Hot, dry summer could impact West River agriculture industry

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) - An expected hot and dry summer could take a toll on ranchers and farmers in South Dakota.

Saint Onge Livestock owner Justin Tupper says hot and dry conditions can have an impact on livestock.

This can lead to a lack of weight gain for the animals due to stock ponds drying up. The conditions can also impact the soil where the grass hardens up and forces ranchers and farmers to move their livestock to either different grazing areas or sell cattle a lot sooner.

Tupper believes selling livestock sooner is a disadvantage because a lower weight means a smaller profit.

“Cattle prices are at historic highs which is good but if you don’t have the weight or the numbers to sell when we’re in a good time that can be very difficult from the bottom line for sure,” Tupper said.

He says hot and dry conditions can also impact water irrigation systems and decrease hay supply. This then leads to an increase in hay prices eventually impacting the bottom line.

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