Ranchers from across the state are meeting in Rapid City this week for the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Annual Convention at the DoubleTree by Hilton.
The three-day event began Monday and continues through Wednesday, featuring speakers, networking opportunities, and discussions on issues affecting the livestock industry.
Among the top concerns raised by members are the use of RFID cattle identification tags and questions about how the collected data is stored and who has access to it. Executive Director Doris Lauing said producers remain concerned about privacy and increased government oversight.
Drought conditions were also a major topic of discussion. Lauing said limited forage production has forced many ranchers to purchase hay from long distances at significantly higher prices, increasing operating costs.
Association leaders say the convention provides an important forum for producers to share concerns, learn from one another, and help guide the organization’s advocacy efforts on behalf of South Dakota ranchers.
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