South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association (SDCA) President Warren Symens of Amherst recently traveled to the nation’s capital as part of an SDCA delegation advocating for the state’s cattle producers. The trip, organized largely by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), provided an opportunity for industry leaders to meet with national policymakers on key issues affecting ranchers.
“This was a valuable trip,” Symens said. “Our South Dakota representatives make a strong effort to meet with their constituents, even during busy times.”
Symens, now in his second year as SDCA president, has been involved with the organization for nearly a decade, previously serving as vice president and a board member. A lifelong cattleman, he got his start in the industry before age 12 when he acquired his first calves. His passion for the industry and belief in the importance of producer advocacy led him to become active in SDCA.
“If you’re going to be in this business, you need to have a voice,” Symens said. “If you’re not there being that voice, someone is going to try to do it for you.”
During the D.C. visit, Symens was joined by SDCA Vice President Craig Bieber and Director Kory Bierle. The group met with NCBA policy experts and South Dakota’s congressional delegation, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Sen. Mike Rounds, and Rep. Dusty Johnson. Discussions covered a range of issues critical to cattle producers, such as drought relief, livestock programs, tax policies, cattle markets, trade, and disease traceability.
Among the key topics addressed were:
• Ensuring continued funding for the Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to safeguard animal health and prevent disease outbreaks across borders.
• Supporting the permanence of the 2017 tax cuts, which benefit small businesses.
• Eliminating the death tax, which can pose financial challenges for multi-generational ranching operations.
• Strengthening oversight of lab-grown meat, including labeling regulations to ensure standards as stringent as those applied to beef products.
The SDCA, a grassroots organization with 16 affiliates across five regions, plays a crucial role in advocating for South Dakota’s cattle industry at local, state, and national levels. As an affiliate of the NCBA, SDCA ensures that South Dakota producers have representation in national decision-making processes.
Symens encourages local cattle producers to engage with the industry and the association, emphasizing the importance of advocacy and active participation. Several regional round-ups will be held throughout the summer, open to both members and non-members.
“If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu,” Symens said, reinforcing the need for producers to take an active role in shaping policies that impact their livelihoods. Those interested in learning more about SDCA or getting involved can reach out to him directly.
