Gov. Larry Rhoden has signed Executive Order 2026-08, temporarily easing transportation restrictions to help South Dakota farmers and ranchers cope with worsening drought conditions across the state.
With nearly 83% of South Dakota experiencing abnormally dry to extreme drought conditions, the order is designed to improve access to hay and livestock feed. It extends permitted travel times for oversized hay haulers from 30 minutes before sunrise and after sunset to two hours before sunrise and two hours after sunset, provided safety requirements are met.
The order also allows agricultural producers to transport feed statewide without a commercial driver’s license, expanding an exemption that is normally limited to a 150-mile radius.
Oversized hay haulers with permits may operate from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. and transport loads up to 12 feet wide. Free permits are available through the South Dakota Highway Patrol Permitting Office.
The move was endorsed by the state Drought Task Force, which Rhoden activated earlier this year to monitor drought conditions and coordinate emergency responses. State officials are also directing producers to resources available through South Dakota State University, including hay supplier connections and free forage nitrate testing.
Comments