11 Percent Of South Dakota Is Considered Under "Extreme" Conditions SIOUX FALLS, S.D.
With the harshest dry conditions in West River, Sioux Falls Regional Livestock owner David Minor said it’s having a residual effect on their auctions.
“We’re getting extra numbers right now because of the drought,” said Minor.
Most of their visitors, however, come for further away.
“There are some of these cattle that are coming a long distance that we wouldn’t have had a chance at them but we’re getting a chance because they’re opting to haul them the distance and hopefully getting into an area where there is moisture and feed supplies,” said Minor.
Pudwill said higher fixed costs make this drought more difficult than years past.
He said the dry conditions are taking about $200-300 off each head.
Just hope…pray…is all you can do,” said Pudwill.
Pudwill said most farmers and ranchers are selling their older cattle to keep the heart of their herd intact.
On Wednesday, the USDA authorized the release of CRP land in South Dakota, allowing emergency hay production to help with the livestock situation.