Producers
Livestock
Livestock production is an important part of the agriculture industry in our state. Of the $17.8 billion impact agriculture has on the state’s economy, livestock production makes up $5.7 billion.
The continued health of the livestock industry is a key demand factor for South Dakota corn. Some statistics to note:
- 4.40 million acres of corn were planted in South Dakota in 2005.
- The 2004 corn crop averaged 130 bushels per acre, the highest ever recorded.
- There are 3.75 million of cattle in South Dakota on 18,000 ranches and farms.
- The typical beef feedlot contains 210 head of cattle.
- A 1,000-head beef feedlot operating at 85% capacity will use 113,000 bushels of corn per year.
- A 700-cow dairy will use 80,000 bushels of corn and 4,500 tons of corn silage per year.
From “Livestock Development in South Dakota” South Dakota State University, College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, Agricultural Experiment Station/Cooperative Extension Service
It is the goal of SDCGA to provide support to issues within the livestock industry that directly impact the corn grower.
Growing South Dakota’s livestock industry and decreasing the amount of cattle we send out of state will help ensure a strong demand for corn, as well as processed corn and co-products.