Directors and officers of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) hope cattle producers in the Reva area will join them for an Area Meeting on November 19, 2008 at 6:00 pm at the Reva Hall.

The meeting, originally scheduled for November 6, 2008 was postponed because of the blizzard in the area.

Local director Linda Gilbert , Buffalo , S.D. , reminds folks that they don’t need to be a member of the Stockgrowers to attend the meeting and learn the latest about the cattle industry. “We hope that our local members will show up, and as always, we welcome those who are not members too. The USA beef supper will be free to all, thanks to our local sponsors.”

Gilbert said that R-CALF USA Region 3 Director, Johnny Smith, Fort Pierre , S.D. , and former R-CALF USA Director Herman Schumacher, Herreid , S.D. , will visit with the crowd about R-CALF USA and issues affecting the U.S. cattle industry.

Other directors who plan to attend the meeting to visit with ranchers and answer questions about SDSGA include District 6 Director T.W. Schalesky, Faith, S.D., District 6 Director Lester Longwood, Lemmon, S.D., and President Larry Nelson, Buffalo, S.D. and Executive Director Margaret Nachtigall, Owanka, S.D.

The Stockgrowers appreciate local sponsors who helped make the meeting possible, including: Buffalo Hardware and Lumber; Cenex of Buffalo; Farmers Union & Erk Services, Buffalo; Gilbert Angus, Buffalo; Henderson Oil, Buffalo; Niemi Ranch Beef, Buffalo; Pioneer Bank & Trust, Buffalo; Reva Store, Reva; Sodak Angus, Sorum.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 4, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Post Brand Questionnaire on Website

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) encourages all livestock owners in South Dakota to respond to the brand program questionnaire released by the brand program evaluation committee.

According to SDSGA’s committee representative, Don Hausle, Rapid City , S.D. , any person who uses the South Dakota brand program (cattle producers, brand owners, horse owners, brand inspectors and others) is encouraged to fill out the questionnaire in order for the committee to evaluate the effectiveness of the brand inspection program. “The committee, made up of every ag organization in the state, plus a state senator, representative, county commissioner and others, will review the responses and then take steps to respond appropriately.” That might mean suggesting changes to the brand program, or simply continuing with the status quo, said Hausle, depending upon responders’ issues of concern. “Maybe everyone is fully satisfied with the brand inspection, brand recording and brand investigations in this state. If that is the case, we need to know. If people have concerns or suggestions we need to know about them, too, so we can make an attempt to improve the system,” said Hausle.

According to Hausle, the questions can be found at www.southdakotastockgrowers.org or on member e-mails sent to SDSGA members or from any other member of the evaluation committee. For a complete list of committee members or for any other questions regarding the committee, please contact Don Hausle at 605-391-4726.

Currently the S.D. Brand Board, appointed by the governor, oversees all facets of the brand program, said Hausle.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 21, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

SD Stockgrowers Thank State Officials for Suit against JBS and National Beef

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) was thrilled to learn that S.D. Attorney General Larry Long took the initiative to help protect U.S. cattle markets by joining the U.S. Justice Department and other states to file suit to stop the merger of JBS and National Beef Packing Company. The plaintiffs say the merger would negatively affect prices for consumers of beef as well as for producers and feeders who sell live cattle.

The Stockgrowers also appreciate Senators Tim Johnson (D-SD), John Thune (R-SD) and Representative Stephanie Herseth Sandlin (D-SD) for hearing the Stockgrowers’ concerns and then taking action to voice their apprehension about the proposed merger.

According to SDSGA Vice President Kenny Fox , Belvidere , S.D. , JBS, a Brazilian owned packing company has proposed to buy out National Beef Packing Company, the nation’s fourth largest packing company. The U.S. Justice Department and thirteen state attorneys general, representing states impacted heavily by the live cattle market filed suit against both companies saying the merger with National Beef wouldn’t be good for U.S. consumers, farmers or ranchers. JBS also plans to buy Smithfield Foods, another major U.S. packer. “While it is disappointing that the Smithfield acquisition will still go through as planned, it is gratifying to know that our attorney general has heard the concerns of our Congressional Delegation and Stockgrower members and taken action against part of the proposed merger.”

“ South Dakota producers are fortunate that our congressional delegates and attorney general are receptive to the needs of the cattle producers. South Dakota continues to lead the way in promoting and protecting the independent cattle industry that is so vital to our state’s economy,” said Fox.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 21, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

SD Stockgrowers Help Protect Market – JBS Merger Questioned by Fed and States

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) is proud to have played an integral role in the suit filed to stop JBS’s acquisition of National Beef Company.

According to SDSGA President Larry Nelson, Buffalo , S.D. , the Stockgrowers have continually voiced their concerns about the buyout to the S.D. attorney general, the S.D. congressional delegation as well as the U.S. Justice Department. “It is exciting to see that we are making a difference,” said Nelson.

Nelson explains that the U.S. Justice Department and attorneys general from 13 states including South Dakota have challenged JBS over its buyout of National Beef Packing Co., saying the move by one of the world's largest beef producers would hurt U.S. farmers and consumers. “The Stockgrowers strongly oppose any activity that will damage competition in the cattle market. Clearly the merger between two of the world’s largest beef packing companies will negatively impact a market already suffering from very little competition. The merging of two more major packers will be just one more step in industrializing and vertically integrating the cattle industry until we are no different than the poultry or hog industries which both suffer from nearly zero competition for live animals. Our members, along with R-CALF members across the country, have been asking for just this type of intervention and are thrilled to learn that a lawsuit has been filed by our Justice Department along with 13 key agricultural states to stop the merger.”

“We know this issue is far from being resolved. Both JBS and National Beef plan to fight the lawsuit, so the Stockgrowers plan to remain diligent in the fight to stop this merger. We expect our attorney general and Justice Department to stay in the battle with us,” said Nelson.

JBS, a Brazilian meatpacking company also plans to purchase Smithfield and unfortunately will not be challenged by the Justice Department or state attorney generals on that acquisition, said Nelson. Brazil is the world’s largest exporter of beef.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 21, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

SD Stockgrowers Host 60 at Wall Meeting

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) welcomed local cattle producers, feeders and others to Wall, S.D., October 16, 2008, for an Area Meeting.

Three speakers representing R-CALF USA addressed the crowd at the Community Center.

Past R-CALF USA board member Herman Schumacher, Herreid , S.D. , Region 3 director Johnny Smith, Fort Pierre , S.D. , and David Hutchins, West Mansfield , Ohio , Director of Region 8 each discussed R-CALF’s recent activities.

According to SDSGA Region 3 Vice President, Marvin Jobgen , Scenic, S.D., all of the speakers provided some insight into issues that R-CALF has been involved in lately. “Johnny’s speech was especially informative and interesting. He shared about R-CALF’s business and some of the inner workings of the office staff and such,” said Jobgen.

In an R-CALF news release sent last week, CEO Bill Bullard stated that “the R-CALF USA Board of Directors voted to dismiss its lawsuit filed in May 2007 against three former directors of the organization. The lawsuit alleged that the former directors had breached their fiduciary duty and violated Montana ’s Trade Secrets Act.”

Also according to the news release, the current R-CALF USA directors sought settlement and mediation but were denied both by the past directors.

Jobgen said that Smith and the other speakers covered this topic and answered questions from the audience.

“It is clear that R-CALF USA is continuing down the same road they have taken since the beginning – one that is focused on ensuring the continued profitability and viability of independent US cattle producers,” said Jobgen.

Jobgen said the locally grown and processed beef meal served by the Red Rock restaurant was delicious.

He said the Stockgrowers appreciate the sponsors that helped make the meal possible: Cheyenne Charolais, Wasta; Dakota Mill and Grain, Wall; First Western Bank, Wall; Johnson’s Ranchers’ Supply, Wall; Spear U Angus, Wall; Todd Trask family Angus, Wasta; Wall Chamber of Commerce and Wall Drug.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 3, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

SD Stockgrowers Cheer COOL Implementation

After years of delays, the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) is thrilled that Country of Origin Labeling has finally become a reality.

“It isn’t going to be perfect right away, but nothing is,” said SDSGA President Larry Nelson , Buffalo, S.D. “It will be a work in progress for a few months, but we are just glad to have something to work on, to learn what needs to be done to make improvements, and move forward with those improvements.”

“We appreciate USDA’s willingness to allow an affidavit system to certify cattle as USA born and raised. Clearly the more simple and straightforward the process is for producers, the more accurate producers will be able to be,” said Nelson. “A long, complicated paperwork system or the requirement of a bunch of expensive tags or devices would just open the door to corruption and cutting corners.”

The Stockgrowers now more than ever, urge consumers to ask their grocers for USA beef. “Finally we can tell our ‘city cousins’ to look for USA beef at their local markets,” said Nelson. “If they don’t find it, we encourage them to ask for it. We expect a transition period these next few months, so all grocery stores might not have labels right away, but the more questions they get from their customers, the more quickly they will want to start labeling their products.”

Nelson said the Stockgrowers, along with R-CALF USA , hope that USDA will issue a correction to their rules that will eliminate a problem area that will allow for mislabeling at the meat counter. According to R-CALF USA CEO, Bill Bullard, “USDA has provided a loophole to meatpackers, which allows them to label USA beef with a North American label, such as ‘Product of the U.S., Canada, and Mexico,’ so long as one or more imported animals go through a packer’s daily production run. We will fix this problem, but with consumers’ help, we’ll fix it sooner.”

“We strongly encourage consumers to insist on a specific ‘country’ label for beef, not a broad one that encompasses all of North America ,” said Nelson. “That obviously goes against the intent of the thousands of producers and consumers who lobbied long and hard for Country of Origin Labeling.”

According to Nelson, the Stockgrowers submitted comments to USDA regarding the latest published regulations, and they will continue their efforts to ensure that Country of Origin Labeling is fully implemented in a simple and effective way that benefits consumers and producers.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 19, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

SD Stockgrowers Host Dynamite Convention

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) again hosted one of the area’s best cattle industry events; the Annual Convention was held September 11-12, 2008, in Rapid City , S.D.

President Larry Nelson , Buffalo , S.D. , and Vice President Kenny Fox , Belvidere , SD. , were both unanimously re-elected for a second one-year term. According to the organization by-laws, this will be the final year for Nelson and Fox to hold those positions, as the president and vice president may serve a maximum of two one-year terms.

Meeting-goers had the chance to hear William Perry Pendley, property rights attorney with the Mountain States Legal Foundation, Lakewood, Colo., Montana rancher Maxine Korman; property rights attorney Fred Kelly Grant, Nampa, Idaho; local rancher and cattle buyer Howard Huxtable; Missouri cattle producer Ray Cunio; Assistant Director, Food and Water Watch, Patty Lovera, Washington, DC; Organization for Competitive Markets legal counsel Michael Stumo; S.D. Beef Industry Council Director Barry Jennings; Meade County Director of Equalization Kirk Chafee; Pete Gober, U.S. Fish and Wildlife; Bob Paulson, Nature Conservancy; local rancher Joe Logue and many more at the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn.

Nelson commended the committee chairmen and SDSGA Executive Director Margaret Nachtigall for lining up exceptional committee speakers. “The caliber of our committee speakers was unbeatable – William Perry Pendley and Fred Kelly Grant, just to name a couple, are nationally renowned speakers and have been friends of the independent cattle industry for years.” Nelson said they aren’t professional speakers, but are “movers and shakers” in the property rights realm.

Nelson said two interesting and informative committee meetings he attended were the Property Rights Committee, with Grant as the speaker and the Ag and Natural Resources Committee who heard from Korman.

“Maxine spoke about chains of title to property and urged individuals purchasing property to conduct research about the history of the many rights tied to that property, including water rights, mineral rights, surface rights and so on. She said that even though it is common practice to purchase title insurance against unknown encumbrances, it is best to find out before purchasing the property what rights have been sold or leased and to whom. Although this research can be time consuming, it is worthwhile,” said Nelson.

“Fred Kelly Grant talked about the importance of local governments and individuals exercising their rights when it comes to federal and state projects and actions in their communities.” Nelson said that Grant had recently spent time in Texas with several counties that were facing encroachment of the intrusive so-called NAFTA Superhighway. “He said that those counties, through good planning and persistence have either slowed or stopped the progression of the highway. Mr. Grant gives rural people hope that we can have a say in the future of our homes and communities. That instead of just accepting whatever is thrown at us, we have the right to insist state and federal government bureaucracies modify their plans to fit our needs and wants.”

Fox also enjoyed hearing Grant and said one important point made during his presentation was for counties to use the term “coordinate” rather than “cooperate” when they are preparing county plans to deal with the federal government.

According to Fox, Ray Cunio was another exceptional speaker. “Ray has led the fight against the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) and was successful in working with others in Missouri to pass legislation to protect producers from NAIS.”

Fox said he was thrilled to see the generosity of Stockgrower members during fundraising auctions to support a lobbyist. “I was pleasantly surprised and pleased with the support from our members who donated their hard-earned money for this important and necessary cause. I especially appreciate Brent Fox for coming up with the idea of a slave auction as one of the fund raisers and all of the young folks who donated their services.”

According to Fox, the members voted to give the youth who donated their time for the slave auction a free SDSGA membership for one year.

Over $7,000 was raised in two fundraising auctions to fund a lobbyist for the 2009 legislative session, said Fox.

New policies dealing with genetically modified alfalfa, personal rights and others were adopted during the membership meeting. The members also chose to renew their affiliation with R-CALF USA. For a copy of the SDSGA 2008-2009 policy, please contact the office at 605-342-0429.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 28, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

Everyone Invited: South Dakota Stockgrowers 2008 Annual Convention

Speakers to include William Perry Pendley, Fred Kelly Grant and Randy Stevenson

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) urges everyone to make plans to join them for their Annual Convention in Rapid City , S.D. , September 11-12, 2008.

“We invite everyone to attend; you certainly don’t have to be a member to take part in our meetings,” said SDSGA Vice President Kenny Fox, Belvidere, S.D. “We’re proud to once again serve 100% USA born, raised and slaughtered beef for each meal.”

Fox says the Stockgrowers have lined up another exceptional meeting with well-known speakers as well as recognition of several long standing brand inspectors and a former Brand Board member. The meetings, meals and events will be held at the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn.

Fox said that the Wildlife Committee meeting will kick things off at 8:00 am Thursday morning with speakers Bob Paulson, Nature Conservancy and Joe Logue, a rancher from the Oelrichs, S.D., area. At 9:30 am, the Trade Committee will hear from Patty Lovera, Assistant Director of Food and Water Watch, Washington , DC . Then at 10:30 am, William Perry Pendley, Mountain States Legal Foundation, will address the Federal Lands Committee. After the opening lunch, Barry Jennings, Executive Director of the S.D. Beef Industry Council will speak, then an ice cream social sponsored by S.D.S.U. will give folks a chance to mingle and view the trade show.

The Ag and Natural Resources Committee at 2:00 pm will feature Maxine Korman, a Hinsdale, Mont. , rancher. Then renowned property rights attorney and president of Stewards of the Range, Fred Kelly Grant will speak before the Property Rights Committee at 3:30 pm.

Fox said nobody will want to miss the dinner that evening, which features Michael Stumo, General Counsel for the Organization for Competitive Markets.

SDSGA President Larry Nelson, Buffalo , S.D. , said that Friday promises to be as information – packed and interesting as the first day of the convention. Bright and early Friday morning, Pastor Ed Coates will speak at the 7:00 am Inspirational Breakfast. The Education/Taxation/Legislation Committee will gather at 8:30 am to hear from Meade County Director of Equalization, Kirk Chaffee. Ray Cunio, a Missouri cattle producer will address the Animal Health and Animal ID Committees at 10:00 am, then at 11:00 am, Howard Huxtable, a local rancher and cattle buyer will talk to the Marketing Committee.

R-CALF USA Region 2 Director, Randy Stevenson, Wheatland , Wyo. , is scheduled to speak after lunch, which will be followed by the announcement of the silent auction high bidders.

Nelson said that the Brand and Theft Committee will gather at 1:30 pm for an update on the brand inspection program, then he urges everyone to join the Stockgrowers for their General Membership Meeting at 3:00 pm. They will elect officers and vote on policy for the upcoming year.

According to Nelson, a 6:00 pm social hour is followed by a banquet at 7:00 pm where three brand inspectors and one past brand board member will be honored. Jim Owen, Austin Capital Management and Center for Cowboy Ethics will be the featured speaker. Finally a live auction will be held to help fund the SDSGA lobbyist fund.

Nelson said that all SDSGA members are welcome to join the Board of Directors for the Quarterly meeting on Saturday morning at 8:00 am.

For more information, Nelson said to call the SDSGA office at 605-342-0429. To reserve a room at the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn, call 605-348-4000. Be sure to mention the Stockgrowers for a reduced rate.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 12, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Contribute to Historic Trail Ride

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) was pleased with the opportunity to support the legendary Fort Pierre to Deadwood Trail Ride by sponsoring vests for the outriders.

According to SDSGA Vice President Kenny Fox , Belvidere , S.D. , it was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be involved in the extraordinary occasion. “We decided several months ago that we wanted the Stockgrowers Association to participate somehow in the trail ride, and we decided we’d do that by helping to sponsor outriders’ vests.”

SDSGA Executive Director Margaret Nachtigall, Rapid City , S.D. , took an active role in the trail ride – joining Gaylord and Roy Norman from Hays, S.D., for an “enjoyable visit and ride in their wagon.” She said it was startling to see the prairie through the eyes of an early settler. “I don’t believe one can fully understand what those pioneer folks went through on that trek out west until you have traveled that trail in a wagon even if it’s only a day. And then you only have a glimpse of their life on that ride. I have ridden horseback many times in that country, but somehow the feeling as you cross the prairie in a wagon is very different. I of course thought of the young mothers with their babies and the ones who were born on the trail.

These folks were truly strong and brave people.”

Nachtigall said she couldn’t help but notice many of the introduced grasses that are familiar to today’s agriculturists – tall brome and crested wheat, that wouldn’t have been present 100 years ago. “I wonder what the rangeland looked like with only native grasses and shrubs,” she said.

The trail ride, which began on July 30 in Fort Pierre, S.D., is following the 240 mile route of the historic wagon trains that traveled to Deadwood, S.D., many in search of gold. This year marks the 100 year anniversary of the closure of the wagon trail.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 17, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Support Foot and Mouth Legislation in the House

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) commends Congresswoman Stephanie Herseth-Sandlin’s for taking a leading role in helping prevent the introduction of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) into U.S. cattle herds. Herseth-Sandlin, along with Congresswoman Barbara Cubin (R-WY) introduced the bipartisan legislation yesterday titled the Foot and Mouth Disease Prevention Act of 2008.

According to SDSGA Vice President Kenny Fox, Belvidere , S.D. , USDA is considering a plan to allow importation of beef from select regions in Argentina , even though the country is not a FMD-free nation. “USDA is jumping the gun. Argentina has not been declared FMD-free, in fact USDA has not even assessed the country’s FMD status since a 2006 outbreak. It is not prudent to allow importation of beef or live cattle from a country known to have a devastating disease like FMD.”

Fox says that FMD could wreak havoc on the U.S. cattle herd. “Foot and Mouth Disease is a very contagious disease, and would be devastating to this country. There is absolutely no reason to take any chance of exposing our livestock herds to this disease. It is always better to prevent the introduction of a disease than to try and deal with it once it’s here.”

The Stockgrowers are encouraged to learn that Congresswoman Herseth-Sandlin shares their concern for the health of the U.S. cattle herd. “We really appreciate our Congresswoman for taking the initiative to introduce this legislation to try and prevent the so-called ‘regionalization’ of Argentina that USDA has considered. We agree with Congresswoman Herseth-Sandlin and the other supporters of the legislation that Argentina should not be allowed to send us beef or cattle until they are FMD-free without vaccination.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 9, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Join Beefman to Promote USA Beef Across the Nation

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) is thrilled to join Beefman Tom Connelley, Belle Fourche, S.D., in the first ever National Day of the American Cowboy “Cowboy Capitol Challenge.”

A friendly competition between Stephenville , Texas and Oakdale , Calif. , who both claim to be “Cowboy Capitol of the Nation,” will include a contest in which each town sells raffle tickets on one-half of a USA-raised beef.

Connelley, with the help of sponsors including SDSGA, will donate one-half of a cornfed, USA-raised beef to each town, and the town that sells the most ten dollar raffle tickets will be declared the Cowboy Capitol of the Nation for one year.

According to SDSGA Executive Director, Margaret Nachtigall, Rapid City , S.D. , “The monetary benefit from the beef raffle will go to the respective towns, but the promotional benefit for beef will go to all producers.”

Past SDSGA President Rick Fox, Hermosa , S.D. , is excited about the chance to promote USA-raised beef in two large cities. “I’m proud to be part of an organization that supports USA Beef and is interested in reaching consumers in large numbers. What an innovative way to get beef-eaters thinking about the origin of their beef!” Fox says that while he is disappointed that the Beef Checkoff is unable to promote USA Beef, he appreciates Beefman and the Stockgrowers Board of Directors for taking the opportunity to do it. “Advertising just plain ‘beef’ doesn’t necessarily help the U.S. producer because imported beef is so readily available. Consumers have to realize the benefits of USA-raised beef, and select it at the meat counter, in order for the ‘trickle down’ to benefit me as a U.S. producer. Since Country of Origin Labeling will be readily available beginning in October, we want consumers to start thinking about USA-raised beef, and asking for it.” He compares it to the automobile industry. “You never see any of the car-makers like Ford or Chevy paying for ads that tell consumers to ‘buy a car.’ That would be foolish. They promote their own product and that is what we are trying to do by advertising USA-raised beef.”

Connelley sees this contest as an opportunity to promote the positive benefits of USA-raised beef. “The media has had their day of negative beef coverage. I want to promote the true story about how U.S. ranchers care for their cattle and produce the safest beef in the world, USA beef.”

The contest will be promoted via radio, print and television. American Cowboy magazine will feature the contest, which ends July 26, 2008, the National Day of the American Cowboy.

Please see the following links to vote on the contest and to buy a chance on half a beef to be shipped from Beefman to the raffle winner.

www.southdakotabeefman.com

www.stephenvilletexas.org

www.oakdalecowboymuseum.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 30, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Done with Brand Inspection Contract

As of today, the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) will no longer oversee the brand inspection program for the state of South Dakota . The S.D. Brand Board chose not to renew the contract with the Stockgrowers, and will take over brand inspection duties as of tomorrow, says SDSGA Vice President Kenny Fox , Belvidere , S.D.

“The Brand Board has not contacted us to tell us who they have hired as inspectors. Livestock owners should contact the Brand Board in order to line up a brand inspector or call the Governor’s office for any questions or concerns they might have,” he said. Fox said the phone number to the Brand Board office is: 605-773-3324 and the phone number to the Governor’s office is: 605-773-3212.

SDSGA President Larry Nelson said the Stockgrowers are grateful to Jim Reed who has dedicated 16 years to the cattle industry as South Dakota ’s Chief Brand Inspector, and spent many more years as a full time brand inspector in various towns. They also appreciate Brand Inspection Administrative Assistant Cathy Banning who has spent 18 years overseeing the office. “I don’t know of a more conscientious and diligent pair than those two. They work like a well-oiled machine…recording and filing brand inspection data, managing brand inspectors across the state and finding rightful owners for livestock holds. I credit those two individuals greatly for the success this brand inspection program has enjoyed these past sixteen plus years. They are the type of people that often go unnoticed because they do their jobs so efficiently and quietly. They will leave some large shoes to fill.”

Additionally, Nelson said the Stockgrowers appreciate all of the other brand inspectors who have served the industry. “This program would not have been successful without the full time inspectors or the many, many local and part time inspectors and shippers’ agents. Many of these folks were basically donating their time and resources in an effort to make sure that the brand inspection program worked.”

Former Brand Board member Lyndell Peterson, Hermosa , S.D. , is another individual who deserves recognition, says Nelson. “Lyndell recently resigned from the Brand Board because he didn’t agree with their takeover of the inspection program. But he has spent the last three years or more trying to ensure that the Brand Board will carry out their legal responsibilities in a sensible manner. He has always been an ally to the cattle industry, but as a member of the Brand Board he went above and beyond in an effort to bring a common sense point of view to their meetings.”

Fox said that the other brand board members stated that they didn’t agree with the Stockgrowers’ politics, and didn’t like the fact that the Stockgrowers were spending their profit from the brand inspection program to further their political agenda. “They might not have agreed with our stance on political issues, but that was a poor reason to not renew the contract. We were entitled to use our profits in any way we chose. We earned that money honestly, carrying out a contract that both sides agreed to.” Besides that, Fox said that the Stockgrowers are the largest cattle organization in the state, which indicates that their political positions are widely supported. “We stand strong on important issues for independent producers – I don’t believe there are very many ranchers or farmers in South Dakota who disagree with our politics.” Fox said a handful of the issues they’ve worked on recently include: Country of Origin Labeling, property rights – helping with a lawsuit against state because the state would not carry out their duties of controlling prairie dogs, also standing up for property owners on the non-meandering lakes issue that affected Northeastern South Dakota; opposing the eminent domain law (SB 174); opposing the National Animal Identification System (NAIS); continually fighting to keep the border closed to Canadian cattle after Canada’s BSE problem was exposed; helping inform people of the hunting lockout; and supporting open fields legislation.

“Our political agenda will not change and the Stockgrowers will not slow down our efforts to better the cattle industry. With or without the brand inspection contract, we will represent producers on local, state and national cattle industry issues just the same as always,” said Fox.

Signatures gathered across the state indicate very strong support for the Stockgrowers’ continued administration of the brand inspection program, said Fox. “Over 1,200 brand owners signed their names in favor of the Stockgrowers, while just 2 brand owners said they would prefer that the Stockgrowers didn’t run the program.” Those are some pretty strong statistics. And they aren’t just Stockgrower members – they are brand owners across the state.

Fox also mentioned that the Brand Board, after publicly scolding the Stockgrowers and their inspectors, is now planning to operate the brand inspection program using most of the same inspectors and will be basing their budget on the Stockgrowers’ old budget. “How ironic that the inspectors who, a few years ago were accused by the state of all sorts of wrongdoing are now mostly the same inspectors who the state asked to work for them. We defended our inspectors from day one, as we believed they were doing their jobs to the best of their abilities, plus we had always reprimanded any of our employees who had intentionally done anything wrong,” said Fox. “And another major complaint we’ve heard from this brand board is that we didn’t budget our income and expenses appropriately, but now that they will be running the program, they are using our budget as a basis for the coming year’s finances. It just proves how baseless their complaints, accusations and implications have been all along.”

“I hope that producers who have problems or concerns will contact the state Brand Board, the governor’s office or their legislators and tell them what they believe is the problem, and how they’d like to see it fixed. We as producers are the owners and financiers of this program, and it is our responsibility, as an industry, to ensure that it remains successful,” Fox said.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 18, 2008

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

SD Stockgrowers Discuss Important Issues at Howard Meeting

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) hosted another information-packed Quarterly Membership Meeting in Howard , S.D. , on June 12, 2008, followed by a Board of Directors meeting the next morning.

We heard from a lot of good speakers,” said SDSGA Executive Director Margaret Nachtigall, Rapid City , S.D. “We appreciate several local businessmen and agency representatives who spoke on various subjects dealing with the cattle industry.”

Nachtigall said one highlight of the meeting was a tour of Dakota Beef, an organic beef processing plant. “It was fascinating to find out how they raise organic cattle and process organic beef. It sounds like they are running a very successful business.”

According to SDSGA Vice President Kenny Fox , Belvidere , S.D. , Dusty Johnson, PUC gave a good presentation about crude oil pipeline easements. “If anyone has had problems with these companies or are being approached by a company who wants an easement I would strongly urge them to contact Dusty Johnson at the PUC office in Pierre to find out what their getting into,” he said.

Discussions about the brand inspection contract consumed the majority of the meeting, said Nachtigall. “At the present time, the future of the brand inspection program is the most pressing issue for the Stockgrowers, and for producers in the brand inspection area.”

Nachtigall was impressed with the optimistic attitude and pioneer spirit of the people in Howard. “The town of Howard and the community surrounding it are full of forward-thinking folks. It was fun to spend some time there to see what they are doing to make a small town thrive.”

According to Nachtigall, several sponsors helped make their meeting possible. Dakota Beef, Howard; Dakota Grills, Lake Preston; Energy Maintenance Service, Howard; Farm Credit Services of America; Farmers & Merchants State Bank, Carthage; Howard Cold Storage; Howard Farmers Coop Association; Miner County Bank of Howard & Canova; Rural Learning Center, Howard contributed to the success of the meeting, she said. “ Joan Kazmerzak , our District 17 director, along with the sponsors, are truly responsible for the superb organization of the meeting, the delicious food and the great atmosphere. We appreciate Joan and all of our sponsors for all of their help.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 4, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Contract Proposals Denied; S.D. Brand Board to Take over Program Soon

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) offered three different brand inspection contracts to the S.D. Brand Board, but all were rejected, says SDSGA President Larry Nelson, Buffalo , S.D.

“The Stockgrowers have managed brand inspection for over 100 years and it’s always been our goal to provide a quality service at a reasonable price. We had hoped that this could continue, in order that producers could continue to depend on an efficient and effective program at the lowest cost possible. The Brand Board denied the three different proposals we suggested and have instead decided to manage the inspection program in-house. So now it is up to them to provide a system that works on the ground, without overcharging the very people who fund the program – cattle producers,” said Nelson.

According to Nelson, the Stockgrowers made significant steps to try and appease the Brand Board. “We offered to lower the administration fee by 25% while at the same time giving all of our full time inspectors a raise. In this day and age, I’d like to see another contractor who is willing to lower their administrative fee that substantially.”

Additionally, Nelson said that the Brand Board wanted the Stockgrowers to transfer inspection data to the Brand Board on a regular basis, and make significant changes in the hold reporting process. “We were willing to make concessions on all of these areas. We discussed ways to make it work for them and for us – we made an effort to move their direction on all of their major issues.” But Nelson says the Brand Board was not so willing to budge, and refused that proposal.

Nelson said the Stockgrowers’ final proposal was to revert back to the contract they’ve operated under for decades – a more risky but simple way of handling the program. “We offered to run the program for eighty cents - the current brand inspection fee. We would accept the losses, if there were any, and any profit would be ours as well. This would have relieved the Brand Board from any financial responsibility, while maintaining the $.80 inspection fee – a win-win for producers and the Brand Board.”

According to Nelson, the Brand Board rejected all proposals and is now discussing raising the fee by almost 20% in order to keep the program in the black.

SDSGA Past President Bill Hutchinson, White River , S.D. , said at one point, the Brand Board mentioned a two percent implementation fee for the Stockgrowers. “We don’t think anyone out there is going to run this program for nothing, and two percent is practically nothing. It is a little hard to keep a straight face when you are sitting across the table from a lawyer holding a seat on the Brand Board, telling you that two percent profit is plenty.”

Hutchinson said he’s frustrated with the situation because the Stockgrowers have never heard an outcry from the public. “The people who fund and use the inspection program – cattle producers – don’t have any major complaints about the way things were being done. I don’t understand how or why the Brand Board would take such drastic steps and risk ruining such a successful program when there are no real problems with the current system.”

As a brand inspector and a cattle producer, Hutchinson says his main concern is to maintain a good working inspection program. “I just don’t think that a Brand Board-run inspection program will benefit producers, but I guess I’ll just have to wait and see.”

SDSGA Past President Rick Fox, Hermosa , S.D. , says that taxpayer money has never been needed to keep the brand inspection program going. “The Stockgrowers have always managed the program in such a way that the inspection fee paid by producers has been enough to keep the program afloat. And yet those very producers have had very little opportunity to provide input into this situation. It should really be up to producers to determine the future of brand inspection.”

Kenny Fox, Belvidere , S.D. , who serves as the Stockgrowers’ Vice President agrees. “The producers should have a say. The feasibility study that the Brand Board funded suggests that a survey of producers should be conducted. I agree – producers fund and use this program and they should have some input.”

The current contract expires July 1, 2008, which will be the S.D. Brand Board’s first day of carrying out the brand inspection program.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 23, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Applaud S.D. FFA Members, No NAIS Promotion

Members of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) were pleased to learn that the S.D. FFA Association will not be promoting the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Former Newell FFA Chapter President Brett Burke, Newell , S.D. , brought two resolutions to the S.D. FFA Convention that aimed to keep the S.D. FFA Association from taking part in the promotional agreement made in the summer of 2007 between the USDA and the National FFA Organization. “The biggest issue here is the fact that the National FFA Organization is showing support for a very controversial political issue. I don’t believe that the National FFA organization should take a stand on political matters. The resolutions don’t support or oppose NAIS, but they clarify that we, as a state organization choose not to participate in the cooperative agreement to promote NAIS. We also will not require FFA members to have a premises number in order to show livestock,” he said.

Burke, who lives on a cattle and sheep ranch in the Newell area, said there was quite a bit of discussion about the resolutions before the meeting, but the meeting itself, held April 14, 2008, on the SDSU campus, Brookings, S.D., wasn’t as heated as he had expected. “It went well. There were a lot of questions and some concern about us, as a state organization taking a negative stand on a political issue, but when we explained that by not participating we would actually be taking a neutral stance, it cleared up most of the questions people had,” he said.

The first resolution states: Now, therefore, be it resolved the South Dakota FFA Association chooses not to participate in the cooperative agreement with the United States Department of Agriculture and the National FFA Organization in the promotion of premises registration and the National Animal Identification System.

And be it further resolved that the South Dakota FFA Association encourages other state associations to evaluate the merits of the FFA promotional campaign of the National Animal Identification System and Premises Registration.

The second resolution is as follows: Now therefore, be it resolved that no member will be prevented from participating in FFA events for lack of premises ID or RFID tags if the member is able to show proof of ownership, and the livestock have been properly health inspected.

Both resolutions were approved by a majority voice vote. Burke said the matter will not be ratified until September when the Executive Committee will vote on it. “I plan to be at the meeting to answer any questions that might come up,” said Burke.

According to USDA Undersecretary Bruce Knight , Washington , D.C., USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) granted the National FFA Organization $640,000 to promote the NAIS. “With the agreement we’re signing today, FFA has pledged to help us encourage farmers and ranchers to take that first step and register their premises. The FFA National Organization will be developing instructional materials, conducting outreach and signing producers up,” said Knight in a speech last June.

Knight went on to say that the goal of the National FFA Organization was to “obtain 50,000 registrations over the one-year agreement.”

He added, “We’ll soon be signing additional agreements with other organizations. In fact, because we think these partnership efforts will be effective in reaching producers and encouraging them to participate in NAIS, we have set aside up to $6 million to fund similar agreements.”

SDSGA Region 1 Vice President Bill Kluck, Mud Butte, S.D., said he appreciates the fact that young people like the Newell FFA students realize that a basic understanding of political issues is important for ag producers, but that youth organizations shouldn’t be promoting political issues. Instead, Kluck said, all views should be equally presented so that students can make independent decisions to support or oppose political issues.

“The Stockgrowers are proud of Brett, the Newell FFA Chapter and all South Dakota FFA students for taking a stand. South Dakota has always been a leader in agriculture, and today’s FFA students are no exception. I hope South Dakota FFA members are successful in their efforts to convince other state FFA organizations to follow suit.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 23, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Applaud S.D. FFA Members, No NAIS Promotion

Knight went on to say that the goal of the National FFA Organization was to “obtain 50,000 registrations over the one-year agreement.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 15, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Tell USDA: Animal ID and COOL are Separate Issues

In their comments to USDA yesterday about the Business Plan for the National Animal Identification System (NAIS), the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) urged USDA not to tie the NAIS to Country of Origin Labeling (COOL).

Among other issues they discussed, SDSGA said that NAIS is an unpopular program among producers, while COOL is a very popular law. “USDA proposes a ‘marriage’ of NAIS and COOL but clearly the goals and purposes of the two programs are totally different. The two should be kept totally separate from one another,” said SDSGA President Larry Nelson, Buffalo , S.D. , in their comments.

SDSGA commented on several additional concerns. “SDSGA strongly urges USDA to protect the U.S. cattle herd from disease outbreaks by strengthening import standards,” Nelson stated in their comments. “There is no reason to risk exposing our cattle herd to known or unknown disease from other countries. NAIS will not prevent or even slow the introduction or spread of disease from imported livestock.”

Nelson also requested a cost-benefit study. “SDSGA believes that before any further taxpayer dollars are spent on advancing NAIS, a cost-benefit analysis should be conducted to determine whether the benefits would actually outweigh the costs.”

The Stockgrowers believe current tracking systems work just as well as the proposed NAIS, especially considering the cost difference. “What disease warrants the need for NAIS? By USDA’s own admission, past and current disease eradication programs work. We don’t believe the NAIS will be any more effective in tracking disease than current methods of IDing and tracking animals. Especially at the proposed cost of NAIS – including the amount of money already spent. Aren’t we getting the cart before the horse?”

Nelson said please contact SDSGA at 605-342-0429 to see the full comment.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 7, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

SD Stockgrowers Speak Out at Animal ID Conference

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) and R-CALF USA were once again represented by SDSGA members at the National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) conference held this year in Indianapolis , Ind. , April 2-4, 2008.

SDSGA Vice President and R-CALF USA Animal ID Committee Chairman Kenny Fox, Belvidere, S.D., and SDSGA Animal ID Committee Chairman Bill Kluck, Mud Butte, S.D., represented independent cattle producers by asking pertinent questions of program presenters.

“The main theme of the meeting seemed to be for the bureaucrats and technology peddlers to convince the industry to support combining National Animal Identification System (NAIS) and the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) law, said Fox. “The COOL law forbids the use of mandatory animal identification because it is not necessary for carrying out the law. USDA now suggests that a voluntary NAIS should be tied together with COOL. This is nothing more than a ploy. USDA has realized that COOL is a very popular law, while NAIS is a very unpopular program. They are two very different issues. NAIS is an international government tracking system only for domestic live animals while COOL is a marketing tool that would provide consumers with information about imported and domestic meat and livestock.”

USDA is desperate to obtain premises registration from independent producers across the country, said Fox. “Don't be fooled by this back-door attempt to get your premises (property) registered with the government.” Fox said that SDSGA and R-CALF support producers’ right to make independent choices. “If a producer wants to register his premises with the government, he should certainly do so, but we shouldn’t be forced into it. That isn’t the American way.”

Fox said conference participants did not reach a consensus in support of marrying the two issues.

Fox said USDA is also working to compel private companies with source and age verification programs to require premise registration. “USDA claims that they want an animal id program that is ‘voluntary’ but how can they call it voluntary when they want to force producers to sign up for a government premise registration number in order to utilize private animal identification programs?”

Additional issues that surfaced at the conference raise concern for western ranchers. “USDA representatives told us that group lot identification of sheep would be allowed, but not cattle. I told them that seems totally illogical, and explained that cattle, just like sheep, are owned and sold in large numbers – usually by the pot load.” Fox said that auction market operators and producers are also concerned that NAIS will slow commerce in auction barns, especially in the west where cattle are sold by the truckload.

Any government tracking system will be futile unless wildlife diseases are also addressed, said Fox. “A speaker from the Michigan Department of Agriculture talked about their efforts to eradicate tuberculosis (TB) through a mandatory state animal ID program and quarantining of TB herds. I commented that without addressing the TB problem in deer they will soon be out of cattle in their state, but not rid of TB.”

Participants in the conference were reminded that the comments on USDA’s new NAIS Business Plan must be submitted by April 15, 2008. Comments may be e-mailed to animalidcomments@aphis.usda.gov.

Fox said it is important for producer organizations to continue to be involved in animal id discussions. “Producers are fortunate that SDSGA and R-CALF USA take part in conferences such as these to ensure that the independent producer’s voice is heard.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 20, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

SD Stockgrowers Honor Reliance Couple

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) presented Jim and Gay Murphy, Reliance, S.D., with the “Workhorse Award” on Monday, January 29, 2008, at the Black Hills Stock Show.

According to SDSGA President Larry Nelson, Buffalo , S.D. , the organization honors just one member or couple each year at the Black Hills Stock Show – someone who had gone above and beyond to make an impact on the organization and the industry.

“I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the Workhorse Award than Jim and his wife Gay. They are the sort of unsung heroes that make an organization like the Stockgrowers successful. Jim one of the most reliable people I know – he does what needs to be done without being asked, and without expecting any sort of recognition. Jim’s always got solid, common sense advice that just makes sense. Without guys like him, you just don’t have an organization,” said Larry. “And Gay has been supportive of the cattle industry, the Stockgrowers and Jim’s involvement every step of the way. Their devotion to the Stockgrowers has certainly been a team effort.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 15, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

SD Stockgrowers and R-CALF Raise Over $18,000 at BH Stock Show

Once again, the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) and R-CALF USA received generous donations at the Black Hills Stock Show.

According to SDSGA Vice President Kenny Fox, Belvidere , S.D. , over $5,400 was raised for SDSGA and over $13,000 for R-CALF USA during the 10-day event. “The Stockgrower and R-CALF booth at the Black Hills Stock Show is always one of the busiest spots at the trade show. Folks love to stop by and visit to catch up on the industry, and most of them leave a check before they go,” said Fox.

Fox said the Stockgrowers and R-CALF appreciate the many volunteers who helped at the booth. “As in years past, we are grateful to the folks who take the time to sit at the booth and handle donations and answer questions – we wouldn’t be able to keep the booth open without them.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 14, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Encourage Cattle Producers to Attend OTM Hearing

The South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) encourages cattle producers to show up for a hearing regarding USDA’s “Over-30-Month” (OTM) rule, which will be held at 9:00 am CST at 400 South Phillips Avenue, Sioux Falls, S.D., Tuesday, February 19, 2008.

According to SDSGA Executive Director Margaret Nachtigall, Rapid City , S.D. , the District Court hearing is in response to R-CALF USA ’s request for a preliminary injunction against USDA’s OTM Rule.

Nachtigall said that SDSGA and R-CALF USA joined five other organizations and four indivuduals to request the preliminary injunction. The individual plaintiffs, Herman Schumacher, Robert Mack, Ernie Mertz and Wayne Nelson are all SDSGA members.

“This will be a great opportunity for cattle producers to listen to arguments surrounding the issue of Canadian cattle and beef being permitted to enter this country,” said Nachtigall.

Nachtigall said that USDA recently published a different rule regarding the importation of beef products that contradicts their alleged reasoning for the OTM rule. “Our argument against the OTM rule keeps getting stronger as USDA continues to put out conflicting statements and rules about health and safety standards of cattle and beef imports.”

Nachtigall said that South Dakota producers have been strong supporters of the injunction against the OTM rule. “Over $95,000 has been raised in South Dakota , as of press time, to support the suit.”

For more information about USDA’s conflicting rules, please view the R-CALF USA news release included.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 8, 2008

For more information contact Margaret Nachtigall at:

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

www.southdakotastockgrowers.org

S.D. Stockgrowers Pleased, Animal ID Bill Advances

Members of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA) are encouraged by the statewide support for HB 1305, a bill to prevent the state of South Dakota from participating in the National Animal Identification System (NAIS).

According to SDSGA Vice President Kenny Fox, Belvidere , S.D. , the 8-5 approval vote bill by the S.D. House Ag and Natural Resources Committee signifies serious concern with NAIS.

“Clearly our legislators realize that animal identification should be a personal decision for producers, not something that the state government forces on us,” said Fox. “We appreciate Representatives Brunner, DeVries, Gassman, Hargens, Halverson, Howie, Jerke, and Sigdestad for supporting the bill.”

But, the work has just begun, said Fox. “I hope every producer in the state calls their representative over the weekend to ask for a ‘yes’ vote on HB 1305 when it comes before the full House of Representatives next week.”

Fox said that earlier this week SDSGA members contacted House Ag Committee members to urge their support for the bill. “Stockgrowers from across the state called and sent e-mails, telling their personal stories and explaining their concern with NAIS. Now we need to do that again, but we need to contact every member of the House of Representatives.

The Black Hills Angus Association, Dakota Rural Action, Farmers Union, the S.D. Association of County Commissioners, the S.D. Livestock Auction Markets Association and the S.D. Chapter of Women Involved in Farm Economics also testified in favor of the bill. “Obviously the ag community sees NAIS as a threat,” said Fox.

According to Fox, HB 1305 would prohibit the state of South Dakota from taking part in NAIS, but it would not stop any individual producer from participating if he or she chooses. Additionally, the state veterinarian will have the freedom to deal with animal disease just as always. The bill states, ‘Nothing in this Act prohibits the state from establishing or participating in disease control programs specifically designed to address a known disease in a specific species of livestock.’

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