Agriculture

South Dakota legislators are advancing a bill requiring lab-grown meat to be labeled.

The plant that produces the red-wax covered cheeses in Brookings is set to expand its facility in the spring.

Potential tariffs and a shakeup in federal government concerns many farmers and ranchers. The national debate was brought to South Dakota at the recent annual Farmer’s Union conference. Speakers addressed the new administration and a growing need for produce.

Farmers and ranchers rely on atmospheric science to prepare for their next growing season. Scientists say South Dakota’s farmers and ranchers can expect multiple storms and drought in the forecast next year.

The Fence Line Fairness Act would create a committee of appointed producers to mediate disputes between the United States Forest Service and landowners.

The USDA is expanding efforts to track bird flu in dairy cattle by testing milk. The virus has already been confirmed in several South Dakota dairy herds.

Bovine tuberculosis has been confirmed in South Dakota for the first time since 2021.

Governor Kristi Noem will address several competing factors in her annual state budget address. The address could be her last. Noem must outline how she will fund state government while balancing one high priced ticket item when revenues are coming in lower than projected. There's also growing pressure for property tax relief.

Two South Dakota agriculture organizations are watching potential upcoming tariffs closely. President-elect Donald Trump is vowing tariffs on goods imported into the country. Both groups remember Trump’s trade war during his first administration.

According to the latest USDA report, South Dakota’s crop harvest is progressing at a solid pace. That’s despite drought-like conditions that persisted for some farmers.