to speak

The Black Hills Stock Show has always been a place for livestock producers to keep up-to-date on the latest news and information about the industry, and this year is no exception. The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association invites everyone to the Black Hills Stock Show on February 3, 2003 at 6:00 p.m. to hear from R-Calf USA, NCBA and an independent feeder, who all plan to address the following topic: Focus on the Future - Addressing the Concerns of U.S. Cattle Producers in 2003.

Cattle producers will have the chance to hear about the future of the cattle industry and how the two largest cattle organizations in the country plan to address their concerns in the coming year.

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association President Bill Hutchinson, White River, SD, said "This event will be a unique opportunity to hear not necessarily the problems in the cattle industry, but the solutions that each organization has proposed."

R-Calf CEO Bill Bullard, Billings, MT, is excited about speaking to producers during the Black Hills Stock Show. "I'm looking forward to sharing R-Calf's goals for the coming year. U.S. cattle producers have achieved things that many thought were impossible. R-Calf hopes to carry that momentum throughout this year to continue improving market conditions for U.S. cattle producers."

Gene Harris, Killdeer, ND, who serves as NCBA's Region 7 Vice President is looking forward to the opportunity to share NCBA's goals for the upcoming year. "We need to work together in this industry, not divide ourselves," he said. "I anticipate a good discussion between the presenters and I look forward to fielding questions from the audience as well."

Wyoming resident, Randy Stevenson from Wheatland says that it's important to focus on solutions to our concerns. "I've had lots of experience in this business. We all know what the problems are, let's work together toward a common solution for the benefit of everyone - from the producer to the consumer."

Following the three presentations, questions from the audience will be welcomed.

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