Gov. Rhoden Signs Executive Order to Increase Flexibility for Hay Hauling

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 16, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Signs Executive Order to Increase Flexibility for Hay Hauling

PIERRE, S.D. - Today, Governor Larry Rhoden signed Executive Order 2026-08 to assist agriculture producers during this drought emergency by easing transportation restrictions.

"South Dakota's ranchers have always weathered difficult seasons with grit and determination," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "These dry conditions have certainly posed great challenges for our producers, and this Executive Order will ease some of the burden. My administration will continue to support them as they work hard to feed our state and nation."

Nearly 83% percent of our state is suffering from abnormally dry or moderate to extreme drought conditions observed on farm and ranch land throughout the entire state. As drought conditions continue to negatively impact feed availability for livestock across South Dakota, this order will increase access to hay for farmers and ranchers.

Under statute, hay haulers are typically only allowed to move hay a half-hour before sunrise and a half-hour after sunset. The Order extends the timeframe that hay haulers may move hay to 2 hours before sunrise and 2 hours after sunset with proper safety precautions. The order also authorizes producers to travel statewide without a commercial driver's license (CDL) to ease transport of feed in the drought-stricken area. The producer exemption for CDL's is normally limited to 150 miles.

The Order authorized the extended hours for oversized hay haulers who have a permit. These haulers must be properly equipped with warning lights, and they cannot run overweight. Permits are available to allow oversize movement of hay up to 12 feet wide and to extend the time allowed for movement of vehicles from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m., provided the load has reflectorized or lighted oversize load signs on the front and back of the vehicle(s). The permits are free and available by contacting the South Dakota Highway Patrol Permitting Office at 605-698-3925.

Earlier this spring, Governor Rhoden activated the state Drought Task Force to monitor drought conditions across South Dakota and be available to quickly respond to emergencies like this. The Drought Task Force endorsed these waivers at their meeting today when presented by the Governor's Office and the Department of Agricultural and Natural Resources.

Resources are available for producers in need of hay. South Dakota State University (SDSU) helps producers get connected to suppliers and maintains a feed and forage finder Facebook group. You can find that page here. SDSU also provides free forage testing for nitrate levels. You can find more information about those services here.

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