South Dakota Stock grower’s Association Regional Vice President Les Shaw of White Owl testified before the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee at their drought forum. He says Congressman Dusty Johnson asked him to weigh in with their group. He says the main concern he pointed out to lawmakers during drought is ranchers need for water for their livestock.
He says timeliness is critical when the government decides whether or not to release CRP acres for grazing.
Shaw says he told the committee that the recent water program they just released is one of the most important steps they can take to help producers deal with drought like conditions.
Shaw who ranches near White Owl in Western South Dakota says his pastures are looking bleak at this time. He said last Thursday they did get six tenths of an inch of rain which was badly needed but more is definitely needed.
