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July 23, 2010

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Supports USDA/GIPSA

South Dakota Stockgrowers agree with 64 other organizations, in a sign-on letter to the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, that the recently written rule regarding the Packers and Stockyards Act (P&SA) is necessary and according to directives in the 2008 Farm Bill.

Tuesday a group of lawmakers seated on the U.S. House Ag subcommittee proceeded to rebuke United States Department of Agriculture/ Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Act (USDA/GIPSA) officials, Administrator J. Dudley Butler and Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Edward Avalos for what the lawmakers said was outside the authority of USDA/GIPSA.

The letter, in part, said “Contrary to statements made during the hearing, USDA-GIPSA is well within its authority to issue these regulations. In fact, USDA-GIPSA is primarily responding to the directive of Congress in Title XI of the 2008 Farm Bill to promulgate regulations to establish criteria the Agency will use in determining which poultry and livestock industry practices it considers to be in violation of the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921 (P&S Act).

The P&S Act makes it unlawful for packers, swine contractors, and live poultry dealers to engage in any “unfair, unjustly discriminatory, or deceptive practice or device,” or to “make or give any undue or unreasonable preference or advantage to any particular person or locality in any respect, or subject any particular person or locality to any undue or unreasonable prejudice or disadvantage in any respect.”

Unfortunately, USDA-GIPSA has never issued the regulations necessary to define these broad prohibitions in order to adequately enforce the protections for livestock and poultry producers. As a result, the agency has been widely criticized by the Government Accountability Office, USDA’s own Inspector General, and outside stakeholder groups for its lack of enforcement of the P&S Act.”

On June 18, 2010 new rules were written which will provide enforcement of the almost 90 year old P&SA for the first time.

South Dakota Stockgrowers strongly support USDA/GIPSA and the recently proposed rule. For the first time in history cow/calf producers may be able to receive their fair share of the cattle market.


 

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

South Dakota Stockgrowers Join 55 in Letter to GIPSA

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association is part of a group of 56 organizations who recently sent a letter to J. Dudley Butler , Administrator, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)

The purpose of the letter is to urge Butler to deny requests to extend a 60 day comment period by 120 days.  The comment period in question has been established for public comments on a proposed rule which would address unfair and deceptive practices in the livestock markets. 

Stockgrowers’ President Kenny Fox, Belvidere said “The proposed rule would enable enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act which was implemented in 1921 and has not yet been fully enforced”.

The letter states that the 56 organizations “firmly believe the 60-day public comment period established in the 17-page Proposed Rule provides ample time to fully assess and evaluate the succinct provisions contained therein. We further believe the provisions contained in the Proposed Rule are tremendously important to the goal of reestablishing equity between disaggregated U.S. livestock and poultry producer and the highly concentrated meatpacking industries.” The letter further stated “We respectfully request that GIPSA hold firm its original 60-day pubic comment period for the Proposed Rule.”

Fox also stated “Any extension beyond the present August 23, 2010 date would pose one more hardship for cow/calf producers in that it would virtually guarantee a decision well past this year’s calf delivery dates and next year’s yearling delivery dates.  One more year could be the deciding factor for the survival of some operations.”


For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Thanks Senator Thune

 South Dakota Stockgrowers Association appreciates Senator Thune’s continued support for South Dakota ’s farmers and ranchers as he spoke at the Senate Energy Committee Public Lands & Forests Subcommittee hearing on June 16th.

Senator Thune spoke in opposition to the Tony Dean Cheyenne River Valley Conservation Act of 2010, a proposed wilderness area which would include 48,000 acres of Red Shirt, Indian Creek and Chalk Hills areas of the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands in South Western South Dakota.

Senator Thune stated that he shares the concerns of farmers and ranchers who fear that the wilderness designation would ultimately impact their operations.

He said “This land has ample restrictions already in place that have successfully kept this area in a pristine condition. I would caution this committee against imposing additional restrictions against the will of the local stakeholders.”

The Senator introduced Scott Edoff, a 4th generation rancher who has a grazing permit in this area and who gave testimony in opposition to the wilderness designation.  He said

“Scott’s testimony before the committee reflects not only his family’s views, but also the concerns of 30 government, trade, recreation, tourism, and agriculture associations that have weighed in against the proposed wilderness designation in South Dakota

Documents show that South Dakota ’s Governor Rounds and SD Legislature also oppose the wilderness designation.

The Stockgrowers thank Senator Thune for speaking on behalf of South Dakota ’s ranching community.


 

June 21, 2010

Contact: Silvia Christen, Development Director

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

Stockgrowers Plan Trip to South America

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association is taking reservations for an exciting trip to travel across Chile and Argentina this fall, from October 12 to October 22.  Reservations for the tour can be made no later than July 15 by calling Leslie at 605-341-0744.

“This trip was built specifically for us to see what farming and ranching is really like in another part of the world and it’s a very unique opportunity,” said Silvia Christen of the SD Stockgrowers.  “We’ll be traveling with other ranchers from South Dakota , and we have a Spanish speaking tour guide to help us get around the country and the language.”

The tour starts off in Santiago , Chile with three days of tours to wineries, cattle feeding operations, ranches, the shipping docks at the Port of Valparaiso , and some time to explore the city of Santiago .  From there, the tour crosses over the Andes Mountains into Argentina .  

We’ll spend 4 days enjoying tours of grass fed and conventional beef operations, local wineries, grain elevators, a farming operation, and tour the Cactus Feeders feedlot.  The tour ends with a few days around historic Buenos Aires , Argentina with a Tango dance show, tours of this enormous city, and a trip to the Liniers Cattle Auction which boasts some of the largest cattle auctions in the world, 5-days a week.

“The trip is open to anyone, and there’s only a few weeks left to make your reservations,” said Christen.  “Our travel agent can make arrangements for anyone from anywhere in the US .

For more information about this trip visit www.southdakotastockgrowers.org or call Silvia Christen at 605342-049.


June 21, 2010

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Thanks Local Rancher

Rancher Scott Edoff, Hermosa testified before the United States Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources in Washinton , D.C. June 16, 2010.  Scott testified on behalf of several organizations including South Dakota Stockgrowers in opposition to the Tony Dean Cheyenne River Valley Conservation Act of 2010, a proposed Wilderness designation for the Red Shirt, Indian Creek, and Chalk Hills areas of the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands.

Edoff is a 4th generation rancher whose ancestors began ranching in that area in 1887. He and his family still ranch there and have a grazing permit on the proposed Indian Creek Wilderness.

Edoff said “I find it tremendously ironic that multiple use management has been so successful that Wilderness advocates now believe that Wilderness designation is necessary to protect these areas from the very management that has resulted in the current conditions.” 

He further stated, “if these areas are not designated as Wilderness, they will still be rugged, remote, and inaccessible many years from now.  That’s just the character of the land.  I believe in multiple use management, and in sharing these special places with other users.  A lot of people and groups have an interest in this Wilderness proposal, but for me and the other permittees, it’s not just about recreation, it’s about the future of our family business.

Documents indicate the proposed Wilderness designation is opposed by Governor Rounds, County Commissioners in four counties, the Black Hills Badlands and Lakes Association, most of the permittees, the local rockhound organization, and motorized recreation organizations.

According to Stockgrowers Executive Director, Margaret Nachtigall many of the concerns of ranchers is the fact that too many wilderness areas are overrun by prairie dogs, Canada Thistle, and other pests to the extent that grazing has to be reduced due to lack of forage.

Nachtigall said “out hats are off to Scott for taking the time and resources to make the trip to Washington , DC and for providing such excellent testimony.”


 

June 18, 2010

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

South Dakota Stockgrowers Pleased with USDA’s Proposed Rule

Stockgrowers were extremely pleased when they saw United States Department of Agriculture’s proposed rules for the Packers & Stockyards Act of 1921 (P&SA).

USDA today released newly written rules and regulations on the Packers & Stockyards Act as required in the 2008 Farm Bill. As Grain Inspection, Packers & Stockyards (GIPSA) Administrator, J Dudley Butler told Stockgrower members at last years convention “The Packers & Stockyards Act will be enforced”. According to Stockgrowers’ Vice President, Shane Kolb , Meadow, SD “we are now seeing this come to fruition and we are excited.” He added, “I believe this is just a prelude of what’s to come.”

The new rules, which will can be commented on between now and August 23rd, when implemented will go a long way towards helping producers who are fighting for survival in a market controlled by meatpackers. The proposed rule will prohibit packers from unreasonable preferences or advantages for one producer over another.  It also provides that a producer when challenging unlawful treatment does not have to prove damage to the industry, as they do now; he/she will only have to prove injury to his/her own business.

Kolb also stated: “This is absolutely necessary for the survival of our United States farmers and ranchers and rural America as we know it.  We needed a provision to allow for enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act - without it the large conglomerates will control not only the meat industry, but the cattle industry as well.”


June 2, 2010

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

SD Stockgrowers Invite All Interested to June Meeting

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) invites local cattle producers, feeders and anyone interested in rural economics to join them in Highmore , S.D. , June 10 2010, for their upcoming Quarterly Meeting. All meetings will be held at the Grand Lodge in Highmore.

According to information from the Stockgrowers’ office in Rapid City committee meetings will be held throughout the day addressing issues in Trade, Animal Health and ID, Property Rights, Taxation, Ag & Natural Resources, and others.

Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. CDT with the Trade Committee leading off at 8:30. Other committee meetings will follow with Linda Gilbert, Buffalo winding up the morning session with a Cattlemens’ Beef Board (CBB) update at 11:30.  Ernie Mertz , Bowdle will address the noon time crowd with an update on the Beef CheckOff.

The afternoon will see more committee meetings with the Brand and Theft committee leading off at 1:00 p.m. under the direction of District 14 Director, Jim Murphy , Reliance, SD.  Other committee meeting in the afternoon are the Wildlife Committee, Education/Taxation/&Legislation, Ag and Natural Resources and the Finance Committee.

Joan Wollschlager, District 17 Director from Lake Preston said emphasized that everyone is welcome to attend all events – including committee meetings. “We encourage non-members as well as members to join us – we’d love to meet some local producers with an interest in the future of our rural economy and the viability of our industry.

Wollschlager added “This is truly a grass roots organization, allowing members and prospective members to ask questions, make comments and then address those issues in a straightforward manner.  The members I have worked with for the past decade take precious time from their own ranches and feed yards to help our cattle industry - the stuff on their boots is for real.  I invite everyone to take the day to join us for some up front conversation on improving the cattle producer’s chance of passing that family operation down to another member.”

President Kenny Fox stated that SD Stockgrowers wish to thank the Highmore Booster Club for providing supper at the Hyde County Memorial Auditorium at 7:00 pm.

Tentatively a tour of Watertown area farms and ranches has been scheduled for Friday, June 11 with a Barbeque to follow for the evening meal.  More information will be available at the Thursday afternoon meeting.


May 26, 2010

For More Information Contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org  

South Dakota Stockgrowers Support US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association is very appreciative of US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack's stand on the National Cattlemen's Beef Association's (NCBA) Governance Task Force (GTF) recommendation for the restructuring part of their organization that would affect the Beef Check Off Program.

According to a letter to NCBA's president, Steve Foglesong,  Secretary Vilsack states he has," serious concerns with the approach" of the GTF recommendations. SD Stockgrowers share those concerns due to the extent of the control the GTF is apparently recommending over the Federation of State Beef Councils and the extension of the policy side of the organization into the checkoff program.

Stockgrowers' Marketing Chairman Vaughn Meyer, Reva, S.D. stated that "the reduction of the firewall between the checkoff program and the policy side of NCBA could sever relations with individual producers and those in other organizations to the extent that the program would be inoperative."

Secretary Vilsack warns that the future existence of the Beef Check Off Program relative to the proposed GTF recommendations which impact the State Beef Councils (Federation) must include the following fire walls:

1.    The federation must be an independent organization. This requirement does not prohibit the federation from contracting for its administrative or other services with other organizations.  This requirement is consistent with the structure and administration of other check off programs where there is a clear distinction between policy organizations and check off programs.

2.    All funding decisions relating to check off activities must be made by the Federation and the Cattlemen's Beef Board and not by policy organizations.

3.    The Federation's members who serve on the Beef Promotion Operating Committee are to be nominated and elected only by the Federation.

4.    Federation members must not vote on policy matters, nor be required to purchase a seat in any policy organization.

5.    Regardless of structure, policy organizations should not be permitted to influence, determine outcomes, or vote on check off decisions.

6.    Animal Marketing Service (AMS) has statutory and regulatory oversight of the Federation and the Board.

7.    Failure to implement all of these firewalls would raise serious legal concerns as to whether the restructuring complies with the provisions of the Act and Order.

Secretary Vilsack's stern warning against GTF reorganization is a positive step for the preservation of the Beef Promotion Act and Order and our producer driven check off program.  Secretary Vilsack reiterated similar producer concerns for further transparency between the

Federation and its contracting policy organizations.  

The Beef Check Off Program was conceived through a 1984 producer referendum and became a concept by which beef producers could collectively promote their products.  The Beef Check Off program is producer funded and driven with over 97% of the producers represented through their established State Beef Councils and the Federation.

The South Dakota Stock Growers support and applaud the Secretary's decision to uphold our beef promotion program.  His stand on this issue demonstrates his approval for the endeavors of our state beef councils and Federation to promote, educate and support future research for our beef products.


March 26, 2010

For More Information Contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

South Dakota Stockgrowers Applaud State Attorney General on Anti-Trust Efforts

South Dakota Stockgrowers are pleased to learn that South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley is one of 16 attorneys general who signed on to a letter of recommendations recently submitted to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Department of Justice (DOJ).

Recommendations included a study of concentration and property rights in the seed industry, enforcement of the Packers & Stockyards Act (P&SA) which was implemented in 1921 but not enforced.

Livestock producers in South Dakota as well as other states have, for many years, asked for strong enforcement of the P&SA as they deal with more and more price manipulation, unfair trade practices and other harmful anti-competitive actions.

Stockgrowers and others have additionally requested assistance from DOJ in merger issues which ultimately move power to large multinational corporations at the expense of family farms and ranches.

USDA and DOJ have set series of meetings throughout the country to address these issues and to gather input from the grassroots members of agriculture.

The first meeting of the series was held in Ankeny , Iowa on March 12, 2010 and has been acclaimed a success by most in attendance. Other meetings are scheduled for May 21, Normal , Alabama , June 7, Madison , Wisconsin , August 26, Fort Collins , Colorado and December 8, Washington , D.C.

Stockgrowers are excited that USDA, the DOJ and these Attorneys General are coming together with farmers and ranchers and consumers in an effort to address the problems in our ag industry.


 

March 19, 2010

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:
605-342-0429 or margaret.sdsga@midconetwork.com
www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

South Dakota Stockgrowers ask for Disease Protection  

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association was dismayed at the recent notification of the 18th case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) discovered in Canada.

Stockgrowers’ president Kenny Fox, Belvidere, SD hand delivered a letter to US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack’s staff members on March 15, 2010 once more urging the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to restrict imports of potentially diseased cattle.

The letter delivered to Secretary Vilsack, and copied to SD Sec of Agriculture, Bill Even, SD State Veterinarian, Dr Oedekoven, SD Department of Agriculture Executive Policy Analyst, Blair Dunn, Senator Johnson, Senator Thune and Congresswoman Stephanie Herseth Sandlin again asked USDA to close the borders to cattle from countries that not only endanger the health of the Unite States cattle herd, but the health of the United States citizens.

President Fox’s letter said in part “Mr. Secretary, you stated on February 5, 2010 when you put the NAIS to rest and I quote: “Although USDA has a robust system in place to protect U.S. agriculture, with today’s announcement, the Department will also be taking additional actions to further strengthen protections against the entry and spread of disease. These steps will include actions to lessen the risk from disease introduction, initiating and updating analyses on how animal diseases travel into the country, improving response capabilities, and focusing on greater collaboration and analyses with States and industry on potential disease risk overall”.

  President Fox further stated “I applaud and commend you for this decision and because of this decision I respectfully urge you to close the borders not only to the BSE threats from Canada, but also Bovine Tuberculosis threats from Mexico.”

In October 2007 South Dakota Stockgrowers joined R-CALF USA and 9 other plaintiffs in a complaint filed against (USDA) in opposition to a proposed rule which would allow the importation of live cattle born after March 1, 1999.  Cattle of this age are extremely prone to (BSE).

On July 3 of the following year Judge Lawrence L. Piersol in United States District Court remanded the rule back to USDA at which time he also ordered them to file quarterly status reports to the Court.

However, the Judge’s ruling did not prevent the implementation of the rule and these older cattle are now routinely imported into the United States.

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association signed a letter, along with 39 other organizations November 17, 2009 requesting USDA to restore our disease protection to the levels they were  prior to relaxing the BSE restriction. A paragraph from that letter says “The proper policy is to bring United States’ BSE regulations in line with past standards, which were more closely aligned to the current standards of our trading partners.  Animal health as well as food and product safety, should be held in higher regard than trade facilitation.  Public support for such a change is clear.  The industry need is clear.  Consumer confidence would increase.  The United States’ current trade imbalances would become more balanced.  Risks to animal and human health would be drastically reduced.” 

- # # # -


March 11, 2010

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:
605-342-0429 or margaret.sdsga@midconetwork.com
www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

South Dakotans Appointed to National Board

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association was pleased to receive notification from the USDA Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack confirming the appointment of Linda Gilbert, Buffalo , SD to the Cattlemens Beef Promotion and Research Board (CBB). 

The CBB is authorized by the Beef Promotion and Research Act of 1985.  It oversees the collection of the $1-per-head beef checkoff which is assessed against the sale of all cattle sold in the United States and a per-head equivalent for imported beef and beef products.

The CBB also shares with the Operating Committee, the responsibility of contracting with certain non-profit organizations who choose to provide consumer education, promotion, research, foreign marketing and other beef related programs.

South Dakota Stockgrowers’ Marketing Committee Chairman, Vaughn Meyer , Reva , SD said “we applaud Secretary Vilsack’s appointment of Linda Gilbert to the CBB.  Linda’s dedication of service to numerous state and local organization along with her steadfast commitment to our beef industry makes her an excellent spokesperson for South Dakota and our beef promotion activities.”

Linda and her husband Ray are 4th generation ranchers on the Gilbert Angus Ranch, Buffalo , SD. They operate a commercial cow/calf family owned business that focuses on the use and conservation of natural resources.  Partners in the operation include daughter Andrea, son and wife Lloyd and Patty and grandchildren Sawyer and Grey.

Linda is a long time member of the Stockgrowers Association, a 5 year member of the Board of Directors and currently is Chairperson of the Ag and Natural Resources Committee.

She is an active member of R-CALF USA , Dakota Rural Action, the Black Hills Stock Show Foundation, and various other local organizations.

Linda is a graduate of Black Hills State University with a BA in Education and a minor in psychology.

Linda is one of two new appointees from South Dakota Danni Beer s, Keldron , SD was also appointed to the board. South Dakota Stockgrowers are excited about these appointments and very appreciative of Secretary Vilsack’s interest and support of the Checkoff program.


March 9, 2010

CONTACT: Silvia Christen - (605) 342-0429

ATTACHED: Class photograph

 SD Stockgrowers Agritourism Business Course Graduates Thirty

 Thirty individuals from across western South Dakota celebrated the completion of a five week Agritourism business planning course at South Dakota Stockgrowers Association office on Monday evening.   Graduates of the course, Agritourism: Your next cash crop?, received certificates, and announced the creation and expansion of twelve agritourism businesses.

Jan Jantzen who facilitated the course said, “Each of the graduates have spent twenty hours in class, thinking about the type of experiences they can provide, how they want to package, price and market that experience, and how to do it in a way that makes sense for their ranching operations.  They are as ready as they’ll ever be to start their businesses and I’m confident that we’ll see great things from this group.”

Bill and Cecilia Steen of Scenic attended the course to explore how they could expand their existing hunting business into a working-ranch vacation destination.  “We know what we had on our ranch, and we knew what we needed for a business, but just didn’t know how to start.  This course put us over the first hill.” Bill said, “Taking the class gave us the confidence to know that we can do this, and helped us to develop our ideas into a business plan.”

Twelve of the families attending the course announced new or expanding businesses ranging from trail rides and corporate retreats to chuck-wagon tours, dutch-oven cooking, working ranch vacations, and hunting excursions.

“Stockgrowers is proud to have been able to offer this course to ranchers in South Dakota ,” said Margaret Nachtigall , Executive Director for Stockgrowers.  “We wish all of our graduates the best of luck in their businesses and look forward to seeing them succeed.” 

This course was supported by the South Dakota Community Foundation, the Clarkson Family Foundation, and the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association.  Additional Agritourism courses will be offered in the fall of 2010 and throughout 2011.  Please contact Silvia Christen at the SD Stockgrowers Assoc., 605-342-0429, for more information about enrolling.

Graduates of “Agritourism: Your next cash crop?” announced the expansion or creation of twelve businesses on Monday, March 8 at the Stockgrowers office in Rapid City .

Standing Left to Right: Jacob and Richard Rausch, Hermosa, Bill and Cecilia Steen, Scenic, Jan Jantzen, Emporia, KS, Carol and Bob Rahja of Whitewood, Kendra Paulton of Edgemont, Dave Vinson of Martin, Mark Hollenbeck, Edgemont, Joanne Harmon and Helen Reidlinger of Sturgis, Bill Kluck , Mud Butte, Margaret Maloney, Hot Springs, Luke Lopez of Mobridge, Ned Westphal, Julie and Casey Brazell all of Custer, Margaret Nachtigal, Stockgrowers Exec. Dir., and Scott Walters of Faith.

Seated Left to Right: Kathryn Stewart, Ft. Pierre , Susan Paulton of Edgemont, Vicki Walters, Faith, Silvia Christen, Stockgrowers Staff, David Hauck of Martin and Travis Mickelson of Mud Butte .

Not Pictured: Jessica Deering from Hereford, Susan Ricci, Wasta, Linda Tidball, Edgemont, Dan O’Brien of Hermosa, Jill Maguire, Rapid City, Linda Gilbert of Buffalo, Mark DeVries , Belvidere, Larry Reinhold of Sturgis, and Jim Rothstein of Custer.

 


March 8, 2010

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Honored

The family of the late Doug Pederson, presented“ Silent Crossing”, a Jon Crane numbered print, to the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association as a memoriam to Doug on Saturday March 6, 2010

On hand to receive the gift was former Chief Brand Inspector, Jim Reed , Belle Fourche along with staff and former staff of the Stockgrowers as well as some of Doug’s friends and coworkers.  Doug’s family from Colorado to Sioux Falls gathered at the Stockgrower office to make the presentation.

Doug was a loyal and highly respected brand inspector for the Stockgrowers for many years continuing until the State of South Dakota ’s acquirement of the brand inspection program. He began his work as a brand inspector in 1988 at Winner Livestock Auction after having previously worked at both Belle Fourche and St Onge Livestock auctions while attending college.

In earlier conversation with Doug regarding his years as brand inspector he said his only regret was that he didn’t start sooner.

Former Chief Brand Inspector Jim Reed said “Doug was a good brand inspector, a good friend and a real asset to the Stockgrowers Brand Inspection Program.”

The South Dakota Stockgrowers are deeply honored to have received such a gift and to have had the chance to work with a man of Doug’s caliber.  

 

February 25, 2010

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:
605-342-0429 or margaret.sdsga@midconetwork.com
www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association 
Enjoys Successful Stock Show

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association would like to express their appreciation to the many individuals who made this year’s Black Hills StockShow a success for their organization.

According to the Stockgrower’s president, Kenny Fox, Belvidere “Scores of folks stopped by the booth to “talk shop” and to pay their annual dues. In addition we gained many new members as people become aware of the work R-CALF and SDSGA are doing. Also many, many individuals bought one or more chances on the R-CALF saddle.” 

Fox explained that the saddle is built by Baxter Badure, Belvidere and sponsored by the following South Dakota businesses; Badure Ranch, Belvidere, First Interstate Bank, Belle Fourche, Sturgis, New Underwood, and Wall; Fort Pierre Livestock, Fort Pierre, Herber Ranch, Kadoka, March Trucking, Hot Springs, Premier Equipment, Mobridge, and South Dakota Stockgrowers Association.

He said “the proceeds from the sale of raffle tickets for the R-CALF saddle goes to benefit R-CALF USA and the work they do for the benefit of all ranchers and rural communities. The raffle tickets are for sale from the beginning of the Black Hills StockShow until the drawing for the winner which takes place the first week-end in June at the matched bronc ride in Fort Pierre.”

From the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association – “our hats are off to all who helped make this a great StockShow.”


February 5, 2010

 

For More Information Contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

SD Stockgrowers Rejoice at NAIS News

Responding to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack’s announcement this morning that USDA will put to rest the present National Animal Identification System (NAIS), South Dakota Stockgrowers president Kenny Fox stated “This is a banner day for producers in South Dakota and across the country. We applaud the Secretary of Agriculture for listening to the voice of the people. At last summer's listening session in Rapid City 395 of the 400 present stood in opposition to the NAIS program. Many of those 395 people were SD Stockgrower members who have worked for years against NAIS and in support of sensible animal health programs."

Stockgrower Regional Vice President Bill Kluck , Mud Butte, SD stated “We thank the members of South Dakota Stockgrowers Association and R-CALF USA for their participation in the listening sessions throughout the country and for bearing with us when we were told we could not win.”

According to Stockgrowers member Nick Trask, Wasta, “Those individuals who thought NAIS was unreasonable have been vindicated.  To those of us in the livestock business NAIS didn’t make sense from the beginning, but many said we couldn’t stop this program – just had to go along. This shows what you can accomplish when you stand your ground.”

Stockgrower member Rick VanderWey, Valentine, NE said “It’s gratifying to see the Federal Government listen to the people who spoke throughout the country at the listening sessions this past year.  They are hearing the will of the people and this brings back confidence.  This is the beginning of restoring faith in our government.”

Chris Harvey, Stockgrower Director from district 12 commented “We know that a fully implemented voluntary NAIS was not much different than a mandatory one.  Today the news from the USDA is very encouraging. It is gratifying to know that our efforts are paying off.  It goes to show that if you engage the opposition with honesty and integrity you never lose.  Now is not the time to relax.  We still need to be involved to make sure that independent producers’ interests are protected in this new approach from the USDA.”

Fox further stated that we could not have succeeded without the joint efforts of grassroots producers and organizations throughout this country.  To many livestock producers who so passionately fought this battle, at times it seemed like David facing Goliath.” This is an opportunity for all producers to work together with the State Vet to build on the effective and efficient animal health programs already in place in South Dakota . The SD Stockgrowers Association looks forward to cooperating in this effort."

- # # # -


 

February 1, 2010

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

Stockgrowers Send Request to SD Secretary of Agriculture  

On January 21, 2010,At the request of South Dakota Stockgrowers Association President Kenny Fox , Belvidere , the following letter was delivered to SD Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Even , SD State Veterinarian Dr Dustin Oedekoven and chairmen of the Senate and House Ag Committees. Fox stated “South Dakota Stockgrowers request support of a 12 point plan to update the nation’s system for the traceability of  bovine disease in the United States .  This plan included a previously presented 8 point plan from R-CALF USA .” He stated the organizations who came together with the 12 point plan were American Angus Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, Dairy Farmers of America, Livestock Marketing Association, National Cattlemens Beef Association, R-CALF USA , Texas Cattle Feeders Association, and the US Cattlemens Association.”

 

Dear Secretary Even,

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association opposes a mandatory national animal identification system (NAIS) for livestock. Such a program is unnecessary, expensive, and duplicative of existing state-run programs. The SD Stockgrowers Association is one of 100 signatories to the November 18, 2009 letter to USDA Secretary Vilsack regarding NAIS funding and withdrawal of federal NAIS regulations. That letter notes that "NAIS is an ill-conceived, burdensome and badly implemented solution for achieving the national objective of improving animal disease prevention and control in the United States ."

While we are opposed to a mandatory NAIS, we do recognize the need for improved animal health systems. Thus, the SD Stockgrowers support R-CALF USA 's 8-point alternative course to NAIS.

The SD Stockgrowers also agree with the findings of the "Report on Cattle Identification Roundtable Discussion, Kansas City , Missouri , November 4-5, 2009 ". We particularly agree with that report's finding that "The first step in improving cattle identification is the individual identification of adult cattle (breeding age cattle 18 months or older, excluding those going into terminal feeding channels) by using the historically established federal and state cattle disease programs as models, such as the Brucellosis and Tuberculosis programs as they existed prior to any NAIS modifications."

In a June 12, 2009 letter to USDA Secretary Vilsack, SD State Veterinarian Oedekoven urged USDA-APHIS to "Keep animal health data at the state level." Dr. Oedekoven also identified the cattle breeding herd as the industry sector most in need of improved ID and traceability.

We note that USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service declined to forecast publication of a final rule on National Animal Identification System; Use of 840 Animal Identification Numbers for U.S.-Born Animals Only, in the agency's semi-annual regulatory agenda published Dec. 7. An APHIS spokesperson has publicly stated that the rules related to the NAIS have been placed on hold.

Our opposition to a mandatory NAIS is absolute. South Dakota producers must not be saddled with an unnecessary, expensive, and duplicative national animal ID system. But, in light of the above, we believe the best course at this time against a mandatory NAIS is to focus our efforts on improvements to existing state-level animal health programs. This will result in better animal health in South Dakota and will help preclude implementation of a mandatory NAIS.

Consequently, we look forward to working with Dr. Oedekoven and with South Dakota government officials to make certain that South Dakota ’s existing animal health programs are working in the best interests of South Dakota family ranchers and farmers and to thereby make a mandatory NAIS completely unnecessary.

Regards,

/s/

Kenny Fox , President

SD Stockgrowers Association


 

January 27, 2010

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

South Dakota Stockgrowers to Host John Munsell

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association will host John Munsell, Miles City, Montana at their annual Speaker in the Theater event at the Black Hills Stock Show in Rapid City on Monday, February 1.

The event begins at 5:30pm with a reception in the theater lobby sponsored by Heather Kime Territory Manager for Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health.  Munsell will speak at 6:30 in the Civic Center Theater.

Munsell’s family-owned slaughter and processing facility was involved in a recall of 270 lbs of E.coli-contaminated meat in 2002.  He said “USDA’s current method of non-inspection, called Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP), is based in political science and science fiction, guaranteeing ongoing outbreaks and recurring recalls.”

Munsells eventually sold the plant in 2005 and John became founder and now manager of the Foundation for Accountability in Regulatory Enforcement (FARE).

The foundation provides support for small meat plants, and provides ideas to the USDA for common sense changes in meat inspection policies.

Stockgrowers are proud to be able to bring someone with John Munsell’s expertise and common sense in the meat industry at a time when meat safety is front and center.


 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date:
January 25, 2010
Contact:
Silvia Christen, Development Director 605-342-0429

Agritourism Business Course Offered to SD Ranchers

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association is inviting ranchers to register for an exciting educational course entitled, “Agritourism: Your next cash crop?”.    “Agritourism: Your next cash crop?” is a five day course designed to provide farmers and ranchers with the tools needed to successfully start their own agritourism operations.

“The goal is for participants to be ready to start their agritourism businesses at the end of the fifth class period,” facilitator Jan Jantzen of Emporia, KS said.  “We want to help you think through what you have available on your farm or ranch, and how you can turn that into a successful tourism destination.”

“This is a result-oriented workshop, not an academic exercise,” said Jantzen.

The course was developed in Emporia, KS by the Flint Hills Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Area, Inc.  To date, participants in the course have successfully started over 26 new agritourism businesses.  Mr. Jan Jantzen, of the Flint Hills RC&D facilitates the entire course which will be taught by South Dakota experts on state regulations and licensing, insurance and risk management, marketing, and financial planning. 

“Stockgrowers is very excited to be offering this course,” said Silvia Christen, Development Director for the association.  “This course is a great way to help ranchers in South Dakota explore new economic opportunities, and also a great way to get some of our urban neighbors out to a ranch and help them to experience and learn about the realities of agriculture production and our rural culture.”

The course is set to begin on Monday, February 8, and will meet every Monday for five consecutive weeks, ending on March 8.  Each class meeting will be hosted at the South Dakota Stockgrowers office in Rapid City, and costs ninety-five dollars to enroll.  Each additional person from the same family or business may enroll for only fifty dollars

According to Jantzen, graduates of the course will have named and described their businesses in detail.  They will have identified specific groups of customers they what to serve, and they will have created marketing plans designed to reach them.  Graduates will learn how to use layers of liability protection for their assets; they will know how to price their products and services, and how to manage their income and expenses. 

To learn more about the course, or to register by February 1, visit www.southdakotastockgrowers.org, or contact Silvia Christen at 605-342-0429.


 

January 14, 2010

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:
605-342-0429 or 
margaret.sdsga@midconetwork.com

South Dakota Stockgrowers Thank Senators

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association is pleased with work done by South Dakota Senators in support of Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) which was included in the 2008 Farm Bill.  We thank Senator Johnson who is an original sponsor of COOL and has championed it from the beginning and we thank Senator Thune for his ongoing support.

 Led by South Dakota Senator Tim Johnson and Wyoming Senator Mike Enzi, 26 senators including South Dakota Senator John Thune submitted a letter to United States Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack and United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk. The letter made it clear that the United States should be granted the same rights to country of origin labeling as 45 other countries that use the country of origin labeling on certain foods including meats.

 Both Canada and Mexico , who have country of origin labeling laws of their own, have requested a hearing with the World Trade Organization (WTO) Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) charging the United States with unfair trade due to the implementation of (COOL).

 The letter stated, in part, “We believe that, in a manner consistent with General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) obligations, the COOL program as signed into law in the 2008 Farm Bill is nondiscriminatory in its treatment of imported goods, mandating that both domestic and imported goods covered under the law be labeled with country of origin”

Again, our hats are off to our South Dakota Senators.


 

January 11, 2010

From: R-CALF USA

Chief Enforcer of the Packers and Stockyards Act to Keynote 11th Annual Convention  

R-CALF USA will hold its 11th annual convention here Jan. 22-23, 2010, at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel, located at I-90 and Lacrosse St., Exit 59. Keynoting the convention will be J. Dudley Butler, Administrator of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA), the agency charged with the enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921 (PSA), which was established to protect independent cattle producers from the unfair and deceptive practices of the concentrated meatpacking industry.   

“Mr. Butler’s presentation is particularly timely, as USDA and the U.S. Department of Justice – for the first time in history – will soon conduct joint workshops on the state of competition in U.S. agricultural markets,” said R-CALF USA President/Region VI Director Max Thornsberry. “In preparation for the workshops, R-CALF USA submitted comprehensive comments and has called on both agencies to take immediate, decisive action to enforce the PSA by prohibiting the meatpackers’ ongoing use of price-depressing, captive supply cattle. 

“As everyone knows, today’s cattle prices do not reflect the severe shortage of cattle we have in this country or the price of beef at the grocery store, and it’s clear that R-CALF is the lead organization in the fight to solve these inequities,” continued  Thornsberry.   

“We only have a few booths left in the trade show area, so any vendors interested in having the opportunity to speak directly with our members who make the day-to-day decisions about their operations should contact me as soon as possible,” said R-CALF USA Membership Services Coordinator Laurel Masterson. She can be reached at 406-252-2516.  

“We are also offering the opportunity to sponsor events, a great advantage to those businesses unable to attend the convention, but still wanting to show their support for R-CALF,” she pointed out. “We’re expecting a good turnout from members as well. This is one of the few opportunities they have to devote two full days working with others to protect the future of the U.S. live cattle industry.” 

The convention opens at 10:00 a.m. local time on Friday, Jan. 22, and at 10:30 a.m., the R-CALF USA Private Property Rights Committee will get things underway with its fourth annual seminar on issues that affect landowners and/or individuals who graze cattle on public lands.  

The luncheon speaker for the day will be Brian O’Shaughnessy, chairman of Revere Copper Products, as well as a representative of the Coalition for a Prosperous America (CPA), a group dedicated to reforming harmful U.S. trade policies for agriculture and manufacturing. The afternoon wraps up with reports from the group’s Animal Identification, Checkoff, HACCP (hazard analysis and critical control points) and Animal Health Committees. The highlight for the evening’s dinner will be chief PSA enforcer J. Dudley Butler. 

On Saturday, Jan. 23, the day kicks off with a prayer breakfast. The speaker during the breakfast will be Steven Pratt. The morning continues with reports from the Marketing and COOL (country-of-origin labeling) committees. A presentation by R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard is next, followed by the Membership Committee report.   

The business session, where proposed policy resolutions are brought forward, will flesh out the rest of the afternoon.  

The convention wraps up with an evening banquet, featuring GB Oliver, III, and Bill Reynolds, both with the Paragon Foundation. The Paragon Foundation was created in 1996 to support the advancement of the fundamental principals articulated by the United States’ founding fathers in both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Following the banquet is an exclusive Membership Showcase where participants are encouraged to share any talents they have with the group.  

“We’ve added this new Showcase to provide a relaxing and light-hearted end to what will be a very serious two-day effort to improve the economic and political environment for independent cattle producers,” Masterson said. “It doesn’t matter if the talent is singing, playing an instrument, ventriloquism, dancing or comedy, we’re looking to show our members that even organizations as serious as R-CALF USA still have time for fun and relaxation.”  

Room rates for the event are $89 plus tax per night. Please call 605-343-8550 to make reservations. 

In order for credentialed media to secure complimentary registration and meals, they should contact     R-CALF USA Communications Coordinator Shae Dodson-Chambers at the phone number or e-mail address listed above no later than Jan. 14, 2010.