The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association will meet for ongoing education and policy development
DEADWOOD, S.D. – Educating cattle people in the industry on everything from conservation to cybersecurity while developing policy for the upcoming South Dakota legislative session is the focus of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association (SDCA) Annual Convention & Trade Show.
Set for December 2-3, 2025 at The Lodge in Deadwood, this year’s event will deliver practical solutions to improve operations and bottom lines, said SDCA President Warren Symens, a fourth-generation farmer, seedstock producer and cattle feeder from Amherst, S.D., in Marshall County.
Kaitlynn Glover, Executive Director of the Public Lands Council, will deliver the Land and Legacy luncheon keynote on Mon., December 2nd followed by AgSpire’s Ranching for the Future workshop. Attendees will also hear a market update by CattleFax, and learn research backed strategies to boost herd efficiency and profitability from livestock experts and producers.
Day two highlights producer education and the integration of modern technology. Keynote Speaker Nevil Speer will share updates on industry trends, followed by South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension presentations on precision livestock technology such as electronic identification, virtual fencing, and cybersecurity. SDSU Extension will also bring their education trailer, giving ranchers a hands-on experience of available technology that is shaping the future of cattle production.
The event concludes with the First Dakota’s Last Call Saloon, recognition of the 2025 Cattleman of the Year and Friend of SDCA, and celebration of the next generation of industry leaders as SDCA announces the second class of the Cattlemen’s Leadership Academy.
For more information regarding the 2025 Convention and Trade Show visit SDCA online, click on the ‘Special Events & Awards’ tab, and then click on ‘Annual Convention and Trade Show’ or contact Lorrin Naasz, Director of Communications at lnaasz@sdcattlemen.org
