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Dear Dairy Producer:
The dairy industry has always been an important component of our
state's #1 industry - Agriculture. In 2002 agriculture generated $16.8
billion of economic activity on our state. The dairy sector is a
substantial contributor to that figure through both agricultural
production (livestock and grains) and agricultural support (agricultural
services, machinery, supplies food processing).
The enthusiasm for dairying has been restored as our dairy farmers, crop
and forage farmers, and communities realize the positive advantages
gained in the various segments of the dairy infrastructure, from the
operation itself to the milk processors.
South Dakota offers our producers an excellent, competitive milk price.
Modernization and expansion of our processing facilities has increased
the capacity for milk production in our region. Our state also offers
an abundant supply of quality forages, grains and by-product feeds.
Likewise, our neighboring states provide a reliable source of feed
stuffs. Land value, as well as cropland and pastureland rent rates,
have remained very reasonable. Excellent quality of life, educational
opportunities and recreational activities are just a few of the
advantages our South Dakota families realize.
Dairy producers, whether existing, start-up or relocated, can enjoy
profitable opportunities in South Dakota. We welcome your interest in
the South Dakota Dairy industry. I encourage you to review the dairy, agricultural, financial and general state information in
this site. You can also visit our
internet site at
www.state.sd.us/doa/
for a host of agricultural information. Finally, I invite you to contact our staff for
assistance with any questions or additional information regarding our
dairy industry.
Best regards,
Bill Even
South Dakota Secretary of Agriculture |
