SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Some relief is reaching South Dakota farmers and ranchers as the USDA reopens a few thousand county offices across the country amid the ongoing government shutdown.

Among them is the Bon Homme County Farm Service Agency (FSA), a key resource for farmers needing disaster assistance, loans, and payments. The closures had delayed cash flow for many, since government approval is required to process certain crop payments.

Farmers say the shutdown also stalled critical reports used to track harvest progress and market trends.

While USDA staff at reopened offices will receive pay, many other federal workers remain without paychecks as the shutdown continues.

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