South Dakota Stockgrowers meet with U.S. Forest Service Chief

Members of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association met with U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz in Wall on August 20, 2026, to discuss grazing program issues. The meeting included permit holders from the Buffalo Gap National Grassland.

Discussions focused on several key management concerns, including prairie dog encroachment into allotments, the maintenance of water lines, and general grazing program administration. Participants emphasized the importance of coordinating efforts between permittees and the Forest Service, particularly regarding the protocols for using chemicals to control prairie dog spread.

Representatives noted the meeting was constructive, with Chief Schultz highlighting the value of livestock permittees and the necessity of cooperative, common-sense solutions for on-the-ground land management.