FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 11, 2007

 

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

 

SD Stockgrowers Thank Herseth Sandlin for Bill to Restore Competition 

 

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) is pleased to learn that Representative Herseth Sandlin (D-SD) along with Representative Barbara Cubin (R-WY) introduced H.R. 2214 this week to reform captive supply practices in the livestock industry.

 

According to SDSGA President Rick Fox, Hermosa , S.D. , meatpackers currently have the opportunity to manipulate the live cattle market with cattle that they own or have contracted.

 

“The Captive Supply Reform Act doesn’t take away a cattle producers’ options of contracting cattle, it simply requires that the contracts are based on a firm price rather than basing them on the whims of the cattle market at the time of delivery. The legislation also requires that deals be made in the open, to allow for true price discovery, not secret deals that leave producers uncertain about the actual fair market price,” said Fox.

 

Fox explains that contracted cattle can actually be used to leverage the cattle market and lower the cash price. “When meatpackers are able to contract good quality cattle months in advance, they are able to pull out of the market for days or weeks at a time, resulting in a market drop. Often times, after the market drops in this situation, the packers will take delivery on contracted cattle, for which no price has been negotiated. Many contracts specify that ‘market price’ will be paid upon delivery or slaughter. At that point, the cattle market is down, and the contractor is paid based on that artificially lowered market.”

 

Fox said the Stockgrowers strongly support competition and varied market opportunities for producers and feeders. “We want those in the cattle business to have every option available when they sell their livestock. We just want to ensure that it’s done in an open manner, to ensure that nobody is being treated unfairly.

 

Fox said the Stockgrowers appreciate Representative Herseth Sandlin for taking the initiative to introduce the bill and he encourages fellow cattle producers around the country to contact their representatives to urge them to cosponsor the bill.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 1, 2007

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

 

Brand Contract Ends; Stockgrowers Respond to Brand Board Proposal

 

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) yesterday offered the S.D. Brand Board a counter proposal regarding the service contract for the S.D. brand inspection program.

 

According to SDSGA Past President Ken Knuppe , Buffalo Gap, S.D., the S.D. Brand Board provided SDSGA with a proposal for a new contract in early April.

 

“The Brand Board is seeking some substantial changes in the way the brand inspection program is managed,” said Knuppe. “The Stockgrowers prepared a contract version that will keep the brand inspection program working efficiently and smoothly, and will also deal with the Brand Board’s concerns. We gave them our proposal yesterday.”

 

According to Knuppe, the brand inspection contract between SDSGA and the S.D. Brand Board ended on April 30, 2007 but will continue for 60 days according to a “grace period” built into the existing contract. “If we can come to terms on a new contract, it will need to be signed before June 30, 2007, which is the date that our brand inspection duties expire under this contract,” he said.

 

Knuppe said the Stockgrowers hope to negotiate a contract with the Brand Board that provides the best service for the most reasonable cost. The brand inspection program has always been funded entirely by the producers who benefit – no state or federal dollars have even been used. “We just want to ensure that there is a good, workable brand inspection program that prevents theft, returns strays and is economical for the producers of this state,” he said. “The Stockgrowers were actually formed in the late 1800s because a group of ranchers in Western South Dakota could see that brand inspection was needed to deal with cattle theft. This issue is alive and well today, and still a very important issue to SDSGA and to all cattle producers.”

 

But, Knuppe adds, the Stockgrowers are not willing to sign a contract that compromises the integrity of the program. “While we are very interested in continuing this service to South Dakota ’s producers, we are not interested in a brand inspection that develops into a bureaucratic nightmare. The livestock producers who fund the brand inspection program have to be the first priority; it is their program.”

 

Knuppe said the S.D. Brand Board informed the Stockgrowers last August of their intent to re-negotiate the contract.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 27, 2007

 

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

 

SD Stockgrowers Laud Ferret Hold Up  

Appreciate Thune’s help to delay re-introduction

 

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) is thrilled to discover that the proposed introduction of black footed ferrets into Wind Cave National Park has been put on hold.

 

According to SDSGA District 4 Director Randy Schroth, Buffalo Gap, S.D., the issue raises serious concerns with local ranchers. “There are several reasons the surrounding landowners have been worried about the proposal to bring ferrets into the park,” said Schroth. “One of my questions that hasn’t been answered yet is - who is liable for ferrets that move from the park onto private land? Some U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (US FWS) employees have promised that the ferrets would only be considered an ‘endangered species’ on the park, which would remove liability on private land, but we have yet to see anything in writing.”

 

Additionally, Schroth explains, that the public was originally told by the employees of Wind Cave National Park that the ferret would be an “experimental, non-essential population,” which means that the Endangered Species Act would not be a factor. “All of the scoping and the environmental impact studies were done on the premise that the ferret would be introduced in this category,” says Schroth. “Then at the last minute, things changed, and suddenly the ferret was going to be considered an endangered species. To landowners, this means a lot more risk of losing our property rights.”

 

Senator Thune (R-SD) shares these concerns with the SDSGA and area ranchers, and following a staff meeting with SDSGA directors Wednesday, Thune issued a letter to the Park Service, requesting written documentation from the US Department of Interior, outlining the guarantees made to landowners.

 

According to a news release issued by Thune’s office, the senator yesterday sent a letter to U.S. Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne, expressing his concerns with the impending reintroduction of the black-footed ferret and requesting that, prior to the release of black-footed ferrets in Wind Cave National Park, the Interior Department provide written confirmation of specific guarantees to landowners who will be impacted. Senator Thune also included a letter from the Fall River County Commissioners that describes several concerns shared by a coalition of residents, landowners, and public officials in the Wind Cave National Park area.

 

“I’ve written the Interior Secretary to ensure he is aware of the serious concerns of area residents and landowners who will be impacted by the reintroduction of black-footed ferrets into the Wind Cave National Park ,” Thune said in the news release. “It’s critical that the Interior Department gives due consideration to these legitimate concerns.”

 

The Stockgrowers appreciate Senator Thune’s involvement in the issue, and his refusal to give up even when indications showed that the introduction could not be slowed.

 

“When we met with Senator Thune’s staff Wednesday, and explained our concerns to them, it was clear that they intended to waste no time in seeking immediate action,” said Schroth. “The Stockgrowers really appreciate Thune’s continued support for property owners and while we don’t know how long this ferret introduction project will be ‘on hold,’ we intend to continue working with our congressional delegation to ensure property owners are protected.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 19, 2007

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

SD Stockgrowers Pleased with R-CALF Farm Bill Testimony

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) appreciates the testimony presented yesterday by R-CALF USA Director Eric Nelson, Moville , Iowa , to the Senate Ag Committee regarding the Farm Bill.

 

Nelson’s testimony focused on the pressing need for a competition chapter in the 2007 Farm Bill. 

 

Nelson told SDSGA that of the 11 individuals who testified, eight spoke about the need for captive supply reform. “It was really refreshing to hear the testimony from independent hog, poultry and other livestock producers who believe like we do, that fair competition needs to be restored in the livestock market place. R-CALF and independent cattle producers are not an ‘island in the stream,’ rather livestock producers all across the country are speaking out about the problems caused by the control of the big meat processors.”

 

Nelson cited facts, figures and personal experience to explain to the Senators the current lack of fair competition and transparency in today’s cattle market.

 

“ R-CALF USA believes that each segment of U.S. agriculture should have the opportunity to prosper at the same time, without pitting one against another. This belief is based on our knowledge that competitive markets have long assimilated increased production costs without rendering entire industry segments unprofitable,” Nelson told the committee.

 

“The core problem facing the cattle industry today that the 2007 Farm Bill can help to correct is that the overall framework that defines how our cattle industry operates is no longer adequate to ensure a balanced and properly functioning competitive marketplace. The present industry framework comprised of the statutes, regulations, and policies that govern contracts and market competition, consumer information and information disclosure, heath and safety, and trade have evolved under the considerable influence of the nation’s largest meatpackers; and without sufficient counterbalance from producers. As a result, the balance of power within the present industry framework is tilted in favor of the meatpackers, resulting in a pricing advantage for them and an erosion of competition for livestock producers,” he added.

 

Nelson shared statistics to prove the severe reduction in the cattle producers’ and feeders’ share of the beef dollar, and countered the processing and retailing argument which claims that their buying practices have benefited consumers. “The impact of packer concentration and abusive contracting practices is evident in the declining share of each beef retail dollar that actually reaches cattle producers. The producers’ share of each retail dollar earned on beef was 47 cents in 2006, down from 60 cents in 1990.8 Looking the opposite direction along the food chain reveals that consumers have likewise not benefited from packer concentration and abusive contracting practices. The price spread between what the cattle producer receives per pound of beef sold and what consumers pay per pound of beef purchased has widened dramatically, with the spread nearly doubling from $1.13 per pound in 1990 to $2.10 per pound in 2006.9 In fact, the retail carcass value paid by consumers in 2006 was $580 more than they paid in 1990, while cattle producers received only $89 more for their live cattle in 2006 than they did in 1990.10”

 

Nelson is a cattle producer and feeder who sells finished cattle, and has real life experience dealing with the purchasing practices of the large packing companies.

 

Nelson related some of this knowledge in his testimony: “The meatpacker’s use of captive supply cattle is akin to insider trading. With captive supply cattle, the packers know how much of their slaughter capacity is filled each week and at what price before they enter the cash market; they also know how many captive supply cattle are available at a known price to fill their slaughter needs in the event the cash market is not low enough to achieve their pricing objectives. This information is not reported to the public, and certainly not to the cattle feeder. It is time for the cattle market to follow the long-established principle of transparency that facilitates competitive Wall Street-like trading.”

 

Nelson encourages folks to go to www.r-calfusa.com to view his entire testimony.

 

According to Nelson, following the hearing, R-CALF joined a coalition of several other livestock groups in meeting with Senators individually to further explain the competition issues including country of origin labeling, captive supply reform and interstate shipment of state inspected meat, discussed during the hearing. “R-CALF is seen as a leader on this issue by other groups - they are very grateful that we have taken the initiative on captive supply reform, the packer ban and other issues that will help restore fair competition in the marketplace.”

 

Nelson adds that Senator Harkin, (D-IA) personally thanked him for R-CALF’s leadership on competition issues and explained that he and other Senators are counting on R-CALF to continue to provide a lead industry role in ensuring that a competition chapter is included in the farm bill.

 

Nelson also commented that he appreciated Senator Thune’s (R-SD) input and questions during the hearing, which sparked important discussion about consolidation and control within large agribusiness companies.

 

“Yesterday’s hearing brought us another step forward in writing a farm bill,” said Senator Thune. “Considering recent higher feed prices and adverse weather conditions, South Dakota livestock producers are facing more than their usual range of obstacles to turn a profit.  Oftentimes the anti-competitive practices at the marketplace, which I oppose, also stand in the way of farmers and ranchers making a profit.  I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Senate Agriculture Committee to ensure our producers get the best possible price for their products.”  

 

The Stockgrowers are pleased that R-CALF USA , the nation’s largest U.S. live cattle organization, was aptly represented in the Senate Ag Committee Hearing. Additionally, the Stockgrowers are grateful for support from Ag Committee member Senator Thune as well as Senator Johnson (D-SD) on competition issues within the Senate version of the Farm Bill.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 29, 2007

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

SD Stockgrowers Disappointed: Veto will Stand

 

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) was pleased to see a strong majority of state senators vote in favor of SB 103 even after the bill was vetoed by the governor. Unfortunately, according to SDSGA lobbyist, Ken Knuppe, Buffalo Gap, the 21-13 vote in favor of the measure to set up districts from which brand board members would be appointed fell just shy of the 2/3 majority needed to override the veto.

 

“As a brand owner and a cattle owner, I am encouraged by the support and understanding the legislators displayed regarding this issue. During session, both the Senate and the House supported the bill overwhelmingly. And again on ‘veto day,’ far more than half of the senators cast a favorable vote,” said Knuppe. “Clearly they trust and respect ranchers, and look to us for guidance on issues such as this.”

 

Knuppe said that because a 2/3 vote was needed in both houses to override the governor’s March 20, 2007 veto, the bill will not be enacted.  

 

According to Knuppe, the Stockgrowers are hopeful that the governor will heed the concerns of ranchers in the northern part of the brand inspection area ( West River South Dakota ) when an opening becomes available on the brand board. “The ranchers in the northern part of Western South Dakota are not currently represented on the brand board – hopefully this will be remedied with the governor’s next appointment,” said Knuppe. “The economy in that part of the state is the cattle industry, and there are many highly qualified individuals, experienced in all facets of the cattle business, who would serve the industry well on the Brand Board.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 21, 2007

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

SD Stockgrowers Disappointed: Governor Vetoes Brand District Bill

 

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) was discouraged to learn today that Governor Rounds vetoed SB 103, a bill that enjoyed strong bipartisan support in the legislature, that would set up districts across the state from which the Governor would appoint Brand Board members. S.D. Senators supported the bill with a 24-11 vote, while the votes were tallied at 45-25 on the House side.

 

According to SDSGA President, Rick Fox , Hermosa , S.D. , the issue isn’t dead yet. “March 26, 2007 is ‘veto day’ in the legislature, which allows our senators and representatives, with a 2/3 majority vote, to overturn unnecessary vetoes like this one.”

 

SB 103 was co-sponsored by legislators from Northwestern South Dakota who had serious concerns about the lack of representation from the northern part of the brand inspection area (West River South Dakota) said Fox.

 

The bill would establish three districts – one being all of the counties East of the Missouri River , and the other two districts being created by dividing the counties west of the River into a North District and a South District.

 

“Bill sponsors Representative Betty Olson and Senator Ryan Maher represent districts that rely heavily on cattle production for their economic base. They were contacted by ranchers in their district who were worried that, of the five brand board members, none live in the northern portion of the brand inspection area,” said Fox. “The bill is a simple measure to give the governor direction when appointing future Brand Board members, to be sure that South Dakota ranchers are fairly represented on the Brand Board. Governor Rounds has never appointed a Brand Board representative from the proposed Northwestern District.”

 

“This bill just makes sense and doesn’t cost taxpayers a penny,” said Fox. “If our legislators weren’t representative of districts, the rural areas would have no voice – most or all of the legislators would come from Rapid City and Sioux Falls . Unfortunately, the northern part of the brand inspection area doesn’t have a voice on the Brand Board right now and hopefully the legislature realizes that this needs to be remedied,” said Fox.

 

According to Fox the Stockgrowers encourage anyone who supports this bill to call senators and representatives across the state, urging them to vote yes for SB 103 on Monday. Additionally, folks may attend ‘veto day’ at the capitol on March 26, 2007 to support the bill.

 

Fox explains that the S.D. Brand Board is a five-member board appointed by the Governor. The Brand Board is required to ensure that brand recording, livestock theft investigations and inspection laws are enforced. Currently the Brand Board contracts with the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association to handle the inspection program. The Brand Board office and the brand inspection program are producer-funded programs; no state or federal tax dollars are utilized.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 16, 2007

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

 

S.D. Stockgrowers Do Not Support FSA Office Closings

 

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) has not supported the proposal by the Farm Service Agency to close county offices around the state.

 

According to SDSGA Vice President Larry Nelson, Buffalo , S.D. , State Executive Director of the South Dakota Farm Service Agency, Steve Cutler, contacted the Stockgrowers last summer to request a meeting with the group, to discuss the proposed plan. The Stockgrowers invited Cutler to the SDSGA Annual Convention in September where members had the opportunity to visit one-on-one with Cutler about any issues of concern.

 

“I personally visited with Cutler, as did several other Harding County ranchers. We strongly encouraged him to keep the Harding County office open, and never at any time did we recommend the closure of any county offices,” said Nelson.

 

Nelson adds that because of the economic benefit an FSA office can provide to a small community, the Stockgrowers are not satisfied that any county office closures would actually create any overall savings.

 

According to Nelson, the Stockgrowers support local control in every facet of government. “It is our philosophy that the local producers know what is best for their communities. Just as county commissioners are often better equipped to deal with county issues than state lawmakers may be, in the same way, FSA county committees should be consulted and trusted in all matters involving their local offices.”

 

The Stockgrowers appreciated the opportunity to visit with Cutler and look forward to continued communication with the state FSA office.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 22, 2007

 

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

 

SD Stockgrowers Invite Producers to Meadow, Vivian and Lake Preston Meetings 

 

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) encourages everyone involved in the cattle industry to make plans to attend upcoming Area Meetings across the state for a free dinner and discussion about current cattle industry issues.

 

Kicking off the weekend, ranchers in the Meadow, S.D., area should plan to meet at Smokey’s Bar and Grill on Friday, March 2, 2007, at 6:00 pm Mountain Time. SDSGA District 8 Director Bill Kluck, Mud Butte, S.D., will discuss animal identification and SDSGA Vice President Larry Nelson, Buffalo , S.D. , will address other cattle industry issues including property rights, the “Over 30 Month Rule” and the Beef Checkoff.

 

Next, the Stockgrowers hope local ranchers will head to the Vivian Restaurant and Lounge on Saturday, March 3, 2007, at 6:00 pm Central Time, to hear from SDSGA President Rick Fox, Hermosa, S.D., and Vice President Nelson. Topics will include the Open Fields Doctrine, Beef Checkoff and the “Over 30 Month Rule.”

 

Finally, the Stockgrowers invite producers in and around the Lake Preston area to head to town on Sunday evening, March 4, 2007 at 5:30 pm Central Time, for the last meeting of the weekend. Meeting location is yet to be determined. Fox and Nelson will both speak, covering industry issues similar to the previous meetings.

 

According to Fox, everyone is welcome to attend the meeting, both members and non-members of the organization. “There will be something for everyone, so whether you’ve been a member for years or you’re just learning about the cattle business, we hope you’ll stop in to learn about the market, trade and property rights issues that the Stockgrowers are addressing to help cattle producers improve their bottom line.”

 

A meal will be served at each meeting, compliments of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 20, 2007

 

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

 

SD Stockgrowers Renew Affiliation with R-CALF

Also: Plan to work with Governor Rounds to halt USDA’s OTM Rule

 

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) Board of Directors unanimously agreed on February 14, 2007, to renew their affiliation with R-CALF USA , the only national organization dedicated to representing strictly the U.S. live cattle industry.

 

According to SDSGA President Rick Fox , there was enthusiastic support among the directors, for the move to renew their affiliation. “We’ve experienced great successes in the cattle industry since R-CALF was first created. We look forward to continued success as we work together to achieve fair trade policies and to prevent the United States from becoming a ‘dumping ground’ for the world’s poorest beef.”

 

The SDSGA Quarterly meeting, which landed on the 6^th anniversary of their first vote to affiliate with R-CALF, was held at the Pierre Inn and Suites in Pierre , S.D. , on February 13-14, 2007.

 

Another highlight of the meeting was a discussion with Governor Rounds, which resulted in agreement regarding USDA’s proposed rule to relax importation requirements and allow Canadian cattle over 30 months of age to enter the United States . “Governor Rounds agrees with the Stockgrowers 100% that the ‘over 30 month rule’ needs to be rescinded. Clearly Canada has not managed to fully enforce their feed ban - several cases of BSE have been detected in cattle born after it was implemented. USDA needs to take back the proposed rule, in order to protect American consumers and producers from the unknown level of risk associated with importing diseased cattle.”

 

Governor Rounds told the Stockgrowers, “This February, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) was discovered in a tenth Canadian-born bovine.  It is undeniable that there are problems in Canada regarding BSE and they clearly can not show us their current feed ban is working.  We can't let BSE infected cattle commingle with our herds because U.S. cattle producers will suffer the consequences as was the case when BSE was discovered in a Canadian-born cow in Washington State .  The discovery devastated our country’s export market and threatened consumer confidence in beef.  Studies reveal that the discovery of BSE in that single cow cost the United State ’s beef industry between $3.2 billion and $4.7 billion in annual losses.  I will not support opening the Canadian border to live cattle over thirty months of age until the Canadian Government can prove, using sound science, that they have a handle on their BSE problem.”

 

Fox said the Stockgrowers appreciate Governor Rounds’ foresight on the border issue. “The Stockgrowers are grateful that our Governor acknowledges the risks posed by USDA’s rule, and we are even more thankful that he intends to work with the cattle industry to convince USDA to rescind the dangerous rule.”

 

According to Fox, the Stockgrowers welcome two new individuals to the Board of Directors - Chuck O’ Connor, Philip , S.D. , and Barry Valburg, Draper, S.D.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 1, 2007

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

SD Stockgrowers Congratulate Two Members Honored at Black Hills Stock Show

photos

 

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) applauds Jim Reed, Belle Fourche and Delores Knuppe, New Underwood, two of the honorees recognized at the Black Hills Stock Show (BHSS) Stockmen’s Banquet and Ball on January 31, 2007, in Rapid City, S.D.

 

SDSGA President Rick Fox, Hermosa , S.D. , says that both individuals have been active members of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association for several years, participating in different ways. “Both Jim and Delores have been an asset to our organization. Jim as our head brand inspector and Delores as an involved member who attends local meetings and asks the right questions.”

 

Reed, who was chosen as the BHSS Agribusiness Person of the Year, has been employed by the SDSGA as their Chief Brand Inspector for about 15 years.

 

In addition to the pair of ostrich skin boots he received from the BHSS, Reed was also recognized by his fellow brand inspectors, and honored with a belt buckle inscribed with his name, position and the year. The SDSGA also gifted Reed with an iron cut-out of the SDSGA ‘horse and rider’ logo.

 

Knuppe joined the Stockgrowers when they became affiliated with R-CALF USA . She was presented with the BHSS Hall of Fame Silver Spur award for her dedication and contributions of time and resources to the BHSS throughout the years. She received a pair of handmade silver spurs from the BHSS.

 

Fox said that he was not surprised to learn that two SDSGA members had been selected for the prestigious BHSS honors. “Our members are active, informed producers who truly want to make a difference in our industry. Jim and Delores are perfect examples of this. We are proud to call them members of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association and we tip our hats to their accomplishments!”

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 30, 2007

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

SD Stockgrowers Congratulate Two Members Honored at R-CALF Convention
Photos

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) was pleased that two of their members were recognized during ‘Awards Night’ at the R-CALF convention in Denver , Colo. , on January 19, 2007. Nicole Steffes, Vale, S.D., was awarded one of just four “Leo and Sam McDonnell” Scholarships and Jim Korkow, Korkow Rodeos, Pierre, S.D., was honored by the Cattlemen’s Competitive Market Project for his ongoing work to promote USA Raised Beef.

 

SDSGA Executive Director Carrie Stadheim, Rapid City , S.D. , said that she was not surprised at the strong presence South Dakota exhibited throughout the convention, including the Awards Presentation. “ South Dakota ’s involvement in R-CALF has been strong from the very beginning. It’s no surprise that two of our own would stand out in the organization as worthy of recognition.”

 

“We’re proud of the caliber of cattle producers in this state and Nicole and Jim rank right at the top.” Stadheim said both individuals were deserving of the awards presented to them, and both are well-respected, top-notch ranchers.

 

“We wish Nicole the best of luck as she moves forward in her education. Her Biology degree, combined with her experience on the ranch will make her a real asset to our industry,” said Stadheim.

 

Stadheim also extends a warm congratulation to Korkow Rodeos. “Jim has been a delight to work with - it is clear that his passion is agriculture and the people who make up our industry. He has gone ‘above and beyond’ to promote USA Raised Beef and to help educate the public about country of origin labeling. As a rodeo stock contractor, he has a unique opportunity to reach both the general public and also fellow ranchers. He has positioned himself very wisely…and used every opportunity to communicate with all of those groups of people.”

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 29, 2007

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

SD Stockgrowers Speaker at BHSS Addresses Important Land Use Issues

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) appreciated the opportunity to host Bruce Vincent, Libby, Mont., as a featured speaker at the Black Hills Stock Show on Monday, January 29, 2007.

 

“I’ve heard Bruce speak before and I enjoy always enjoy his common sense approach to politics and property rights,” said SDSGA Vice president Larry Nelson. “Bruce talked about the importance of being involved in the political process in order to protect our rights and educate the public. He urged everyone to spend at least one hour per week being an activist for the ranching industry. He said that being an activist doesn’t mean that you ‘throw a box through the window of a Starbucks’ but that you get involved in important issues affecting your livelihood.”

 

According to Nelson, Vincent’s family has owned and operated a local logging company in Libby , Mont. , for several decades. But the once-thriving business, employing 63 people at their peak, now processes only a fraction of the lumber they once did, and claims just three people on their full time payroll. “He told us that the timber industry made some grave mistakes in their effort to battle the environmental movement. He encouraged those of us in the ranching business not to make those same mistakes.”

 

By educating the public regarding the positive impact that cattle and ranchers have on the environment, Vincent said the cattle industry will find friends among the American public. “You need to tell your story, show them that you are good managers of natural resources, that you are helping the environment, not hurting it,” Vincent told the crowd.

 

Vincent also encouraged the cattle industry to educate the public about the benefits of country of origin labeling. “They need to understand that U.S. ranchers and loggers operate under the strictest environmental guidelines and provide the best product in the world. Sure, we can import raw products cheaper from other countries, but many of the producers in those countries don’t have the wherewithal to protect their environments like U.S. producers are doing.”

Vincent started the Provider Pals program which links an elementary urban classroom with a provider – a rancher, farmer, miner or logger. The program gives the provider the chance to teach the elementary students about the positive aspects regarding natural resource management by experienced individuals. Vincent said there are classrooms across the country seeking a Provider Pal and he encouraged everyone to get involved by contributing or by taking steps to become a Provider Pal.

 

Nelson said that the Stockgrowers appreciate Provider Pals, Fort Dodge Animal Health, Cammack Ranch Supply, Anipro - Xtraformance Feeds, Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn, Clark Printing, S.D. Public Lands Council, Don Hausle CFP, The Black Hills Retirement Planning Specialist, Black Hills Regional Multiple Use Coalition and the B. H. Forest Resource Association for their support of the event.

 

For more information, contact the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association at 605-342-0429.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 29, 2007

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

SD Stockgrowers Announce: SD Producer Paid for Canadian Cattle Sent to Swift

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) was pleased to learn that Jan Van Dyke, Wessington Springs, S.D., was recently paid for Canadian cattle that had been condemned at a Swift packing plant in Nebraska.

 

Van Dyke, a farmer feeder, says the calves were not represented as Canadian cattle at the market where he purchased them in February 2006. He found out only when the cattle were finished and transported to a Swift packing plant, where the Canadian eartags were cut out and photographed. He was then informed that the cattle had been condemned and that he would not receive payment for them or for the offal on the entire load.

 

According to SDSGA President Rick Fox, Hermosa , S.D. , Van Dyke has now received a check from Swift to cover the value of the fat cattle and the offal, a total of about $11,000, which was originally held out of his check for the load of fat cattle delivered in November.

"The Stockgrowers were involved from the moment we heard about this incident.
There were several details about the Canadian cattle that had us concerned, but the biggest worry was the fact that this South Dakota feeder had been denied payment on seven head of cattle, plus the offal for the entire load." Fox says that Van Dyke was an innocent party who had unknowingly purchased Canadian feeder calves that should never have entered commerce.

 

He was later contacted by a USDA investigator who told him that there had been a mix-up, and that USDA believed that the cattle had actually never been on his place, but had been shipped directly from Canada to the Swift packing plant. Van Dyke disagrees.

"I gave the USDA inspector an affidavit the last time he was here, stating that the suspect cattle were definitely in the load we sent to the packer. Although we had not known that they were Canadian cattle, we recognized the eartags that were shown to us by the inspector after the cattle were received by the packer," said Van Dyke. The Van Dyke family appreciates the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association, Herman Schumacher, Herreid Livestock and Bill Bullard, R-CALF USA , for getting involved to make sure he received payment for all of the cattle he delivered.  

 

Fox is glad that the Stockgrowers could help. "I just wonder how many more feeders are delivering cattle to packing plants across the country and running into this same problem. I hope they speak out so we can resolve this problem."

Fox says that in addition to the Stockgrowers concerns about Van Dyke's check, they are also worried about USDA's importation process. "When cattle enter the U.S. from Canada , they are supposed to be shipped in sealed trucks to an identified feedlot. They are to remain in that particular feedlot until they are ready to be slaughtered." According to Fox, if USDA had enforced their own import guidelines, these calves would never have showed up in a S.D. salebarn. "I always believed that our U.S. Department of Agriculture was in place to help U.S. producers, but their lack of enforcement of their own guidelines, as well as their insistence on importation of foreign cattle at any
expense has caused harm to our entire industry, and serious harm to Van Dyke."

An even larger looming concern, according to Fox, is that rather than tightening security to prevent problems like this in the future, USDA has actually now proposed further broadening import guidelines to include older cattle from Canada . "It's ludicrous to think that USDA would even consider allowing the importation of cattle from Canada that are over 30 months of age. It is a proven fact that Canada has a BSE problem in their cattle that were born after their feed ban was implemented. Back in 2003, the U.S. lost our entire export market due to a Canadian-born cow found in Washington State with BSE. Now USDA proposes to re-open the border to these potentially diseased older cows from Canada ! Clearly they are unable to keep track of the Canadian cattle that enter this country, and they become the burden of the U.S. producer who knowingly or unknowingly purchases them. USDA needs to pull their proposal to allow 'over 30 month' cattle and also their rule allowing 'under 30 month
cattle' and take the time to figure out what the U.S. cattle industry really needs - protection from animal disease at our borders."

According to Fox, SDSGA sent Secretary Johanns a letter requesting a report on the details of USDA’s investigation and an explanation regarding how the Canadian cattle were allowed to enter commerce.  Fox says they are still awaiting a response to their letter.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 15, 2007

 

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

 

SD Stockgrowers Congratulate Jim Reed, BHSS Agribusiness Person of the Year

photo

 

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) is pleased to say “Congratulations” to Jim Reed, Belle Fourche, S.D., the 2007 Black Hills Stock Show Agribusiness Person of the Year.

 

SDSGA President Rick Fox , Hermosa , S.D. , says that after more than two decades of service to the South Dakota ’s cattle owners, the “Agribusiness Person of the Year” is a well deserved award “Jim’s commitment to the industry, to the ranchers of South Dakota has been phenomenal. His impact on the ag economy has been substantial, when you consider all of the strayed and stolen livestock he’s helped recover.”

 

Past SDSGA President Ken Knuppe , Buffalo Gap, S.D., appreciates Reed’s common sense approach to brand inspecting. “On numerous occasions, I have watched Jim work with both inspectors and producers alike.  His no-nonsense attitude toward solving problems is something that people respect and rely upon.  He is truly a ‘get er done’ type of person who is always striving toward one goal: to return livestock to their rightful owner. 

 

 Knuppe said Reed was an excellent choice for the honor. “Jim has also become a great friend, and, because of his unselfish dedication to the cattle industry, there is no one more deserving of this award than Jim Reed.”

 

SDSGA Executive Director Carrie Stadheim, Rapid City , S.D. , is honored to know Reed as a friend and co-worker. “I first got to know Jim on a professional level, working with him in the Stockgrowers’ office. But Jim quickly became a dear friend to me – he is a loyal friend who is always willing to help, and likes nothing more than to pull a good practical joke on one of his buddies.” According to Stadheim, the Stockgrowers are fortunate to employ Reed as the Chief Brand Inspector. “Jim is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to brands and brand inspection and although I grew up on a ranch where we always branded our cattle, I didn’t realize or understand the intricacies of the brand inspection program. I appreciate all that Jim has taught me personally, and I am grateful too, for all that Jim has done to help the industry. As cattle owners and brand owners, we are all lucky to have Jim in our midst. He just has a knack for tracking livestock – he’s truly the best at what he does.”

 

Reed will be recognized at the Black Hills Stock Show Stockmen’s Banquet and Ball at the Ramkota Convention Center in Rapid City , S.D. , on Wednesday, January 31, 2007. Call the Black Hills Stock Show/Central States Fair office at 605-355-3861 for tickets to the event.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 15, 2007

 

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

 

SD Stockgrowers Invite Everyone to the BHSS Monday Night

 

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) extends a warm welcome to everyone to join them Monday, January 29, 2007 at the Black Hills Stock Show in Rapid City, S.D. for a social and speaker.

 

Bruce Vincent, a former Montana logger will address the crowd at 6:30 pm, in the Civic Center Theater, according to SDSGA President Rick Fox, Hermosa , S.D.   “We hope everyone makes plans to hear Bruce speak Monday night. His story is an interesting one – and his positive attitude is contagious.”

 

According to Fox, Vincent comes from a family of loggers who learned first hand how difficult natural resource harvest can be when dealing with federal government regulations. “A lot of people in Bruce’s shoes would have just gotten mad at the system and given up. But Bruce realized that there is a communication breakdown between the public and “providers” like ranchers, farmers, miners and loggers. He vowed to open up a line of discussion and started the Provider Pals program which helps a large urban elementary class ‘adopt’ a provider like a logger or a rancher. It’s a great way for the kids and teachers in the cities to learn about what we do, and to explain to them that we are helping the environment, not harming it,” said Fox.

 

Fox said that Vincent is an interesting speaker who will entertain the crowd with his stories of conversations with everyone from high level government officials to fourth grade students. “He believes that we can reach everyone – but we won’t accomplish anything if we don’t try. His knowledge of property rights and water rights, along with his desire to educate the public is exciting.”

 

Everyone is invited to join the Stockgrowers for a pre-event social at 5:30 pm in the Civic Center Theatre Lobby – upper level, followed by the speaker at 6:30 in the Theater, said Fox. The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association appreciates sponsors that are helping to make the event possible, including Provider Pals, Fort Dodge Animal Health, Cammack Ranch Supply, Anipro Xtraformance Feeds, Black Hills Regional Multiple Use Coalition, Black Hills Forest Resource Association, S.D. Public Lands Council, Clark Printing, Don Hausle , CFP - The Black Hills Retirement Planning Specialist, Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 12, 2007

For more information contact Carrie Stadheim at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

 

SD Stockgrowers Concerned – Illegal Canadian Cattle Discovered in the U.S.

 

Rapid City ~ The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) hopes USDA will take the necessary steps to remedy a loss of revenue for a South Dakota producer who unknowingly purchased Canadian feeder cattle, says SDSGA President Rick Fox.

 

An independent South Dakota feeder was under the impression, in November of 2006, that he had delivered U.S. cattle to a slaughter plant in Nebraska, but found out differently when the packing plant denied him payment on seven head of the fat cattle, says Fox. “He bought calves in South Dakota, and fed them at home in his feedlot like he always does, so he was pretty surprised when he got a call from the packing plant telling them that seven head out of the load had been condemned because they were of Canadian origin. The offal on the entire load was also condemned, which meant another substantial loss in income. He did not realize that the cattle were from Canada - he had purchased them assuming that they were domestic cattle.”

 

Even though Canadian eartags were identified in the calves, the cattle have not been traced back to any particular farm or ranch in Canada . “Bureaucrats in Washington tell us that the U.S. cattle industry needs an individual animal ID program to allow for fast traceback, but the Stockgrowers believe that tracking of imported cattle should be a higher priority. Unfortunately, it appears that USDA is not keeping track of the cattle being imported from Canada - under USDA’s rules, these calves should never have been allowed to be sold in a South Dakota auction market. The Canadian officials apparently haven’t been able to trace back the movements and origin of the calves, despite the official Canadian tags found in their ears.”

 

Fox says that USDA implemented a rule in 2005 to allow the importation of Canadian feeder cattle under 30 months of age, but only under very strict conditions. “The cattle are supposed to enter the U.S. in sealed trucks and be transported directly to an identified feedlot. They are then to remain in the identified feedlot until they are hauled to a slaughter plant in a sealed truck. The fact that these calves showed up at a salebarn in South Dakota , were allowed to intermingle with U.S. cattle, and were not represented as Canadian cattle, indicates that USDA is not monitoring the very system it created.”

 

“USDA’s mistake has really hit close to home – it has cost a South Dakota producer immensely. The Stockgrowers will keep working with him in hopes of recovering his lost income and preventing this problem from happening again,” said Fox.

 

Fox said that the Stockgrowers have sent a letter to USDA with three requests: 1) a full update regarding the progress of the investigation; 2) an explanation as to the non-compliance that allowed the mistake and; 3) indemnification for the feeder’s financial loss.

 

The South Dakota feeder hopes to recover his lost income and will be cautious about purchasing calves in the future. He also hopes USDA’s investigation will soon reveal whether this was an isolated case, or if herd mates or other calves entered the U.S. and were sold and co-mingled illegally. Fox agrees. “It’s tough to believe that there aren’t more calves that crossed the border with these.”

 

According to Fox, USDA has now proposed a further relaxation of import regulations to allow cattle from Canada that are over 30 months of age. “It is ludicrous that USDA would even consider relaxing the very import rules that they are already having difficulty policing. Before they even think about allowing older Canadian cattle to be imported, I hope they can figure out a monitoring system that works.”

 

Fox said that SDSGA remains in opposition of the original rule to allow “under 30 month” cattle to be imported from Canada , as well as the proposed rule to allow importation of cattle over 30 months. “ Canada has a BSE problem, plain and simple. USDA has placed U.S. producers and the entire industry at risk by allowing Canadian cattle to enter the country; they have further jeopardized our operations by not enforcing their import rules. The thought of relaxing the import regulations now to allow ‘over 30 month’ Canadian cattle to be imported is absolutely irresponsible.”

 

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