The partial government shutdown is impacting those trying to buy and sell cattle. South Dakota Stock Growers Association President Gary Deering says despite some Farm Service Agency offices re-opening for a few days to handle loans and tax documents, some checks needing FSA authorization aren’t getting signed following cattle sales and can’t be cashed or deposited.

He says besides those selling cattle, buyers are also being affected.

Deering says what’s difficult is there doesn’t seem to be any quick end to the government shutdown.

Deering says they’ve been working with NRCS officials who are still on the job to contact FSA officials if a producer needs a check signed. About half of the nation’s FSA offices have temporarily reopened. They were open last Thursday and Friday and will be open Tuesday.