Beef Industry Fact Sheet
South Dakota Facts “Agriculture is the largest contributor to the South Dakota economy and the beef industry is one of the major driving forces behind our economy.”
- $3.72 billion impact to state’s economy which represents more than 6% of the state’s entire economic output.
- Over 15,000 beef producers
- 3.7 million head of beef cattle
- Approximately 4.6 head of cattle for every citizen in the state
- Ranks 8th in the Nation in total cattle and calves
United States Facts “Beef cattle production represents the largest segment of American Agriculture.”
- Production of meat animals responsible for $66 billion to economy
- Over 1 million beef producers in the United States
- 94 million head of beef cattle
- 59.9 pounds per capita consumption of beef
- 97% of farms are family operations
Industry Beef Quality Assurance
The South Dakota BQA/CMP program was initiated by beef industry participants to add value to our cattle by assuring our production practices adhere to the highest quality standards. It is the intention of the BQA/CMP Steering Committee that this review will be conducted annually with certified producers in order to strengthen our voluntary program while providing high quality beef that meets consumer demand.
As beef producers, we have a great responsibility. We are charged with producing high-quality beef at an affordable cost. Most Producers are dedicated to doing this in the safest, most humane way possible. For more than ten years the BQA/CMP program in South Dakota has been helping producers reach those goals.
For more information contact:
435 Chapelle St.
Pierre, SD 57501
email: BQA Coordinator
phone: 605-945-2333
fax: 605-224-2745