Rep. Kristi Noem today applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for offering greater flexibility to ranchers as the drought worsens across South Dakota. More specifically, the USDA announced it will allow certain CRP contract holders to donate their hay to livestock producers in drought-stricken counties. Additionally, the agency opened CRP lands to grazing for any county that lies within 150 miles of a county already approved for emergency grazing.
“As South Dakota’s drought conditions continue to expand and worsen, ranchers need to be given as much flexibility as possible,” said Noem. “I’ve been in close contact with Secretary Perdue about the conditions and the effects the drought has had on South Dakota producers. I’m hopeful today’s announcement will offer many some added relief.”
According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor data, 90 percent of South Dakota is experiencing drought to some degree, including areas in every county.