The partial government shutdown is impacting those trying to buy and sell cattle. Despite some FSA offices re-opening for a few days to handle loans and tax documents some checks needing FSA authorization aren’t getting signed following cattle sales. South Dakota Stock Growers Association President Gary Deering (of Hereford) says some ranchers who have an FSA loan need an agent to co-sign the check before it can be cashed or deposited.
He says besides those selling cattle, buyers are being affected too.
Deering says there doesn’t seem to be any quick end to the government shutdown.
Deering says they’ve been working with NRCS officials who are still on the job in order to contact FSA officials if a producer needs a check signed. About half of the nation’s Farm Service Agency offices have temporarily reopened to handle loans and tax documents. They were open last Thursday and Friday and will be open Tuesday.
(WNAX)