Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Award Date

1968

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Economics

Abstract

The basic economic activity in South Dakota is agriculture. Therefore, it is essential to the economic position of the state that information is made available which can serve as a guide in developing the agricultural industries within the state. The purpose of this study is to provide such information to the cattle feeding and beef slaughtering industries. Livestock data indicate that a large proportion of the cattle produced in South Dakota is shipped out of the state for fattening and slaughter. Data also indicate that the state is an exporter of feed grains. It seems that if these feeder cattle and feed grains were retained within the state, South Dakota would have available potential resources to expand its beef industry. Studies have shown that there are markets available for dressed beef and slaughter cattle from South Dakota. These studies also indicate that South Dakota has a comparative advantage in supplying these markets. Another study concludes that the structure of shipping. Patterns for beef from surplus regions to deficit regions is quite stable. This means that the probability that South Dakota will lose its comparative advantage is slight. Also, predictions on the expansion of beef production and the expected growth of feedlots for beef, shown in Figures 1-1 and 1-2 respectively; suggest that cattle feeding should increase in South Dakota. Given this information, along with favorable Jong-term demand prospects for beef, it becomes apparent that the cattle feeding, and beef slaughtering industries in the state are operating far below their potential production. The question which arises is, how can these industries be more fully developed?

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Dakota

Format

application/pdf

Publisher

South Dakota State University

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