South Dakota governor proclaims May ‘Beef Month’

With recovery underway for South Dakota’s cattle industry from the devastating October blizzard, South Dakota governor Dennis Daugaard signed a proclamation on Monday, April 28, declaring May “Beef Month.”

Daugaard signed the proclamation to show his support for the state’s beef industry and ranchers.

“This industry plays a vital role for the state’s economy,” said Daugaard. “After last year’s terrible storm, South Dakotans were reminded of the risks our ranchers face. We respect their resilience and look forward to their continuing recovery.”

Secretary of agriculture Lucas Lentsch also attended the signing in support of the state’s beef industry.

“Cattle producers have always been a large part of our agricultural sector and our rural way of life,” said Lentsch. “This particular Beef Month is special in recognizing our West River ranchers who persevered through last year’s storm.”

Beef Month observance began more than 40 years ago and recognizes one of the state’s largest economic sectors. South Dakota has more than four cattle per person in the state and ranks sixth nationally in cattle and calf production.

–S.D. Dept. of Agriculture