USDA and Homeland Security End Property Border Suit Against South Dakota Ranchers

Agency Partners Cancel a Suit over 25 Acres of Forest Service Land

Today, federal and state leaders joined with South Dakota ranchers, the Maude family, as criminal charges against them were dropped. USCA President Tupper commented on today’s press conference:  

“Today, on the steps of the Department of Agriculture’s Whitten Building, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins shared the story of the Maude family. Charles and Heather Maude were charged with theft of federal property several years ago over a border dispute on 25 acres of Forest Service land. What should have been reasonable mediation turned into a legal battle with the federal government targeting this family. Today, Secretary Rollins expressed her disappointment in how it was handled and righted the wrong,” said President Justin Tupper. 

Secretary Rollins stressed the importance of the issue and committed the Department to working with farmers and ranchers to find solutions when conflicts like these arise. USCA submitted letters of support for the Maude family to USDA and legislative offices when this issue first arose and will continue to offer assistance to any USCA members facing similar challenges.  

In attendance at today’s press conference, in addition to the Maude family, were the following: USDA Secretary Rollins, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden, Senator Mike Rounds (SD), Representative Harriet Hageman (WY), and Representative Dusty Johnson (SD).