PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem’s unwavering commitment to expanding South Dakota’s dairy industry has yielded remarkable growth, as confirmed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in January 2024.
The state’s dairy cow count has surged to 208,000, a staggering 70.5% increase since 2019. Governor Noem expressed pride in the dedication of South Dakota farmers and ranchers, citing their passion as a driving force behind the thriving dairy sector. Over the past 12 years, the state’s dairy herd has more than doubled, escalating from 90,000 to the current 208,000.
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This expansion contributes significantly to the state’s economy, with an annual economic impact of nearly $4 billion from the additional 118,000 cows. Commissioner Chris Schilken highlights South Dakota’s leadership in the dairy industry, emphasizing its welcoming approach that attracts producers nationwide, solidifying the state’s position as a flourishing hub for dairy commerce.
