State of Emergency Declared in South Dakota Over Drought

South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard (do-guard) has declared a statewide emergency because of the ongoing drought conditions in the state. As part of the State of Emergency, the state will ease haying and transportation restrictions to assist agriculture producers. The Governor says the drought has hurt hay production in much of the state, making producers scramble to keep livestock fed. Effective immediately, farmers and ranchers across the state may cut and bale state highway ditches adjacent to their property. South Dakota and North Dakota farmers and ranchers have been struggling with drought conditions this season, as some are forced to sell their herds of cattle. The U.S. Drought Monitor shows prolonged drought conditions, included severe drought, in parts of both states, along with parts of Montana and northern Minnesota.