About Us
Origins
Founded in 1917 at the request of the U.S. Forest Service, the original intent of our organization was to advise and collaborate with the Forest Service on range management and grazing issues. While still operating in this capacity today, the Spearfish Livestock Association, also works closely with the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks on a myriad of issues.
Our Members
The Spearfish Livestock Association is comprised of grazing permittees on the Black Hills National Forest. The majority of these producers operate on private land adjacent to the Black Hills during the nine months of the year when cattle are not on the National Forest.
Our Mission
Being tasked with caring for our shared public lands, as well as the care of our own private lands, is a privilege and responsibility that the membership of the SLA takes very seriously. As agrarians, our livelihood depends on our ability to sustainably manage our natural resources. The membership of the SLA fully recognizes that public lands belong to all of us and that the National Forest system should be managed for multiple use.