RAPID CITY, S.D.(KOTA)- A long summer has left South Dakota cattle ranchers reeling, with some multi-generational producers being forced out of the industry entirely.

South Dakota Stockgrowers Association executive director James Halverson said a few policy items could help the industry find balance moving forward.

Despite this, some of the issues facing producers are entirely out of human hands.

Halverson said it’s always a good time to buy local if you can.

Halverson encouraged South Dakotans to express support for local cattle producers to elected officials, reminding “food security is national security.”