Take a drive through the country anywhere in South Dakota. Chances are, you won't have to drive far to see cattle. Depending on where you're at, you might see a LOT of cattle.

So how many cattle are in South Dakota? Depending on the time of year, it could be as high as 4 Million. Our state population is only 886,600 as of 2021. When you hear the expression that we have more cows than people, when it comes to South Dakota that's exactly right!

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Used with Permission-Robin Bickel
Used with Permission-Robin Bickel
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In the most recent overview from the USDA, www.nass.usda.gov;

Cattle, Cows, Beef - Inventory ( First of Jan. 2023 )1,533,000
Cattle, Cows, Milk - Inventory ( First of Jan. 2023 )187,000
Cattle, Incl Calves - Inventory ( First of Jan. 2023 )3,550,000

The numbers are staggering but if you take your drive a little further to the west you see more and more and MORE cattle. West River you'll see more cattle grazing. East River, you'll see cow-calf pairs out on grass already but many more in feed lots.

Used with Permission-Robin Bickel
Used with Permission-Robin Bickel
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The saying goes, Beef, it's what's for dinner. Here in South Dakota its hugely responsible for many of the dollars that filter into the system. Producers need tractors and equipment for the farm and ranch and vehicles as well.

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Next time you order a burger or pick up a nice steak for dinner, remember your producer friends. And the next time you see them, give them a high five and thank them for dinner!

10 Smallest Towns in South Dakota

South Dakota is loaded with small towns in every corner of the state. But where are the smallest towns in the Mount Rushmore state? According to the latest census data, here are the ten smallest towns in all of South Dakota.

 

 

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