The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) reminds producers who have lost livestock during the recent blizzard to document losses. Proper documentation is critical to ensure processing of potential claims.
“This early season, record setting blizzard is devastating to our producers and our thoughts are with them,” said Secretary of Agriculture Lucas Lentsch. “We are working to coordinate with ag industry stakeholders to establish and execute a response plan.”
SDDA is working closely with the Office of Emergency Management, Animal Industry Board, Brand Board and Governor’s Office on recovery efforts.
Producers should document all livestock losses with pictures, vaccination and hauling receipts, or any other records for possible future use in disaster relief programs. Third-party verification of losses is recommended. If you have questions regarding livestock identification, please contact the South Dakota Brand Board at 605.773.3324.
Affected producers should contact their local county emergency manager listed below.
Bennett County: Jeff Siscoe, 605.685.5994
Butte County: Martha Wierzbicki, 605.569.2766
Corson County: Brad Schell, 605.273.4481
Custer County: Mike Carter, 605.673.8152
Fall River County: Frank Maynard, 605.745.7562
Haakon County: Lola Roseth, 605.567.3515
Harding County: Kathy Glines, 605.375.3313
Jackson County: Jackie Stilwell, 605.488.0334
Jones County: Angie Kinsley, 605.669.7101
Lawrence County: Paul Thomson, 605.578.2122
Meade County: Angella Sutton, 605.347.7623
Mellette County: Karen O’Brien, 605.259.3371
Pennington County: Dustin Willett, 605.394.2185
Perkins County: Kelly Serr, 605.244.5243
Shannon County: Frank Maynard, 605.745.7562
Todd County: Kara Walking, 605.429.3246
Ziebach County: Mike Burgee, 605.365.5129
The South Dakota Animal Industry Board (AIB) will be coordinating disposal of livestock carcasses. Brand Board inspectors will be involved in identifying livestock and livestock carcasses.
For carcass disposal information, contact the AIB at 605.773.3321.
Individuals experiencing disaster-related stress should contact a local community health provider or call Youth and Family Services in Rapid City at 605.342.4195 or 605.342.4870.
