South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden on July 20 signed Executive Order 2026-08 to assist agriculture producers during this drought emergency by easing transportation restrictions.
Nearly 83% of the state is suffering from abnormally dry or moderate to extreme drought conditions observed on farm and ranch land throughout the entire state. As drought conditions continue to negatively impact feed availability for livestock across South Dakota, this order will increase access to hay for farmers and ranchers.
Under statute, hay haulers are typically only allowed to move hay a halfhour before sunrise and a half-hour after sunset. The order extends the timeframe that hay haulers may move hay to 2 hours before sunrise and two hours after sunset with proper safety precautions.
PHOTO: A herd of cattle grazing in South Dakota. (iStock │ #184885392 – RiverNorthPhotography)
